The Internet Initiatives Development Fund (IIDF) is the largest Russian accelerator and venture fund that supports startups at various stages of development. In this article, we will talk about acceleration programs, financing, mentoring and cooperation with large corporations that help startups grow and enter new markets. I will also share my experience working on the Open Oil Market project as part of the IIDF program and consider examples of successful companies such as TimePad, CarPrice and YouDo. The Internet ...

... hundreds of millions of dollars, a feat formerly achieved only by more mature businesses. The current AI boom is global in nature and continues to gain momentum, setting new records in the venture market for access to cutting-edge technologies. Fintech and Corporate Finance Back in Focus Following a temporary decline in interest, the fintech sector is experiencing a resurgence. Investors are once again actively financing projects related to digital finance, payments, and next-generation banking services. A notable ...

... technologies - industrial players are directly investing in deeptech startups. In Europe, a group of funds launched Orbit Capital, a €100 million venture debt fund focused on supporting high-growth companies in Central and Eastern Europe through hybrid financing. New specialist funds are also emerging in many regions. From corporate accelerators in the Middle East to AI-focused funds in Asia, the global venture community is actively raising capital for the next generation of tech entrepreneurs. These initiatives expand access to funding for startups and demonstrate investors’ ...

... fund invests large sums, often gets a seat on the board of directors, and actively influences the development of the company. Corporate venture investors are large companies that invest in startups for strategic purposes. For example, a tech giant can finance a promising fintech startup in order to integrate its solutions into its business in the future. Corporate funds (CVC – Corporate Venture Capital) are usually interested in startups related to their industry and can bring not only money, but also resource support (access to infrastructure, customer base). Accelerators and incubators are structures ...

... in startups, acquiring minority stakes. This is mutually beneficial: startups receive funds and resources, while corporations gain access to innovations. In 2022–2023, amid a downturn in traditional VC, the share of corporate venture capital grew—corporate funds remained more stable and continued financing deals, even as some hedge funds and later-stage investors exited the market. In the U.S., corporate investors participated in approximately 56% of venture deals (according to NVCA), and 40% in Europe. Their presence is particularly noticeable ...