Navigating In-Store Innovation: A Dive into Ingenico's StartupIN Program
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Breaking the barriers between startups and in-store commerce, StartupIN aims to integrate cutting-edge innovative solutions to cater to the needs of tomorrow.
Launched in Asia in 2022, Ingenico's StartupIN Program has expanded its horizons beyond regional borders, welcoming startups from across the globe. With a dedicated focus on seamlessly integrating promising commerce solutions into Ingenico’s ecosystem, StartupIN serves as a collaborative ally for early-stage startups venturing into physical in-store environments, bridging the gap between the real and digital worlds through Ingenico’s omnichannel payments and commerce solutions.
Catered to early-to-mid-stage startups, the program acts as a platform for identifying and supporting the growth of new and innovative in-store payments and payments-linked solutions. For startups, participation in the program means a strategic partnership with Ingenico, providing access to its global network, expertise, and exclusive events for mentorship and business development. The partnership accelerates market entry, enhances credibility and visibility, and bolsters their market presence.
Ingenico’s transformative journey to a dynamic point-of-commerce technology provider
Ingenico’s transformation from a hardware-focused point-of-sale organization to a dynamic point-of-commerce technology provider is marked by innovations such as AXIUM, a smart payment platform, along with a comprehensive suite of Managed Services and value-added commerce solutions to support diverse business environments. The transformations underscore Ingenico’s commitment to innovating in in-store payments and is further emphasized through the StartupIN program, where startups leverage Ingenico’s global network and industry expertise to fuel growth and innovation.
Driven by a mission to push boundaries within the payment ecosystem, StartupIN aims to elevate commerce solutions to meet the evolving needs of tomorrow. The goal is clear: to become the go-to destination for in-store innovation, facilitating collaboration, and driving transformative change in the retail landscape.
StartupIN: The in-store commerce specialist
In the Asia Pacific region, around half of retailers anticipate a portion of online spending moving towards brick-and-mortar stores, with 42% expecting foot traffic to return to pre-pandemic levels. This trend presents a significant opportunity for startups to explore omnichannel solutions. At the forefront of this transition is the StartupIN program, which distinguishes itself through its focus on guiding startups in navigating in-store environments.
Despite being founded just two years ago, StartupIN has clearly defined objectives: to champion innovation, foster collaboration, and serve as the bridge between in-store innovation and global commercial opportunities for startups. To determine if startups are a good fit for the program, StartupIN evaluates them based on four key criteria, known as the 4T’s -Team, Technology, Traction & The Ingenico fit.
Acknowledging the ever-changing nature of startup environments, where market trends, technological advancements, and business pivots continuously evolve, the program is designed to be highly responsive to these changes. Partnering with startups, the program helps to navigate challenges including corporate environments and hierarchies, bridging gaps, and making the necessary connections.
Beyond facilitating short-term collaborations, StartupIN is committed to cultivating long-term relationships with emerging startups. The program primarily focuses on APAC and European markets, having successfully engaged startups such as Pi-xcels, Triple A, Crowdshop, Anycover, Kosmo, Savee, and Payex, with ongoing Proof of Concepts in Brazil and Spain, showcasing a diverse array of innovative solutions in the payment landscape across various industries.
(From left to right: The StartupIN team: Ankit Maheshwari, Mickael Joye and Sebastien Lefranc at Paytech 2024)
Startups are attracted to StartupIN for various reasons. Firstly, the program provides a streamlined process and reduces risks for startups, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness. The straightforward onboarding process facilitates quick integration, and startups receive tailored mentorship. Furthermore, StartupIN's participation in key industry events like the Singapore Fintech Festival and Paytech, Ingenico’s annual global event for its clients, offers valuable networking opportunities and the chance for startups to co-exhibit, boosting visibility and engagement in the startup ecosystem.
(StartupIN team with Pitch Contest 2023 contestants and judges)
StartupIN and the road ahead
Looking ahead to 2024, StartupIN’s plans to continue supporting innovative solutions that positively shape the commerce landscape by enhancing its go-to-market strategy and transitioning POCs into the pilot phase, building on 2023's successes.
To refine its approach, StartupIN collaborates closely with innovation teams in the banking sector to identify suitable startups for potential 3-way POC co-creation and tailoring solutions precisely to meet partners' and market needs. Additionally, it strengthens relationships within the fintech ecosystem through partnerships with ecosystem players and venture capitalists (VCs), aligning with its commitment to fostering innovation in the financial technology space.
For startups curious to learn more about StartupIN and the program, find more information at: https://ingenico.com/en/partners/startupin.
