In the quest to secure the enduring success of the company, Henkel pursues a dual strategy in research with both internal and external competencies being combined in order to strengthen and expand our product portfolio and to develop new markets. In Central Research, we are involved in the fields of biology, chemistry and technology for the purpose of developing innovative basic technologies for new products. To reinforce its own resources, Henkel networks worldwide at an interdisciplinary level with universities, institutes and start-ups. These external partnerships considerably accelerate the speed of innovation and the time-to-market.

Henkel invests into venture capital funds and start-ups focusing on strategic partnerships with companies whose entrepreneurial ideas lie in the fields of advanced materials, technologies and biosciences. The knowledge gained in these research areas is channeled into a variety of product developments – from detergents to DNA chips and from adhesives to medical devices. Different components and technologies are combined into innovative and intelligent systems. Henkel's aim in all cooperation is to achieve long-term benefits for all parties. Taking a minority equity stake or establishing interesting collaboration projects, we support the business idea and help to translate new technologies into marketable products. This makes it possible to jointly create new business activities. Our Venture Capital team offers experience and competence for strategic partnerships.