Welcome to the fifth annual 2024 Global Innovators 75! A lot has changed in five years... Initiatives to unlock innovation within large companies, such as Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) arms, accelerator programs, and incubators, continue to proliferate from within the top engineering, construction, and real estate firms. More institutions have played a role in the investment, adoption, acceleration, and development of technology in the built environment--and these companies have grown significantly because of it.
As tech and innovation have maturated in the built environment, more industry corporates have surpassed the threshold of the Global Innovators list, which is why we have expanded the list for the first time! BuiltWorlds' 2024 Global Innovators list has now grown to 75 companies, from the original top-50 list, to reflect the integral role that established corporations play in fostering industry innovation.
To underscore the impact these corporations have on the global economy, 2024's Global Innovators generated nearly $2 trillion in annual revenue and employ 3,500,000 people across the globe.
If you'd like your company to be featured on future top lists, check out our applications page for more information on how to apply!
Representatives from the firms comprising the Global Innovators list are invited to attend the Global Innovators Awards Ceremony and Reception at the 2025 Paris Summit. Come network with and learn from the industry's leaders in innovation.
Email research@builtworlds.com or sales@builtworlds.com for more details and to claim your ticket.
Thornton Tomasetti
Employee Count: 1,830
Annual Revenue: $630M
Operating Countries: 50
Thornton Tomasetti optimizes the design and performance of structures, materials, and systems for projects of every size and level of complexity. TT is an independent organization of engineers, scientists, architects, and other professionals who collaborate from offices worldwide to help you achieve your goals.
Thornton Tomasetti has been an active investor and incubator for early-stage built world innovations through its TTWiiN subsidiary. TT is also an active participant in the AEC Angels venture fund.
arcadis
Employee Count: 37,000
Annual Revenue: $5.0B
Operating Countries: 70
Arcadis's 36,000 architects, data analysts, designers, engineers, project planners, water management and sustainability experts help create and manage places where people can live, work and thrive. Arcadis works across every phase of asset creation and management for projects all around the world.
WSP Global
Employee Count: 66,200
Annual Revenue: $14.4B
Operating Countries: 40
WSP Global is a Canadian design business employing 66,200 professionals providing management and consultancy services to the built and natural environment across 40 countries.
WSP is actively engaged in the research, planning, development and implementation of infrastructure technologies that advance the state of the practice.
ARUP
Employee Count: 21,950
Annual Revenue: $2.8B
Operating Countries: 140
Dedicated to sustainable development, Arup is a collective of designers, consultants and experts working across 140 countries. Founded to be both humane and excellent, we collaborate with our clients and partners using imagination, technology and rigour to shape a better world.
Arup Ventures, launched in 2001, invests in ideas and organizations that have a transformative impact on the built environment and help us further our goal of shaping a better, more sustainable world.
Burns & mcdonnell
Employee Count: 12,120
Annual Revenue: $7.4B
Operating Countries: 10
At Burns & McDonnell, engineers, construction professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists do more than plan, design and construct. With a mission unchanged since 1898 — make clients successful — the firm partners with you on the toughest challenges, constantly working to make the world an amazing place.
Burns & McDonnell is a forward-thinking institution and active tech adopter. The company's innovation center boasts a one-of-a-kind 360 LED immersive cave.
AECOM
Employee Count: 73,245
Annual Revenue: $14.4B
Operating Countries: 150
AECOM is a global professional services firm and leader in the infrastructure sector. The company leans on deep technical abilities to solve their clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. AECOM's teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management.
AECOM displays a commitment to digital innovation by leveraging both in-house and external software platforms further the design and engineering space.
jacobs solutions
Employee Count: 45,000
Annual Revenue: $16.4B
Operating Countries: 40
Jacobs challenges today to reinvent tomorrow – delivering outcomes and solutions for the world's most complex challenges. With a team of approximately 45,000, the firm provides end-to-end services in advanced manufacturing, cities & places, energy, environmental, life sciences, transportation and water. From advisory and consulting, feasibility, planning, design, program and lifecycle management, Jacobs is dedicated to creating a more connected and sustainable world.
black & veatch
Employee Count: 11,000
Annual Revenue: $4.7B
Operating Countries: 100
Black & Veatch is an employee-owned, global leader in building critical human infrastructure in Energy, Water, Digital Connectivity and Government Services. Since 1915, the firm has helped its clients improve business operations and the lives of people in over 100 countries through consulting, engineering, construction, operations and program management.
fluor
Employee Count: 34,570
Annual Revenue: $15.5B
Operating Countries: 40
Fluor Corporation is a global engineering, procurement and construction company. Fluor works with leaders in the energy, infrastructure, life sciences, advanced technologies, mining and metals industries, as well as government agencies, to build a better world.
Since its founding in 1912, Flour has been building a legacy of innovation. With over 30,000 employees, the company provides professional and technical solutions to deliver safe, well-executed, capital-efficient projects for global clients.
Wood plc
Employee Count: 34,580
Annual Revenue: $5.9B
Operating Countries: 37
Wood is a global leader in consulting and engineering, delivering critical solutions across energy and materials markets. The company provides consulting, projects and operations solutions in 60 countries, employing around 35,000 people.
Gensler
Employee Count: 7,380
Annual Revenue: $1.8B
Operating Countries: 100
Gensler is a global architecture, design, and planning firm with 57 locations across the Americas, Europe, Greater China, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East. Founded in 1965, Gensler has built a team of 7,000 professionals who partner with clients in over 100 countries each year.
CRH
Employee Count: 75,880
Annual Revenue: $34.9B
Operating Countries: 28
A leading provider of building materials solutions that build, connect, and improve our world. CRH serves the transportation and critical utility infrastructure projects, complex non-residential construction and outdoor living industries. CRH’s unique offering of materials, products and value-added services helps to deliver a more resilient and sustainable built environment.
CRH Ventures' $250M investment fund officially launched in 2022 and has since played a critical role investing in startups across the world focused on decarbonizing the built world. The CRH Ventures team runs multiple accelerators on varying themes relevant to its core business functions: sustainable building materials, roads of the future and water solutions.
HOLCIM
Employee Count: 63,400
Annual Revenue: $30.4B
Operating Countries: 70
Holcim builds progress for people and the planet, employing close to 70,000 who operate across 70 countries, with $30B+ in revenue. As a global leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions, enabling greener cities, smarter infrastructure, and improving living standards around the world.
Holcim is becoming corporate captain in the net-zero materials space and its Accelerator program is looking to optimize the building value chain with sustainability at the core of its strategy. Holcim MAQER Ventures also backs startups and founders reshaping the built environment.
owens corning
Employee Count: 25,000
Annual Revenue: $9.7B
Operating Countries: 31
Owens Corning is a global building and construction materials leader committed to building a sustainable future through material innovation. The company's three integrated businesses – Roofing, Insulation, and Composites – provide durable, sustainable, energy-efficient solutions that leverage the unique material science, manufacturing, and market knowledge Owens Corning possesses.
OC partners and invests in early-stage innovations to support this industry's global maturation.
usg
Employee Count: 5,000
Annual Revenue: $3.5B
Operating Countries: 10
USG Corporation is an industry-leading manufacturer of building products and innovative solutions highlighted by Sheetrock®, Durock®, and Securock® Brands.
Headquartered in Chicago, USG serves construction markets around the world through its Gypsum, Performance Materials and Ceilings divisions.
Developing new solutions to the problems customers face is a core tenet of USG's business. The driving force of USG's innovation acceleration can be found within the walls of its Corporate Innovation Center (CIC). The CIC campus is a state-of-the-art workplace with multiple buildings and laboratories utilized in the research, testing, and analysis of USG products and systems.
cemex
Employee Count: 44,780
Annual Revenue: $17.4B
Operating Countries: 100
Cemex is a leader in construction materials (specifically cement, concrete, & aggregates) with a presence in nearly 100 countries. The concrete giant has nearly 45,000 employees, generating over $17B in annual revenue.
Cemex Ventures is the open innovation arm and the Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) of CEMEX. Cemex invests in construction tech, materials, and industry 4.0 startups to foster industry-advancing innovations. Cemex's Startup Competition focuses on early-stage initiatives at the forefront of next-generation AEC tech. Cemex is one of the most active investors and innovators in the built world.
saint-gobain
Employee Count: 167,000
Annual Revenue: $53.0B
Operating Countries: 76
Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures, and distributes materials & solutions which are key ingredients in the well-being of each of us and the future of all. They can be found everywhere in our living places and our daily lives: in buildings, transportation, infrastructure, and in many industrial applications.
