Henkel has set a new strategic course for its corporate venture capital activities in the consumer goods business, after the company generated a second €150 million fund earlier this year. The company’s venturing unit–Henkel dx Ventures–partners with start-ups for co-innovation, and invests in ventures globally in two defined focus areas: digital commerce and sustainability.

“Entrepreneurs and Henkel’s experts can form a powerful combination. With Henkel dx Ventures, we aim at strengthening these ties and creating a unique innovation force. We’re here to foster progress in business and technology. Digital commerce and sustainability–our core investment areas–are among the most exciting and promising fields to come. Together, we will drive the future of commerce and make Henkel a champion in the digital world“, said Michael Nilles, chief Digital and Information officer at Henkel and chair at Henkel dx Ventures.

Henkel dx Ventures evaluates and manages equity investments and joint development projects with start-ups. Its aim is to explore new technologies, applications, and business models in areas of strategic interest to Henkel. The company says start-ups can benefit from collaboration with Henkel by gaining access to its ecosystem of tech experts and scientists, sharing knowledge, and its network

“We are opening a new chapter with Henkel dx Ventures. Our strength lies in our team and its strong network. While we are closely connected to the global Henkel business, we are also part of a thriving ecosystem and start-up scene. Here, we bring together founders, entrepreneurs, and industry experts”, said Marc Thom, corporate vice president, and head of Henkel dx Ventures. “I am convinced that in a networked economy, success comes from collaboration. And it is our fundamental belief that investments and partnership must go hand in hand.”

Digital Commerce

As consumer preferences and expectations continue to shift towards 24/7, omnichannel interaction with all kinds of devices, Henkel says it is necessary to adapt to the era of online shopping. Henkel plans to increase its digital commerce presence in response to increasing consumer interest in features like personalization of products and experiences, and easy-to-access reselling platforms. Henkel dx Ventures is particularly interested in social commerce, web 3.0, peer-to-peer platforms, AdTech, and MarTech.

Sustainability

Henkel’s 2030+ Sustainability Ambition Framework aims for a circular and net-zero carbon future by transforming its business products and raw materials. Henkel dx Ventures says it is looking for founders with a holistic view of the challenges the world is facing. Particular areas of interest include climate and sustainable operations (e.g. CO2 utilization, value chain transparency, CO2 footprint and life cycle assessments), circular economy and packaging (e.g. synthetic materials, plastic avoidance, recyclability, and reusability), as well as nature and biodiversity (e.g. renewable raw materials, palm oil alternatives, and sustainable formulations).

For more information, visit: www.henkel.com.