Solve real-world innovation challenges with leading companies
The Corporate Innovation Project (CIP) is your opportunity to go beyond theory and tackle real-world business challenges. As part of your Master in Innovation and Entrepreneurship (MIE) curriculum, you’ll work in a small, diverse team to consult for a corporate partner, develop venture ideas, and drive innovation from within.
In your second year at ESMT Berlin, you will apply your expertise, creativity, and problem-solving skills to high-impact projects in areas like corporate venture capital, innovation strategy, and startup collaboration.
The CIP is delivered by Vali Berlin, ESMT’s entrepreneurship hub, which connects students with corporate partners, startup founders, and investors. With guidance from ESMT faculty and industry experts, you’ll gain hands-on experience, refine your strategic thinking, and develop real solutions that shape the future of business.
Your learning journey
The CIP takes you through a step-by-step process to tackle corporate innovation challenges.
From identifying market opportunities to crafting strategies and bringing ideas to life, you’ll develop practical solutions with real impact.
Analyze: Understand the business & market
- Competitor analysis & industry trends
- Emerging technologies & market shifts
- Customer and user research
Design: Develop an innovation strategy
- Innovation strategy & corporate-startup collaboration
- Organizational design & pricing strategy
- Business model development
Implement: Turn strategy into action
- Corporate venturing & venture capital strategy
- Startup sourcing & partnership frameworks
- Prototype & MVP development
Why participate in the Corporate Innovation Project?
The CIP is more than just a learning experience; it’s a chance to apply your skills, gain industry exposure, and make meaningful connections. From consulting for top companies to building a strong professional network, the CIP equips you with the tools to drive innovation and accelerate your career.
See how top companies innovate
Gain exclusive insights into how leading corporations develop new ventures, collaborate with startups, and drive strategic change.
Work alongside industry professionals to understand their innovation processes, investment strategies, and corporate-startup partnerships. This will prepare you to navigate and lead innovation in any organization.
Gain real consulting experience
Work directly with corporate partners on real-world innovation challenges and apply your expertise to develop actionable solutions.
As a consultant, you’ll tackle strategic problems, conduct market research, and design innovation frameworks that companies can implement. This will help you build confidence, enhance your problem-solving skills, and gain a competitive edge in your career.
Master the skills top employers demand
Build job-ready skills that will help you navigate today’s fast-changing business landscape.
From innovation strategy and venture building to problem-solving and corporate collaboration, you’ll gain practical experience that sets you apart. Whether you’re looking to launch your own startup or drive innovation within a company, these skills will be invaluable in your career.
Build a powerful network of industry leaders
Connect with corporate executives, startup founders, and investors who can shape your future.
The CIP puts you in direct contact with decision-makers and industry experts, giving you the chance to build relationships, gain mentorship, and explore career opportunities. Your network will extend far beyond the MIE program, opening doors in the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Make a lasting impact
Showcase your expertise by presenting your solutions at the CIP final event, where you’ll gain valuable feedback from industry leaders.
This is your chance to demonstrate your strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and leadership skills in front of potential employers, investors, and corporate partners—setting the stage for your next big career move.
About Vali Berlin
Vali Berlin, ESMT's Entrepreneurship Hub, plays a key role in the MIE program, supporting students in their entrepreneurial development while fostering innovation that creates economic, environmental, and social value.
Aligned with ESMT’s mission, Vali helps bridge the gap between business and society through hands-on learning and real-world impact.