NOVA by Saint-Gobain was one of the earliest corporate venture arms in the building ecosystem. Having launched in 2006, NOVA has been involved in the development of more than 150 "transformational innovations."
titan cement
Employee Count: 5,000
Annual Revenue: $2.7B
Operating Countries: 21
TITAN's mission is to provide innovative construction materials, solutions, and services needed for safe and sustainable homes, buildings and infrastructure that enable people to enjoy life.
With a rich history of over 120 years, the firm's legacy is rooted in innovation and an unwavering commitment to responsible growth. Titan approaches every challenge with an entrepreneurial spirit, focusing on three key areas: ensuring low-carbon operations and supply chains, digitalizing our organization for ultimate efficiency, and delivering cutting-edge solutions to meet our customers’ needs.
Titan operates a CVC arm with a $40M dedicated fund to partner with and invest in disruptive startups in the materials space.
peri
Employee Count: 9,200
Annual Revenue: $1.9B
Operating Countries: 65
With a revenue of €1,847M in 2023, PERI is one of the largest manufacturers and suppliers of formwork and scaffolding systems. With around 9,200 employees and well over 160 warehouse locations in more than 65 countries, the family-owned company with headquarters in Weissenhorn (Germany) serves its customers with innovative system equipment and comprehensive services relating to all aspects of formwork and scaffolding technology.
kingspan
Employee Count: 25,000
Annual Revenue: $9.7B
Operating Countries: 31
Kingspan is on a mission to transform the built environment through inspiration, innovation and insight. The company is a leading provider of insultation and building envelope solutions. The firm's ultimate goal is to improve building performance and contribute to a more sustainable, energy-efficient future for our customers and the environment.
Kingspan is an active investor in startups through its recently launched CVC vehicle, Covolve. Kingspan partners with these leading-edge startups to provide access to the company's global network.
asahi kasei
Employee Count: 49,295
Annual Revenue: $18.3B
Operating Countries: 20
The Asahi Kasei Group contributes to life and living for people around the world. Since its foundation in 1922 with ammonia and cellulose fiber business, Asahi Kasei has consistently grown through the proactive transformation of its business portfolio to meet the evolving needs of every age. With more than 48,000 employees around the world, the company contributes to sustainable society by providing solutions to the world’s challenges through its three business sectors of Material, Homes, and Health Care.
Asahi Kasei displays its commitment to innovation by investing in startups through its CVC arm.
heidelberg materials
Employee Count: 51,000
Annual Revenue: $22.2B
Operating Countries: 50
Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest integrated manufacturers of building materials and solutions with leading market positions in cement, aggregates, and ready-mixed concrete. We are represented in over 50 countries with more than 51,000 employees at almost 3,000 sites
The company is committed to investing in decarbonization.
j.m. huber
Employee Count: 5,000
Annual Revenue: $3.1B
Operating Countries: 20
J.M. Huber Corporation, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia (US), operates, partners and invests in a diverse portfolio of businesses. With locations around the world, the company creates products used in a broad range of applications including personal care, food and beverage, agricultural nutrients and adjuvants, building materials, flame retardants and smoke suppressants, while also providing sustainable forestry services. Founded in 1883, Huber is one of the largest family-owned companies based in the US.
Huber actively acquires and integrates startups into its product suite through its committed internal and external innovation channels.
standard industries
Employee Count: 20,000
Annual Revenue: $11.0B
Operating Countries: 80
Standard Industries is a privately-held global industrial company operating in over 80 countries with over 20,000 employees. The Standard ecosystem spans a broad array of holdings, technologies and investments—including both public and private companies from early to late-stage—as well as world-class building solutions, performance materials, logistics, real estate and next-generation solar technology.
sika
Employee Count: 33,000
Annual Revenue: $13.4B
Operating Countries: 103
Sika is a specialty chemicals company with a globally leading position in the development and production of systems and products for bonding, sealing, damping, reinforcing, and protection in the building sector and automotive industry. Sika has subsidiaries in 103 countries around the world and, in over 400 factories, produces innovative technologies for customers worldwide. In doing so, it plays a crucial role in enabling the transformation of the construction and vehicle industries toward greater environmental compatibility.
UFP Industries
Employee Count: 15,800
Annual Revenue: $7.2B
Operating Countries: 10+
UFP Industries is a holding company whose operating subsidiaries – UFP Packaging, UFP Construction and UFP Retail Solutions – manufacture, distribute and sell a wide variety of products used in residential and commercial construction, packaging and industrial applications. Founded in 1955, the company has operations in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia.
UFP Ventures, the single-LP corporate venture arm of UFP Industries, partners with entrepreneurs to enable the innovation that will shape the futures of construction, packaging, and retail building products industries.
Andersen Corporation
Employee Count: 13,000
Annual Revenue: $3.8B
Operating Countries: 14
For more than 121 years, Andersen has designed, manufactured and marketed premium windows and doors. Andersen is a privately held company, headquartered in Bayport, Minnesota, employing more than 13,000 people in North America and Europe.
Andersen Ventures+, the CVC arm of Andersen Corporation, helps innovators reach their full potential by providing both the investment support to nurture early-stage businesses and the extensive capabilities to help it grow. Access to Andersen's manufacturing scale and global distribution network plays a major role in fostering industry innovation.
vinci construction
Employee Count: 119,380
Annual Revenue: $34.7B
Operating Countries: 131
VINCI is one of the five largest construction companies in the world. The company's external accelerator program, Leonard, has been supporting digitization in the built environment for more than seven years, with mission-critical resources to support startups in this niche.
In 2024, Leonard will support 39 new innovation projects through its Seed and Catalyst programs. Since its creation in 2017, Leonard has supported over 200 startups across AI, deep tech and climate tech to advance innovation in construction, transportation, energy and mobility.
bouygues construction
Employee Count: 32,500
Annual Revenue: $29.7B
Operating Countries: 60
With 32,500 employees working in 60 countries, Bouygues Construction is one of the five largest general contractors in the world. The company designs, builds and rehabilitates the infrastructures and buildings that are essential for a sustainable society. All over the world, the teams support the development of low-carbon energy production and public transport infrastructures and provide their expertise in the design, construction and renovation of buildings and neighborhoods essential to life (health, education, work, tourism, leisure, public services, defense, etc.). The teams' commitment is based on three top priorities: safety culture, respect for human rights and ethics. The Bouygues Group expands beyond construction to service all aspects of the industrial world: telecom, infrastructure, energy, real estate and more.
Bouygues embodies its commitment to innovation through the Bouygues Construction Ventures arm, which is an active investor and catalyst of built world technology across the globe.
ellisdon
Employee Count: 4,000
Annual Revenue: $6.5B
Operating Countries: 11
EllisDon, an employee-owned construction services company that has grown beyond its modest origins in London, Ontario. With over 5,000 salaried and hourly employees across fifteen national and international offices, EllisDon has become a leader in every sector and nearly every facet of the construction industry.
EllisDon has positioned itself as a ‘Cradle To Grave’ Services Provider with guaranteed performance outcomes through its Capital Services, Facilities Management, and Sustainable Buildings Divisions. EllisDon is determined to lead the coming disruption in the construction sector, having recently created pioneering initiatives in Energy Management, Smart Buildings Software and Data Analytics.
EllisDon launched its first accelerator in 2024 focused on solving four guiding principles: Productivity & Efficiency, Environment & Sustainability, Health & Safety, Contract & Legal and Quality Assurance & Quality Control.
skanska
Employee Count: 27,000
Annual Revenue: $14.8B
Operating Countries: 11
Skanska AB is a Sweden-based construction and project development company. The Company's operations are divided into four operating segments: Construction, Residential Development, Commercial Property Development, and Infrastructure Development.
Skanska has been a frontrunner in tech adoption through their initiatives to partner with early and later-stage startups to drive innovation on and off the jobsite.
kajima
Employee Count: 19,800
Annual Revenue: $18.5B
Operating Countries: 20+
Kajima Corporation, founded in 1840 with headquarters in Motoakasaka, Minato, Tokyo, operates both domestically and internationally as a general contractor. They specialize in constructing a wide range of buildings, including commercial, residential, and institutional structures all utilizing advanced technologies and techniques for high-rise and earthquake-resistant construction. They also undertake notable civil engineering projects such as nuclear power plants, highways, and airports. Kajima also engaged in real estate and office automation equipment ventures alongside its construction endeavors.
Kajima is one of the most active pilots of built world technology through its open innovation arm. Kajima also launched The GEAR, a lab for Global Engineering, Architecture and Real Estate, in Singapore as the company's global innovation hub.
0bayashi
Employee Count: 17,000
Annual Revenue: $15.2B
Operating Countries: 16
The Company operates in five segments (domestic construction, overseas construction, real estate development, and green energy) employing 17,000 across 16 countries, with its 86 subsidiaries and 26 affiliated companies.
Obayashi's Silicon Valley Venture Laboratory (SVVL), actively tests new startup technology in its state-of-the-art Bay Area facility, in its highly-active due diligence heavy venture investment approach.
Grupo Casais
Employee Count: 5,960
Annual Revenue: $780M
Operating Countries: 17
The Casais Group is currently one of the largest in the construction sector in Portugal, with a wide range of businesses, asserting itself in areas as diverse as Engineering, Commerce, Industry, Tourism, Real Estate, Environment, Energy and Services, presenting “turnkey” solutions suited to the expectations of customers and business partners.
takenaka
Employee Count: 13,510
Annual Revenue: $10.2B
Operating Countries: 22
Osaka-based Takenaka Corporation, is one of five major general contractors in Japan, with a global presence that spans much further than its own Island country.
Takenaka exemplifies industry-shaping innovation initiatives through accelerator programs, LP investments into VC funds, and more.
dpr construction
Employee Count: 11,000
Annual Revenue: $9.2B
Operating Countries: 16
Founded in 1990, DPR Construction is a forward-thinking, self-performing general contractor and construction manager specializing in technically complex and sustainable projects for the advanced technology/mission critical, life sciences, healthcare, higher education and commercial markets. DPR’s portfolio of work ranges from large-scale new construction to small tenant improvements and special projects.
DPR is an active adopter of technology through its innovative business units and entrepreneurial culture. The company also invests directly in startups through its CVC arm, WND Ventures.
Goldbeck
Employee Count: 12,500
Annual Revenue: $6.7B
Operating Countries: 19
GOLDBECK realizes future-oriented properties across Europe. The company regards these buildings as products and services; its clients as a one-stop shop: from design and construction to services during operation.
Goldbeck invests heavily in research and development efforts to fuel the future of construction.
Turner Construction
Employee Count: 12,000
Annual Revenue: $16.3B
Operating Countries: 60
Turner is a North America-based, international construction services company and is a leading builder in diverse and numerous market segments. The company has earned recognition for undertaking large, complex projects, fostering innovation, embracing emerging technologies, and making a difference for their clients, employees and community.
Turner recognizes the importance of innovation and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. A key element of the company's vision is to develop and embrace emerging technologies and processes. As part of Turner's effort to achieve this vision, Turner has a culture where employees share their ideas and engagement with one another to develop innovative ideas as well as evaluate and implement internal improvements.
nesmsa & Partners
Employee Count: 45,000
Operating Countries: 28+
Nesma & Partners is the leading contracting company in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It delivers reliable and innovative solutions to some of the world's biggest energy, construction, and infrastructure challenges today.
The Company was established in 1981 to meet the growing demands of an emerging economy in the rapidly developing Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Nesma & Partners is owned by four shareholders: Nesma Contracting Limited, Alturki Holding, Rawabi Holding, and the Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Inspired by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 mission, Nesma & Partners is committed to advancing in key construction sector industries and focused on responsibility to deliver sustainable mega-projects that shape a brighter future.
ferrovial
Employee Count: 24,190
Annual Revenue: $7.9B
Operating Countries: 50+
Ferrovial, SA is a Spanish multinational company involved in the design, construction, financing, operation and maintenance of transportation infrastructure and urban services.
Ferrovial is an active adopter of new technologies and an active participant in global innovation initiatives, such as the Cemex Startup Challenge.
siemens
Employee Count: 320,000
Annual Revenue: $84.0B
Operating Countries: 190
Siemens AG is a leading technology company focused on industry, infrastructure, transport, and healthcare. From more resource-efficient factories, resilient supply chains, and smarter buildings and grids, to cleaner and more comfortable transportation as well as advanced healthcare, the company creates technology with purpose adding real value for customers. By combining the real and the digital worlds, Siemens empowers its customers to transform their industries and markets, helping them to transform the everyday for billions of people.
acciona
Employee Count: 45,000
Annual Revenue: $18.7B
Operating Countries: 60
ACCIONA is at the forefront of a different way of doing business: Business as Unusual, which aims to generate benefits far beyond the corporate.
Driven by the will to leave a positive legacy for society and design a better planet, Acciona is committed to the development of solutions in renewable energy, sustainable water management, and regenerative infrastructures.
Acciona leverages innovation centers, like its Digital Hub, to capture and further the value of data, AI, IoT, immersive tech, robotics, 3D printing and smart cities.
bechtel
Employee Count: 55,000
Annual Revenue: $20.2B
Operating Countries: 160
Bechtel is a trusted engineering, construction and project management partner to industry and government. Since 1898, the company has completed more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place.
Bechtel serves the Energy; Infrastructure; Manufacturing & Technology; Mining & Metals; and Nuclear, Security & Environmental markets. The company's services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations.
aramco
Employee Count: 70,000
Annual Revenue: $535.2B
Operating Countries: 50+
Aramco is a leading producer of the energy and chemicals that drive global commerce and enhance the daily lives of people around the globe by continuing delivering an uninterrupted supply of energy to the world.
Aramco credits resilience and agility in enabling the company to grow to one of the world’s largest integrated energy and chemicals companies.
Through its CVC arm, Aramco Ventures, the company is able to invest globally in startups and technologies that have the ability to scale and disrupt.
GS group
Employee Count: 36,000
Annual Revenue: $17.5B
Operating Countries: 10
GS Group is a global conglomerate based in Seoul, Korea operating in the retail, energy, real estate and construction industries.
GS Group's commitment to innovation and sustainable development has positioned it as a key player in South Korea's economic landscape. With a focus on future growth, the conglomerate continues to expand its influence in various sectors both domestically and internationally.
GS Futures is an early-stage venture fund tackling hard problems, supported by the GS Group, investing in the futures of Climate & Energy Transition Tech, Construction & Real Estate Tech, and Consumer Tech.
american tower corporation
Employee Count: 64,400
Annual Revenue: $11.1B
Operating Countries: 25
Founded in 1995, American Tower Corporation, one of the largest global Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), is a leading independent owner, operator and developer of wireless and broadcast communications real estate. The global portfolio includes nearly 225,000 communications sites, including nearly 43,000 properties in the United States and Canada and nearly 182,000 properties internationally.
American Tower develops strategic partnerships with select vendors, who can prove they have the products, skills, and drive to support American Tower's goal of exceeding customer expectations.
sacyr
Employee Count: 44,000
Annual Revenue: $4.9B
Operating Countries: 20+
Sacyr is a global group, listed in the Ibex 35, Spain's stock market index. The company has activities in more than 20 countries on four continents, where it undertakes innovative, high-value projects.
The company works to ensure society advances toward a sustainable future through the development and management of infrastructures that have a positive social, economic, and environmental impact.
Sacyr Open Innovation is committed to addressing specific challenges and search for solutions focused on improving citizens' quality of life through better infrastructures and services. The team accepts inbound proposals for corporate initiatives through the Sacyr iChallenges Campaign and Open Innovation gateway.
schneider electric
Employee Count: 168,000
Annual Revenue: $38.8B
Operating Countries: 100
Schneider Electric is a global industrial player bringing world-leading expertise in electrification, automation and digitization to smart industries, resilient infrastructure, future-proof data centers, intelligent buildings, and intuitive homes. Anchored by deep domain expertise, the company provides integrated end-to-end lifecycle AI enabled Industrial IoT solutions with connected products, automation, software and services, delivering digital twins to enable profitable growth for our customers.
SE Ventures, the CVC arm of Schneider Electric, is a $1B+ single-LP VC firm based in Menlo Park, California. The firm backs bold entrepreneurs in Industrial & Climate Tech and drive commercial acceleration for portfolio startups by tapping into the deep domain expertise and global customer base of Schneider Electric.
Grupo ACS
Employee Count: 135,400
Annual Revenue: $37.5B
Operating Countries: 70
Grupo ACS (ACS Group) is a global operator and provider of sustainable infrastructure headquartered in Madrid. The company integrates leading companies in engineering, civil construction and building, as well as innovative solutions for new generation projects in emerging sectors such as energy transition, digitalization and smart mobility.
Grupo ACS is committed to applying the latest technological advances to offer global solutions and promote excellence and sustainability.
totalenergies
Employee Count: 105,000
Annual Revenue: $54.8B
Operating Countries: 130
TotalEnergies SE is a European multinational integrated energy and petroleum company founded in 1924. The company operates through a network of subsidiaries providing crude oil and natural gas exploration and production, as well as critical energy infrastructure. The company is a leader in grid-scale renewable energy.
stanley black & Decker
Employee Count: 56,000
Annual Revenue: $15.8B
Operating Countries: 41
Founded in 1843, Stanley Black & Decker provides the tools and solutions to power those shaping and reshaping our physical world. Stanley Black & Decker provides tools, fasteners and infrastructure systems to enable the built environment.
Stanley Ventures, the CVC arm of Stanley Black & Decker, is an active strategic investor and innovator in built environment startups.
caterpillar
Employee Count: 113,200
Annual Revenue: $67.1B
Operating Countries: 197
For nearly 100 years, Caterpillar has been a leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives.
CAT Ventures invests and accelerates built environment startups through direct investment and pilot programs with the companies many business units.
volvo ce
Employee Count: 16,400
Annual Revenue: $9.5B
Operating Countries: 140
Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) is a global leader in construction solutions, delivering premium products and services that combine power and performance. Founded in 1832, Volvo CE provides industry-leading haulers, loaders, excavators and much more, all built to suit the demands of construction and infrastructure needs.
Volvo Group Venture Capital, the Volvo Group's external innovation and corporate venture vehicle, has invested in over 100 startups since 1997, providing immeasurable impact on the automotive, industrial, and construction industries.
hitachi
Employee Count: 26,230
Annual Revenue: $9.9B
Operating Countries: 120
Since its founding in 1910, Hitachi aims to advance social infrastructure systems and improve quality of life across the world. The company was initially founded has an electrical machinery manufacturing subsidiary and has since grown to encompass digital systems, power and renewable energy, railway systems, healthcare products, and financial systems.
kubota
Employee Count: 52,000
Annual Revenue: $20.1B
Operating Countries: 120
Kubota Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells a range of machinery, and other industrial and consumer products in Japan and other Asian countries, North America, Europe, and other countries. Its Farm & Industrial Machinery segment provides farm equipment; ancillary tools and implements for agriculture; outdoor power equipment; engines for farming, construction, industrial machinery, and generators; and construction machinery. The company's Water & Environment segment provides critical water infrastructure.
Kubota operates an Innovation Center in Silicon Valley that actively explores new technologies to advance its business practices.
Komatsu
Employee Count: 65,735
Annual Revenue: $26.4B
Operating Countries: 140
Komatsu is a global leader in manufacturing construction and mining equipment, offering advanced machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders, and dump trucks. The company specializes in innovative technologies--including autonomous and fuel-efficient systems--to improve efficiency and sustainability in construction projects. Komatsu also provides integrated solutions and services like fleet management and maintenance support to enhance productivity and reduce operational costs.
Komatsu has been an industry pioneer in software-enabled equipment to further smart construction and mining.
hilti
Employee Count: 34,000
Annual Revenue: $7.3B
Operating Countries: 120
Hilti is a multinational company that develops, manufactures, and markets tools, technology, software, and services for the construction, building maintenance, and energy sectors. The company is headquartered in Liechtenstein and primarily serves professional construction and industrial workers.
Hilti Ventures partners and invests in founders that have the potential to transform the construction industry.
deere & co.
Employee Count: 83,000
Annual Revenue: $61.3B
Operating Countries: 30
John Deere is a global leader in manufacturing agricultural, construction, forestry, and turf equipment, as well as offering advanced technologies and services to optimize productivity and efficiency. Deere manufactures heavy machinery for construction such as excavators, loaders, dozers and more.
