Accelerating tech in financial services

The core objective of the programme is not only running Proof of Concepts (PoCs) together. We aim for exploring and validating whether a partnership or commercial collaboration after the program makes sense. That is why we use real data, real customers, real experiences, to truly validate whether an idea is working well. To plan for success we provide you with:

• A dedicated lead sponsor from ING at senior level that will work closely with you on the design and execution of your Proof of Concept.
• A personalized project squad and a team of mentors and sponsors from ING to support your progress and provide access to the expertise and networks we have available.
• A tailor-made programme focusing on the scaling journey and the relevant learnings you need to move forward.

We are looking for technology-driven startups that are in revenue mode, looking to accelerate selling & scaling, or expand out of home turf.

This is what is important for us when selecting our participants:

1. Strategic fit

   Does your solution tackle one of ING’s strategic challenges?

2. Commitment

   Are you committed to put sufficient resources for the proof of concept in place as well as attend our classes, coaching sessions and events connected to the programme?

3. Maturity

   Are you a startup with a product that can be tested in a proof of concept with ING or a scaleup already in the commercial phase but wanting to expand your solution in a new way?

• When applications for the yearly programme are open, the link to the online form can be found on this website. Applications are only accepted via this channel as it allows us to put your solution through a structured intake process involving all relevant stakeholders.

• All applications that pass the initial screening by the innovation team will be forwarded to potential business sponsors for review. Together, we decide which candidates will be invited for deep-dive interviews. If all relevant ING stakeholders believe it would be a strong match, you will be invited to a selection day in Brussels or Amsterdam. During this final selection stage, both you as well as your business sponsor pitch the solution and potential use case for a proof of concept to a Jury consisting of delegates from ING Belgium, ING Netherlands and ING Group, including members of our executive committees.
• *Please take into account that it will depend on the Covid regulations that apply at the specific moment in time whether the program events take place physically or digitally.

• The focus of the programme is the execution of a proof of concept together with a business unit of ING. Next to that we offer a supporting track of classes and coaching sessions focused on scaling your business. These classes are clustered in 3 meet-ups spread over the course of the programme. The official programme ends with a Demo where the results and learnings of the proof of concept are presented by the participant and business sponsor to ING and external audience.
• *Please take into account that it will depend on the Covid regulations that apply at the specific moment in time whether the program events take place physically or digitally.

• Based on the results of the proof of concept the business will take a decision on either stopping the collaboration, entering into an additional pilot or test, or moving towards production and a commercial collaboration. ING Labs Brussels will continue to support that part of the journey.