What projects did you work on? How was it working on them, and how was the experience?
- Ida: I worked with SKF on two projects related to their bearing manufacturing and a landscape study exploring new business areas. The Venture Client projects were focused on cast iron reworking technologies and steel quality assurance through non-destructive testing. I especially enjoyed the process of gaining a deeper understanding of the problems to be solved in the business cases. It was also fascinating to research emerging technologies in the respective markets and speak with founders from all over the world.
- Oliver: I worked with Autoliv on projects related to two-wheel vehicle safety and generative AI in complex product design. I found it highly interesting to learn about new industries. It was exciting to see how multinational industrial corporations leverage startups to solve critical business challenges. Additionally, I greatly enjoyed engaging with founders of successful startups worldwide.
What new skills or knowledge did you gain during your internship?
Our learnings were diverse, but the first thing that comes to mind is communication skills. We were responsible for engaging with and actively maintaining relationships with startups, scale-ups, and other tech companies globally. We also gained valuable best practices for conducting market research—particularly within the startup ecosystem—and learned a great deal about new industries and emerging technologies.
After initial briefings on where and how to find relevant startups, we were entrusted with all scouting tasks for the business opportunities we were involved in. Our main tasks included analyzing and evaluating startup solutions using frameworks introduced to us and presenting our findings to the corporate case teams. Through our interactions with the corporate teams, we gained insights into how corporate R&D processes can work. Since making corporate R&D processes leaner was a hot topic in the office, we also learned how startups’ expertise can be leveraged in corporate R&D and how to successfully scope, pilot, and scale such projects. These insights were actively shared within the team.
What were the biggest highlights of the internship?
The biggest highlight was the Value Proposition Days event we organized in Stockholm in December. There, we met dozens of founders from around the world and collaborated in person with corporate and startup team members we had worked with throughout the fall. It was incredibly rewarding to see the results of our efforts take shape and to have our work appreciated by corporate customers, startups, and colleagues.
Another highlight, though less specific but no less important, was the fantastic colleagues and the exceptional work culture. The supportive mindsets, frequent feedback, and both formal and informal discussions made day-to-day work enjoyable. Team activities throughout the internship were especially memorable.
How would you describe Combient Foundry as a work environment?
The work environment at Foundry is energetic and motivated, yet relaxed. Hybrid work options provided flexibility, but we often chose to work from the office due to the excellent atmosphere. As interns, our feedback and opinions were genuinely valued. We frequently had opportunities to influence how things were done and even participated in business development activities for Foundry’s future plans.
The small team size ensured an agile and supportive work environment, fostering strong team spirit. This camaraderie was further reinforced through activities such as team breakfasts, after-work gatherings, random coffee sessions, and, of course, the Christmas party.
What was your typical day like as an intern at Combient Foundry?
Since the work was project-based, our day-to-day tasks varied depending on the stage of the process. Typically, our day began by catching up on emails and setting goals. Daily tasks included scouting and evaluating startups, attending internal or client meetings, conducting market research, and preparing presentations. As interns responsible for managing startup communication, we also hosted dozens of meetings with startups and presented our findings directly to corporate clients.
Lunch was always a team affair—a great way to hear about other projects and connect with the team. Thanks to the office’s convenient location, we had plenty of excellent lunch spots to choose from.
Anything else you would like to share?
We highly recommend an internship at Foundry to anyone interested in startups, innovation, and R&D in large multinational corporations, regardless of their field of study. Foundry is the perfect place to learn from the best startups around the world, gain insights into corporate innovation processes, and step out of your comfort zone with the support of an incredible team.
