In the ever-evolving landscape of startups and innovation, the spotlight often shines on the most luminous of disruptors. Yet, the bedrock of this vibrant ecosystem is the support and tools that empower these emerging ventures to transition from nascent ideas to market-ready solutions. At the forefront of this supportive network stands Dassault Systèmes with its pioneering “3DEXPERIENCE Works for Startups” or “SOLIDWORKS for Startups” program, as revealed in an insightful dialogue with Abhishek Bali, the director of the program.
Abhishek Bali, an engineer and designer turned MBA graduate, joined Dassault Systèmes’ Boston office in 2016. With a rich background in engineering and business, Bali brings a unique perspective to the startup program, emphasizing the importance of bridging top-down innovation with grassroots, bottoms-up creativity. Dassault Systèmes, traditionally known for aiding giants like Boeing and Procter & Gamble in overcoming innovation challenges, has, over the past decade, turned its gaze to the burgeoning field of startups.
The “3DEXPERIENCE Works for Startups” program, initiated in 2017, is a testament to Dassault Systèmes’ belief in the power of early to mid-stage startups. The program offers these companies—particularly those with physical products aimed at the market and less than five years old or under one million in revenue—comprehensive access to Dassault’s suite of design, engineering, simulation, and data intelligence tools. Remarkably, over 19,000 startups have been admitted to the program, with close to 900 applications received monthly from across the globe. This global outreach, stretching from the US and Europe to Asia Pacific regions, underscores Dassault Systèmes’ commitment to democratizing access to cutting-edge tools for innovators everywhere.
Beyond software access, the program uniquely positions startups for success by providing substantial discounts in the initial years, exposure at leading trade shows, and a chance to be featured on Dassault Systèmes’ marketing platforms. This holistic approach not only lowers barriers to entry but also connects startups with a broader ecosystem of investors, manufacturers, and mentors.
A standout aspect of the program is its adaptability and support for startups in various sectors, including medical devices and disaster management, reflecting a deep respect for the diverse challenges innovators face. Partnerships with over 200 incubators worldwide further amplify the program’s reach, offering startups a springboard to refine their ideas and scale new heights.
In conversation, Bali shared touching anecdotes of startups applying to the program during significant holidays, underscoring the profound value and hope the program instills in its applicants. The program’s success is not just measured by the software it provides but by the dreams it enables and the global innovation ecosystem it nurtures.
