Toyota Motor Europe, based in Brussels, Belgium, has teamed up with its partners to launch an open call for ambitious startups in the second round of its Toyota Open Labs innovation initiative.
This program is designed to connect innovative startups with Toyota’s business units, helping them scale their groundbreaking ideas and work toward a more sustainable future.
Empowering Startups with a Sustainable Vision
Through this initiative, Toyota seeks startups focused on transforming mobility and promoting sustainability.
By joining Toyota Open Labs, selected startups will collaborate closely with Toyota on their journey to expand and refine their business models.
Six Key Areas of Focus for Startups
The Toyota Open Labs program encourages startups to apply if they align with Toyota’s six strategic focus areas:
- BEV Energy Ecosystem: Innovations in energy transition, including grid balancing, energy management, smart charging, and vehicle-to-grid energy transfer technologies.
- Hydrogen Ecosystem: Solutions advancing the hydrogen economy to support clean energy.
- Carbon Capture and Reduction: Technologies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and supporting Toyota’s environmental goals.
- Circular Economy: Systems for the recovery, recycling, and reuse of vehicles and their components.
- Smart Communities: Mobility solutions like vehicle sharing, subscription models, and the establishment of mobility hubs.
- Mobility for All: Inclusive solutions to address mobility challenges, particularly those faced by an ageing population.
These strategic categories highlight Toyota’s commitment to driving artificial intelligence (AI), education, and inclusivity in the future of mobility.
A Network of Partners and Support for Innovation
The Toyota Open Labs program is backed by key Toyota partners, including Toyota Tsusho Europe (supply-chain and trading division), KINTO Europe (Toyota’s mobility brand), Woven Capital (Toyota’s growth-stage venture fund), and the Toyota Mobility Foundation, a nonprofit entity dedicated to mobility solutions.
Through this network, selected startups gain access to a broad range of resources, mentorship, and guidance on optimizing their business strategies, refining product designs, and tapping into new investment channels.
Prototyping and Market Opportunities
As part of the program, each startup will develop a Proof of Concept and explore market strategies while leveraging Toyota’s ecosystem for potential partnerships.
Additionally, they will have the opportunity to showcase their innovations during the 2025 Demo Day, gaining exposure and feedback to strengthen their market presence.
Application Details and What’s Next
Applications for this upcoming cohort are open until December 20, 2024.
Toyota will notify selected startups by February 2025, with the Demo Day set for September or October 2025.
For more information and to apply, interested startups can visit Toyota Open Labs.
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