In this episode, we speak with Chris Varley, Principal, Goodyear Ventures about the value and role of Corporate Venture in the startup eco-system. We discuss the distinction between open innovation and corporate ventures, how startups can leverage corporate ventures to accelerate growth and why teams often matter more than technology.

A respected expert in technology commercialization and strategic business innovation, Chris has led new business and new product creation efforts for several major corporations including AT&T, CompuServe, Prentice-Hall, and The Walt Disney Company. In his current role as a Principal with Goodyear Ventures, Chris focuses on mobility and sustainability-related investments that enhance Goodyear’s products and mobility services.

Previously, as New Market Development Vice President for AT&T Labs, Chris led a venture development and investment group that commercialized emerging technologies outside of traditional AT&T markets. A two term Generation Foundation Fellow for Sustainable Development and former Vice President of NorTech, the Northeast Ohio Technology Coalition, Chris played a critical role in the early development of the clean energy movement in Northeast Ohio.

In addition to his operational experience, Chris has written more than 50 film, television, and children’s book projects, and served as a key advisor on start up funding and strategic partnering for New Media Partners, a digital media and technology consultancy based in Glasgow, Scotland.