Plug and Play Innovation Academy
Learn cutting-edge innovation strategies and gain exclusive access to the Silicon Valley ecosystem.
About the Innovation Academy
The Plug and Play Innovation Academy is a premier executive education masterclass situated in the heart of Silicon Valley. Designed for forward-thinking leaders, the program delivers immersive, hands-on learning and unparalleled networking opportunities with the world’s leading startup ecosystem. Participants gain actionable insights into innovation strategy, corporate venturing, and open innovation, choosing specialized pathways designed to accelerate their professional growth and drive measurable impact within their organizations.
May 17 - 21, 2027
The next cohort will take place before our Silicon Valley May Summit.
Download the Innovation Academy Booklet
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Real-World Experience and Access
Gain hands-on insights and exclusive access to the Plug and Play innovation ecosystem. Engage directly with high-growth startups, global corporations, and industry pioneers at the center of Silicon Valley.
Strategic Professional Growth
Accelerate your career by mastering the frameworks used by top venture capitalists and corporate innovators. Gain the practical tools and strategic mindset needed to lead digital transformation within organizations.
Unmatched Networking Opportunities
Build meaningful, long-term connections with a global network of innovators, executives, and thought leaders. Gain entry to a high-caliber community that extends well beyond the duration of the program.
What Makes Us Unique?
Who better to teach innovation than those who practice it every day?
This is why Plug and Play built the Innovation Academy, to share our unparalleled ecosystem expertise and empower executives to become high-impact change-makers within their organizations. We bridge the gap between theory and execution by bringing you directly into the world’s most active innovation hub.
Why Choose This Masterclass?
We know that every professional's journey is unique. That’s why the Plug and Play Innovation Academy allows you to tailor your experience to align with your specific corporate goals and strategic ambitions.
Whether you are looking for rapid, immersive learning, industry-recognized certification, or a deep dive into corporate venture capital, we provide the specialized pathways to help you lead the future of your industry.
Is this the right path for you?
This masterclass is designed for:
- Innovation-Driven Professionals: Those working in or aspiring to work in innovation-focused roles.
- Future-Focused Leaders: Individuals aiming to enhance their leadership, innovation, and strategic skills to drive change.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Professional Experience: At least five years of professional experience in business, corporate, or entrepreneurial enviroment.
- Language Proficiency: Fully proficiency in English is required to actively engage in workshops, networking, and group discussions.
- Organizational Impact: A commitment to applying the frameworks and insights gained at the Academy to drive measurablle growth within their organization.
Innovation Management and AI
Work through real-world case studies and hands-on exercises to translate your innovation and AI strategy into action, ensuring a strong foundation for corporate innovation.
Capabilities & Cultural Change
Learn what capabilities are needed to successfully run innovation and AI initiatives in the corporate and how to manage the cultural shift that is connected to increased innovation.
Executing Open Innovation
Learn how to leverage startups for growth by engaging in venture clienting, startup collaboration, and open innovation.
Innovation Academy Logistics
1
Dates and Duration
The next cohort will take place before our Silicon Valley Summer Summit from May 11-15, 2026.
2
Location
Plug and Play’s headquarters in Silicon Valley, the global hub of innovation.
3
Fee
The fee for the Academy is €12,000. Discounts are available for Plug and Play network partners.
4
Application
Apply early to secure your spot — we recommend submitting your application at least one month before the start date.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Plug and Play Experts: Practitioners who run innovation programs daily for over 550 corporate partners and engage with 90,000+ startups worldwide.
- Academic Partners: Professors from Steinbeis School of Management and Technology & St. Gallen Business School, ensuring academic rigor and ECTS accreditation.
- Industry Guests: Senior executives, unicorn founders, and top VC partners share real-world insights from the forefront of innovation.
- Immersive learning at Plug and Play’s Silicon Valley HQ.
- Three core modules: Innovation Management, Capabilities & Cultural Change, and Executing Open Innovation.
- Site visits to tech giants, corporate innovation hubs, startup accelerators, and venture capital firms.
- Exclusive access to the Plug and Play Summit, connecting you with global corporates, startups, and investors.
- Hands-on workshops where you apply frameworks directly to your organization’s challenges.
- Executive networking and curated cultural activities, including high-level dinners and Napa Valley excursions.
- Actionable outcomes: You will leave with new partnerships, a global network, and strategies ready for immediate execution.
- Professional Experience: A minimum of five years of full-time professional experience.
- English Proficiency: All sessions are delivered in English; participants must be able to engage actively in high-level discussions.
- Supporting Documents: A current CV and ID/passport. (Optional: letters of recommendation or relevant professional certificates).
- Target Audience: We welcome senior executives, innovation leads, and emerging leaders from all industries who are ready to drive measurable transformation within their organizations.
- Professional Pathways: Participants in advanced tracks receive specialized certification validating their expertise in innovation strategy and corporate venturing.
- Professional Recognition: All qualifications are designed as formal proof of professional development, recognized by our global network of over 500 corporate partners and industry leaders.
- Submit Your Application: Complete the application via our official website or through your personal invitation email.
- Initial Consultation: Our team will schedule a call to understand your professional goals, discuss your organization’s innovation challenges, and answer any specific questions about the program.
- Executive Review: We assess your background and professional experience to ensure a strong fit for the current cohort’s strategic goals.
- Acceptance & Onboarding: Once accepted, you will receive a detailed preparation package, including logistical support and pre-session materials to maximize your Silicon Valley experience.
Who are the instructors?
The instructors are a select group of Plug and Play innovation experts, academic faculty, and industry leaders.
This mix means you’ll learn from those who teach, build, and lead innovation at the highest level , as well as get exposure to best practices and real company use-cases.
What is included in the Silicon Valley experience?
Your one-week Innovation Masterclass includes:
What are the application requirements?
To join the Innovation Academy, you’ll need:
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes.
Innovation Masterclass: Upon completion, you will receive an official Certificate of Completion from Plug and Play.
How do I apply to the Innovation Academy?
Applying is a straightforward:
