Finding the right corporate partners shouldn’t feel like guesswork
For startups, identifying the right corporate partners is often harder than defining the strategy itself.
You might have a strong value proposition and clear partnering objectives, but translating that into a focused, credible list of target corporates takes time, access, and insider knowledge. Too often, teams rely on surface-level lists, outdated assumptions, or ad hoc Google research.
Without structured partner research, startups risk targeting the wrong companies�“or approaching the right ones at the wrong time, with the wrong message.
Turn partner research into a strategic advantage
This service helps startups systematically identify, prioritise, and understand potential corporate partners. Outreach becomes intentional, credible, and aligned with long-term strategy.
Whether you need a curated long list, deep strategic profiles on priority targets, or a scalable system to run partner intelligence in-house, we meet you where you are.
With this service, you can:
- Identify a long list of relevant corporate partners aligned to your technology, assets, and partnering goals
- Prioritise targets based on strategic fit, not just brand recognition
- Build actionable intelligence on how target corporates think, invest, and partner
- Set up repeatable research and monitoring pipelines your team can run independently
The result: fewer dead ends, sharper conversations, and partnerships pursued with confidence.
Strategic Targeting
Move beyond generic lists with partner prioritisation grounded in your partnering strategy and value drivers.
Corporate Insider Insight
Leverage real-world BD&L and corporate investment experience to understand how partners evaluate opportunities.
Scalable Systems
Choose between done-for-you research or automation pipelines that let your team monitor partners over time.You’ll gain clarity on who to target, why they matter, and how to engage them effectively.
Service Details
What’s Included
This service can be delivered as a standalone engagement or integrated with your broader partnership strategy work.
Option 1: Partner Long List & Prioritisation
- Identify a broad universe of potential corporate partners
- Filter and prioritise partners based on:
- Strategic fit to your partnering objectives
- Asset and capability alignment
- Geography, business unit relevance, and deal appetite
- Output: A ranked target partner list with clear rationale
Option 2: Strategic Partner Profiles
For priority targets, we compile structured partner intelligence, including:
- Organisational structure and key locations
- Business unit and strategic focus
- Partnership and investment history
- Technology and pipeline priorities
- Decision-making structures and signals to watch
- Implications for your positioning and outreach
Option 3: Partner Research & Monitoring Pipelines
For teams that want to build internal capability:
- Design and set up automated workflows using Python or Large Language Model AI
- Tool-agnostic or integrated into your existing CRM / workflow tools
- Training and documentation for handover to your team
Who this is for?
This service is designed for startups and innovation teams that want to pursue corporate partnerships with focus and intent.
- Early-stage startups preparing for first strategic partnerships
- Scaling startups refining target lists ahead of outreach or fundraising
- Founders who know what they want from partnerships but need clarity on who to approach
- Incubators, accelerators, and venture teams supporting startups with BD&L and partnering strategy
If you already have a partnering strategy�“or are developing one in parallel�“this service ensures your execution matches your ambition.
Format
- Delivery: Project-based or sprint-based engagement
- Delivery mode: Remote (with optional in-person sessions by arrangement)
- Confidentiality: Conducted under NDA
- Customisation: Scope tailored to your stage, sector, and internal capabilities
This service can be delivered independently or bundled with other corporate partnership workshops or execution support.
Instructor
CEO and Founder, MedDev Central
With over 20 years in medical technology, corporate investment, and business development, Sophie Laurenson brings the perspective of both startup founder and corporate decision-maker.
During nearly a decade at Abbott, she led open innovation, corporate investment, and partnership initiatives�“evaluating technologies globally and shaping BD&L strategy across multiple business units. As a technical due diligence expert and advisor, she has supported startups and corporates across devices, diagnostics, and digital health.
This insider view allows her to design partner research frameworks that reflect how corporates actually think, prioritise, and engage�“so startups can approach the right partners with credibility and intent.
Pricing
Pricing is based on scope, depth, and level of automation required.
Typical packages include:
- Partner long list and prioritisation
- Strategic profiles for priority partners
- Design and setup of partner research and monitoring pipelines
Need a custom package? We offer tailored solutions for startups, portfolio companies, incubators, and corporate innovation teams.
Contact us to discuss your requirements and receive a tailored proposal.
Get Started
Ready to stop guessing and start targeting the right partners?
Not sure which option fits your stage? Book a consultation to talk through your goals and constraints.
