
The Scenario
In this age of complexity, uncertainty, and disruptive technologies, established business models are under threat and are becoming less competitive. Industries such as Aerospace, Defence and Security are likely to be highly exposed to future disruption coming from startups or non-traditional players, who are able to react faster to changing customer needs.
The development and availability of digital technology and new methods of communication are transforming the way companies engage with their ecosystem. With the Business Innovation Factory, Leonardo wants to drive this transformation by accelerating and partnering with startups and founders who are determined to make an impact.
With the Leonardo BIF's second international Call for Startups, in 2023, we are looking for innovative Startups with talented founders that are able to improve the Leonardo offering for solutions in the Simulation and Gamification and Networking & Cybersecurity sectors.
Online applications are open until March 24: a six-month acceleration programme to take place at Leonardo's BIF spaces within LVenture Group's Hub in Rome.
The acceleration programme focuses on startup in Pre-Seed/Seed phase having at least a demonstrable Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
During the acceleration programme, the startups will be able to leverage on the strong technical capabilities and know-how of Leonardo experts, on the Group assets such as the HPC (High Performance Computing) on Leonardo Labs, and will have the opportunity to build partnership agreements with Leonardo business unit.
During the acceleration programme, the startups will also have the opportunity to demonstrate their solution by designing and developing a Proof of Concept (PoC) with Leonardo business unit.
Following the Demo Day, Leonardo will select 3 startups for a follow-on investment up to €500k per startup.










BUSINESS INNOVATION FACTORY
The Leonardo Business Innovation Factory aims to accelerate market opportunities into new businesses, supporting the startups to grow and scale.
Leonardo is launching a call for ideas in order to select the 10 startups participating in the Acceleration Programme powered by LVenture Group.
Leonardo is one of the world’s largest players in the Aerospace, Defence and Security sector, in which it develops multi-domain operational capabilities.
Leonardo plays a prominent role in major international strategic programmes and it is a trusted technological partner of governments, Defence Agencies, Institutions and enterprises.
Innovation, continuous research, digital manufacturing and sustainability are the cornerstones of Leonardo’s business worldwide.
Make it Integrated.
Make it Exponential.


The Partner
LVenture Group is a holding company listed on the Italian Stock Exchange, investing in early-stage digital startups. Since 2013, it has managed the startup accelerator, LUISS EnLabs. It powers Leonardo’s Business Innovation Factory, providing ten-years of experience in one of the most relevant venture capital portfolios in Italy and a unique ecosystem of innovators.
The Acceleration Programme
6 months starting from May 29, 2023
The Location
The Hub of LVenture Group is a fully equipped co-working space in Rome. An edgy location for a unique ecosystem, with a network of Corporates, startups, investors and mentors.
The
Deal
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€50k in cash for each Startup entering the Acceleration Programme
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Proof of Concept development with LDO business units, during the programme
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Access to LDO and LVG Networks
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Specialised mentoring and technical support provided by Leonardo experts
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For the 2-3 most deserving Startups, a follow-on investment of up to €500k per startup
The Roadmap
01
Call for Solutions
Applications will be open from 24 Jan 2023 - 24 Mar 2023
02
Selection
Up to 10 projects will be selected to join the Business Innovation Factory.
03
Acceleration
6 months of Acceleration Programme, starting from May 29, 2023
Teams will receive full support from an international team of professionals and mentors on business and technical verticals.


