How should startups partner with corporations? Find out at IBM Connect 2015

Not too long ago, we’d consider a partnership between startups and corporations an unlikely one.

After all, the two entities occupy opposing ends of the spectrum when it comes to their glaringly obvious cultural and operational differences. To a startup, collaborating with a risk-averse large corporation might come across as cramping its style.

If so, why is it that more of these partnerships are happening? More importantly, by avoiding corporations, could you be missing out on a huge opportunity by shying away from unfamiliar ground?

Contrary to the above, a partnership between a large enterprise and a startup isn’t a burden. If anything, it could provide freedom. It frees the nimble and quick-moving startup from its cash-strapped woes, and gives the rigid corporation an avenue to take risks in pursuing other market opportunities.

For startups, the benefits are apparent. On top of gaining access to funds, it can also leverage the corporation’s clout to heighten its visibility and credibility, effectively shortening a process which could easily take a startup years to establish on its own.

By using a corporation’s distribution channels, startups can quickly increase their reach. A successful partnership with a large enterprise serves as solid proof of scalability and could help convince potential partners about the capabilities of your company in the future.

The question, is less about whether corporations and startups should work together, and more if joining hands with a particular organization will benefit your business.

If you’re itching for an answer, you’ll want to catch the exciting panel discussion during IBM Connect featuring Saemin Ahn, managing partner of Rakuten Ventures, Tim Greisinger, managing director at IBM Singapore and Cameron Priest, CEO of TradeGecko. The panel of experts will dive deep into why startups and corporations should join hands to tango, and the best practices for doing so to ensure both parties get the most out of it.

What’s IBM Connect about?

A collaboration between IBM and Tech in Asia, IBM Connect 2015 aims to provide your startup with tips and the knowhow on how to scale at speed.

On top of the panel discussion, the event will see other sessions including a live pitch between six startups, a one-to-one mentorship clinic and other talks – all aimed at helping you grow your business.

IBM Connect 2015 will host several key speakers and 15 VCs, including GREE Ventures, Yello Mobile, and Spaze Ventures.

Make sure you come armed with enough business cards to make the most out of the numerous networking opportunities available!

How do I sign up?

If you’re a founder, CEO, COO, or entrepreneur whose startup has secured at least seed funding and above, we want you.

IBM Connect is free to attend, and you can register your interest via the button below.