"To ensure that the concepts match our needs and vision, we will maintain Page 3 intensive dialogue with the participants during this phase. This will help us to establish who is in a position to manage projects and implement them efficiently," continues Mornhinweg. As the projects are developed, the participants will gain a deeper insight into the work of Mercedes-Benz Vans. Those who prove most convincing will reach the final. In the prototype phase a maximum of five selected teams will work with Mercedes-Benz Vans to turn their ideas into functional prototypes. Mercedes-Benz Vans developers will work with the startups to promote the development of the prototypes, pooling resources. The prototypes will be submitted to a test phase for which Mercedes-Benz Vans will make a further 900 000 euros available. In addition to financial assistance, Mercedes-Benz Vans will support the finalists with know-how: "As an internationally successful company, we have resources, contacts and, even more importantly, experience and expertise. The two worlds – startup and global company – will prove the ideal foil for one another. All sides will benefit from the close collaboration", continues Volker Mornhinweg. Building long-term partnerships Unlike many other competitions of this kind, the financial support does not go hand-in-hand with Mercedes-Benz Vans acquiring a stake in the participating companies. The challenge offers both sides a forum which will allow them to get to know each other in an informal environment and embark on a fruitful collaboration. At the end of the challenge, there will be various options for future collaborations: "From a classic customer relationship to a strategic partnership of equals or investment in the startup – we are open to different collaborative arrangements here." Further details and competition documents Interested startups can find out more about "Startup adVANce", including entry conditions, requirements and the competition process, at http://startup- advance.mercedes-benz.com. Submissions for the first phase will only be accepted via the online portal and the closing date is 15 January 2017. Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart, Germany Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand