What successful corporate venture capital funds do differently

Abstract

Corporate venture capital is experiencing renewed momentum. Over the past decade, as digital disruption and new technologies have accelerated, CVC activity has grown to record levels and has been rediscovered as a way for large companies to stay close to innovation at the edge of the firm. Today, many large companies are launching venture funds alongside traditional R&D to spot emerging technologies, build startup relationships, and open new growth opportunities. Yet a paradox persists: even as more CVCs are launched with ambition and visibility, many struggle to sustain momentum and quietly fade within a few years. For today’s senior leaders, the question is no longer whether to launch a CVC, but how to keep it alive long enough to matter. This article offers research-backed advice on what successful CVCs do differently.