Porsche and Cambridge University Unite to Empower Innovative Start-up Atera Water

Porsche's "Start-up Your Dream" initiative, in collaboration with the University of Cambridge, is providing crucial support to Atera Water, a start-up focused on developing innovative solutions for global challenges. This partnership aims to accelerate Atera Water's growth and market entry, underscoring Porsche's commitment to social responsibility and fostering entrepreneurial talent.

Key Takeaways

• Porsche's "Start-up Your Dream" initiative is backing Atera Water.

• Atera Water is participating in the renowned Ignite program at Cambridge University's Judge Business School.

• The program focuses on developing innovative business ideas for global challenges, particularly in the Global South.

• Porsche's support aligns with its "Partner to Society" strategy, emphasizing self-help projects.

Empowering Innovation Through Collaboration

Porsche's "Start-up Your Dream" initiative is a flagship project designed to support start-ups with groundbreaking innovations that can positively impact living and working conditions, especially in developing nations. The program also champions founders addressing critical areas like climate change, integration, and education.

As part of this initiative, Atera Water's founders, Tai Kee and Dr. Adrian Yeo, have been given the opportunity to participate in the intensive one-week Ignite program at the Judge Business School, University of Cambridge. This program offers a robust entrepreneurial framework, drawing on academic research and the vibrant Cambridge ecosystem. Participants receive practical training, mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, and valuable networking opportunities.

Dr. Adrian Yeo expressed his gratitude, stating, "Participating in the Ignite program enabled us to further develop our business idea and exchange ideas with other entrepreneurs on site." Tai Kee added, "The keynotes, workshops, mentoring sessions, and networking events were very valuable to us and broadened our perspective."

Atera Water's Mission and Porsche's Commitment

Atera Water is at the forefront of developing advanced water filtration technology. Their innovative system aims to provide access to clean drinking water in regions facing water scarcity or pollution, utilizing minimal chemicals. The start-up merges scientific expertise with practical engineering, focusing on creating cost-effective and energy-efficient filtration solutions.

Porsche's involvement, through its "Partner to Society" strategy, highlights its dedication to social engagement. The "Start-up Your Dream" initiative is built on four pillars: education, networking, mentoring, and financing, all tailored to the specific needs of the supported start-ups. This project is a testament to Porsche's commitment to "Creating Chances" by empowering individuals and communities through self-help projects.

The collaboration with the University of Cambridge's Ignite program, which has a 27-year history of launching successful ventures, provides Atera Water with a unique platform to refine its business model and prepare for future growth. The multi-month program offers continuous training, mentorship, and networking opportunities to strengthen the start-up's development.