LIST Ventures Adopts More Open And Proactive Approach

The Luxembourg Institute for Science and Technology (LIST) Ventures Office has a new leader. Alex Godlewski is on a mission to connect scientists, entrepreneurs, and investors to transform world-class research from Luxembourg into high-impact ventures.

Source : siliconluxembourg.lu
Publication date : 03/26/2025

Established in 2020 under then-CEO Thomas Kallstenius, LIST Ventures focuses on turning lab-born technologies into startups by leveraging LIST’s technical expertise and resources. Since its inception, the initiative has helped create 14 spinoffs—one of which, OAT, has already made an exit.

A Shift Towards a More Entrepreneurial Model

“We want to engage with partners who share our vision of creating more and better spin-offs in Luxembourg,” explains Godlewski, the newly appointed head of LIST Ventures. His goal is to build a strong talent pool of entrepreneurs who will “pull, rather than push, minimum viable products from our labs to market.”

These entrepreneurs could either launch their own companies using LIST’s technology or join one of the startups already in development.

At the same time, Godlewski is fostering an open-innovation approach by strengthening ties with Luxembourg’s established industries. By collaborating with companies to develop proof-of-concept solutions, LIST Ventures aims to address real-world challenges. “We can accelerate innovation by bringing established players closer to emerging ones,” he says.

Bridging Science and Investment

Another key pillar of his strategy is attracting investors who are keen to back cutting-edge technology fresh from the lab. “This is a compelling opportunity for the right investors,” says Godlewski, who is targeting angel investors, family offices, and venture capital firms specializing in early-stage funding.

“If we work together, we can build ventures that align with the aspirations of scientists, entrepreneurs, and investors from the outset.”

A Leader Connecting Public and Private Sectors

Godlewski, a French-Polish entrepreneur, stepped into the role in March 2025. His career spans investment banking and aerospace, with experience at SES and Thales, followed by a stint at European space fund New Space Capital, where he successfully invested in European space tech startups and scaleups. A long-time mentor and startup connector, he saw LIST Ventures as a unique opportunity to bridge public and private sector innovation.

His expertise allows him to identify research with strong spinoff potential. “More than just technology, we need a viable product—one that solves a real problem and offers a unique value proposition,” he explains. Researcher mentoring and support are critical to shaping innovations into market-ready solutions.

Beyond the technology itself, team dynamics play a crucial role. That’s where the matchmaking comes in. Meanwhile, supporting ventures as they secure funding is the final piece of the puzzle.

Stealth Projects and Future Potential

Godlewski is excited about the vast talent and ideas coming out of LIST, where 550 researchers have already filed over 30 patents.

“We’re currently developing several projects in stealth mode in the construction, food, and health sectors,” he reveals. “At the same time, there are fascinating developments in 6G, AI, biotechnology, and smart materials.”

With a more open and proactive approach, LIST Ventures is positioning itself as a key player in Luxembourg’s innovation ecosystem—turning groundbreaking research into successful ventures.

Jess Bauldry

www.siliconluxembourg.lu/list-ventures-adopts-more-open-and-proactive-approach/