D2XCEL Interview: Scaling Deep Tech for a livable future

In December 2023, a total of 13 partners from 8 countries, including BRYCK, kicked off the D2XCEL project in Nürnberg. Since then, the holistic mentoring program and scaling platform, funded under the EU horizon umbrella, has started to support 50 startups that are categorized in five focused market groups.

But what exactly is D2XCEL? What was the intention of the consortium containing of partners like Tech Tour, Aalto University Helsinki, Athens University of Economics, ZAZ Ventures, maritime street, Nürnberg Messe, UNIMOS alliance, Any Change, Corporate Venture Advisory, Miles Ahead, The Recursive and BRYCK, when they aimed for the project? And most of all: What is BRYCKs mission within the project? Our colleague Jacqueline Kos has talked to Salvatore Cavallaro, Startup Program Manager at BRYCK, who is managing the project alongside Felix Schröder, to get all the answers:

Jacqueline: Salvatore, let’s start with the basics. What is D2XCEL, and what is the overall goal of the program?

Salvatore: D2XCEL is a European-funded project under the EU-Horizon-Umbrella aimed at creating a comprehensive ecosystem around various deep tech topics. Deep tech needs significant support, and the best way to provide this is by connecting people, companies, investors, corporates, and venture consultants. The goal is to support startups in the deep tech sector, not just through acceleration programs but by building an ecosystem that fosters collaboration and innovation.

Jacqueline: That sounds fascinating. Could you elaborate on what this ecosystem offers in depth beyond the traditional acceleration programs?

Salvatore: The ecosystem offers startups opportunities to network, exchange ideas, and establish valuable connections. Beyond structured programs with mentors and specialized sessions, startups can access a broader ecosystem for feedback, potential introductions, and opportunities to connect with investors. It’s a continuous support system that extends far beyond the program's timeline. One of the core benefits for the startups is the opportunity to expand into further European markets due to internationalization.

Jacqueline: What kind of startups does D2XCEL typically support?

Salvatore: Our focus is mainly on Series A startups—those that are stable, generating cash flow, and ready to scale internationally. However, depending on the sector or technology, we also work with startups in earlier or later stages. Sometimes, even small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as defined by the EU, are part of our program.

Jacqueline: Which markets or sectors does D2XCEL target?

Salvatore: Currently, we have five focus markets, with five more opening next year. These include areas like large-scale energy storage solutions, logistics, freight transportation, and circular materials for construction. Our focus aligns with the EU’s broader sustainability goals.

Jacqueline: Why did BRYCK decide to participate in D2XCEL?

Salvatore: As an innovation hub, we see a critical need for collaboration to drive innovation. Europe faces stiff competition from regions like North America, where innovation ecosystems are well-structured and heavily funded. By coming together through initiatives like D2XCEL, we can amplify our impact and compete on a global scale.

Jacqueline: What role does BRYCK play within the D2XCEL program?

Salvatore: As a consortium partner, BRYCK brings extensive experience in acceleration programs and our robust network. We contribute to two specific programs—one on large-scale energy storage and another on circular models for cities and regions. Additionally, we help define and ensure the quality of the mentoring program within the project.

Jacqueline: Could you share some details about the mentoring program?

Salvatore: The mentoring program is comprehensive and includes vertical mentoring tailored to specific markets and horizontal mentoring on cross-cutting topics like intellectual property or scaling strategies. Startups also benefit from ecosystem mentoring, where partners offer their expertise in areas like product-market fit, pitching, or fundraising.

Jacqueline: How many startups is BRYCK mentoring currently for the D2XCEL program?

Salvatore: At the moment, we are mentoring ten startups and will continue with the same number in the next cohort starting in April.

Jacqueline: Can you share a success story from D2XCEL, particularly in the large-scale energy storage sector?

Salvatore: One example is PowerUp Energy Technologies, which recently won an award at our Demo Day in collaboration with Tech Tour. The event provided a platform for startups to engage with international investors and showcase their innovations.

Jacqueline: How does BRYCK’s participation in D2XCEL align with its mission to "create a livable future"?

Salvatore: Our focus on impact-driven solutions directly aligns with this mission – especially our expertise in supporting deep-tech startups that focus on energy tech and climate tech. Through D2XCEL, we’re supporting technologies that address global challenges, such as sustainable energy storage and the use of alternative materials. These solutions are designed to be scalable, sustainable, and aligned with European sovereignty goals.

Jacqueline: What are the main challenges for large-scale energy storage solutions?

Salvatore: Adoption is a significant hurdle. Deep tech solutions carry high technology and financial risks, requiring extensive piloting and proof of concept. Especially startups focusing on capital intense hardware solutions face a challenge of bridging the “valley of death”. On the other side, corporates often hesitate to adopt new technologies due to the associated risks and costs. However, as these solutions mature, we expect wider adoption at scale.

Jacqueline: Finally, what are BRYCK’s future plans within D2XCEL and beyond?

Salvatore: D2XCEL is pivotal for expanding our international network and showcasing BRYCK’s capabilities. Moving forward, we aim to deepen our collaboration with global partners, enabling startups to scale faster and more effectively.

You want to learn more about D2XCEL? Follow D2XCEL and BRYCK on LinkedIn to stay updated and visit D2XCEL.