“We are in exactly the right place”
“As far as nanotechnology is concerned, there is a real spirit of impending change in Russia, and our expertise means that we are in exactly the right place here at the moment.” Marco Beckmann, CEO of Nanostart, ended his speech at this year’s Rusnanotech in Moscow with this conclusion.>>
Source: Nanostart Newsletter, October 2011

In front of an audience of experts, Beckmann described the Russian situation for investment in nanotechnology and its opportunities and challenges from the viewpoint of a leading international nanotechnology investor. The nanotechnology scene is booming as a result of substantial government funding of nanotechnology. Nanostart’s professional skills in terms of assessing the future potential of young nanotechnology companies and making them successful with commercialization expertise are therefore more sought-after than ever. In Moscow, Nanostart showcased its expertise in these areas while increasing its profile as a reliable partner on the overall Russian nanotechnology scene.

Nanostart with a local presence in Russia

The local presence of Nanostart AG with a subsidiary is an essential condition for doing business in Russia. This is why, in mid-October, Nanostart spent the equivalent of around €2.4 million on buying an asset management company in Moscow that will trade as Nanostart Russia Asset Management Ltd.

Vladimir Bogomolov, Director Eastern Europe at Nanostart AG, commented: “We have acquired a company from a high profile group of investors. Regarding the purchase price, it must be borne in mind that the company has a legally prescribed cash contribution equivalent to around €2.0 million as well as several employees. It also holds the necessary license for managing investment funds. Our local presence is opening up more and more options for activity. Specific projects that result from this will then be managed by the Russian Nanostart subsidiary.”

The first option arose in the spring. Nanostart was selected from a field of international applicants to manage the Kama Fund First, a regional nanotechnology fund set up in the Perm region, in conjunction with Russian partners.

Business options and personal contacts

Although Rusnanotech was held for only the fourth time at the end of October, it is not only the biggest nanotechnology conference and trade fair in Russia, but also one of the biggest in the world. However, its particular importance to maintaining personal contacts and making new ones was apparent once again.

In discussions and meetings, Marco Beckmann and Vladimir Bogomolov were therefore focused on identifying further business options on the Russian nanotechnology scene for the approaching market entry in Russia, enhancing existing contacts and making new ones. Bogomolov commented: “In Russia, it is particularly important to get to know business partners personally, as this is the only way to build up the trust required for the deals.”