CampX by Volvo Group – new member focusing on deep-tech startups in mobility

CampX by Volvo Group is an innovation platform that partners with deep-tech startups in the mobility industry. Combining industrial expertise with entrepreneurial spirit, they help startups scale up and integrate their technology into the industry. Through three different programmes – incubator, venture client and venture builder – it creates the conditions for collaborations that drive mobility innovation forward.

A platform for innovation and collaboration
CampX is a Volvo Group initiative to connect startups with established industry and it operates globally with hubs in Sweden, India, France and the US. The programmes are designed to support deep-tech startups throughout their journey – from early product development to potentially becoming a Volvo Group supplier.

“Currently, I am leading our incubator programme, which focuses on deep-tech startups in the early stages of the mobility industry. My work is also about developing the ecosystem for startups and industry locally in Gothenburg,” says Robert Jan van Vugt, Head of CampX Incubator Programme.

Broad experience in the startup ecosystem
Robert Jan van Vugt has a long background in the startup world, both as an entrepreneur and as a leader in incubators and innovation programmes.

“I started my entrepreneurial career about 15 years ago as one of the first employees of a deep-tech startup in the solar energy industry. After 6.5 years in various management roles, I realised that my passion is less technical and more focused on the human perspective,” he says.

After a stint as COO at one of Europe’s largest deep-tech incubators, YES!Delft in the Netherlands, he moved to Sweden in 2020. Since 2022, he has been part of CampX by Volvo Group, which works to strengthen collaboration between startups and industry.

Expectations of SISP membership
Through its membership in SISP, CampX sees an opportunity to both contribute and learn from other actors in the innovation support system.

“The peer learning and community is what we are most looking forward to. I don’t think there is any incubator, science park or start-up support organisation that is 100% satisfied with its current model. This field is still relatively new and constantly evolving,” says Robert.

He also sees a great opportunity to understand how others work to support start-ups.

“Start-ups are complex to support, and we are very interested to see how other organisations structure their support efforts. We look forward to learning from the community and sharing experiences.”

A vision to build Europe’s Y Combinator
Y Combinator, one of the world’s most successful startup accelerators, sees Robert as a role model and something we can take inspiration from at European level.

“For me, YC is not just about investment, but about building a strong network of like-minded entrepreneurs. Being part of YC acts as a seal of quality,” Robert concludes.

With its focus on deep-tech startups and mobility innovation, CampX by Volvo Group adds an important dimension to the SISP network and we warmly welcome them as members!

To CampX by Volvo Group