John Deere's Startup Collaborators accelerator program was launched in 2019 to deepen the company's interaction with startup companies whose technology could add value for ag and construction customers.
prologis
Employee Count: 2,500
Annual Revenue: $8.0B
Operating Countries: 19
Prologis, Inc. is the global leader in logistics real estate. In partnership with customers and our communities, the company develops modern, high-quality properties that set the standard for innovative building design and sustainability. Prologis owns or has investments in properties and development projects of ~1.2 billion square feet in 19 countries and enables 2.8% of the world’s GDP.
Beyond real estate, Prologis's Essentials platform optimizes the company’s global asset portfolio to provide customers solutions that address today’s warehouse and shipping challenges. Prologis Ventures invests in logistics innovation and technology companies to modernize supply chains worldwide.
lendlease
Employee Count: 11,000
Annual Revenue: $6.7B
Operating Countries: 41
Lendlease is a global real estate and investment group specializing in property development, construction and investment management. The company operates across urban regeneration, infrastructure and real estate sectors, creating sustainable and innovative solutions for communities.
Lendlease actively partners with, accelerates and invests in startups and entrepreneurs around the world to further innovation in the built environment.
CBRE
Employee Count: 130,000
Annual Revenue: $32.0B
Operating Countries: 100+
CBRE is a global leader in commercial real estate services, providing solutions across property sales, leasing, investment management, facilities management and project development.
The company drives innovation through advanced technologies like its host platform for smart building management, AI-driven data analytics for market insights, and workplace solutions to enhance client efficiency. CBRE also invests in sustainability initiatives, such as net-zero carbon strategies and green building certifications, to address environmental challenges. By leveraging cutting-edge tools and partnerships, CBRE continually transforms real estate operations, optimizing value for clients and redefining the built environment.
jones land lasalle (jll)
Employee Count: 26,230
Annual Revenue: $9.9B
Operating Countries: 120
JLL is a global real estate and investment management firm offering services in property leasing, sales, facilities management, and project development. JLL shapes the future of real estate for a better world by using the most advanced technology to create rewarding opportunities, amazing spaces and sustainable real estate solutions.
JLL Spark is the firm's CVC vehicle that actively invests in PropTech transforming the real estate owner and operator experience.
brookfield properties
Employee Count: 240,000
Annual Revenue: $4.1B
Operating Countries: 30+
Brookfield Properties is a global real estate development and operating company, primarily focused on retail, office, and multifamily properties. As a subsidiary of Brookfield Asset Management, it owns, manages, and develops a diverse portfolio of properties across major markets worldwide, including shopping centers, office buildings, and mixed-use developments.
As a part of the global alternative investment manager, Brookfield Asset Management, the company plays a major role in the development and innovation of the built space through its invested capital.
cushman & wakefield
Employee Count: 52,000
Annual Revenue: $9.5B
Operating Countries: 60
Cushman & Wakefield is a real estate firm providing property leasing, sales, investment management, and facilities management. The company leverages data-driven insights, innovative technologies, and market expertise to deliver value to clients and optimize their real estate portfolios.
tishman speyer
Employee Count: 3,000
Annual Revenue: $1.0B
Operating Countries: 11
As a diversified developer, operator, and investment manager of top-tier real estate across the US, Europe, Asia and South America, Tishman Speyer creates vibrant destinations and dynamic environments that inspire innovation and connected communities. The company's portfolio spans luxury and affordable residential communities, premier office properties and retail spaces, industrial facilities, and mixed-use campuses.
Tishman Speyer creates state-of-the-art life science centers through the Breakthrough Properties joint venture, and fosters innovation through its proptech platform, TS Ventures. The firm is dedicated to driving transformative growth for customers, investors and greater communities.
hines
Employee Count: 5,000
Annual Revenue: $1.0B
Operating Countries: 25
Hines is a leading global real estate investment manager owning and operating $93.0B of assets. Hines focuses on sustainable growth, innovation, and delivering value through strategic real estate investments and development projects.
Mitsui Fudosan
Employee Count: 20,000
Annual Revenue: $15.5B
Operating Countries: 10+
Mitsui Fudosan is one of Japan's largest real estate developers, involved in the development, management, and investment of residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties. With a global presence in over 10 countries, the company focuses on creating innovative, sustainable urban spaces and delivering value through its diverse real estate portfolio.
Mitsui Fudosan invests in smart cities and PropTech though its CVC arm.
nemetschek group
Employee Count: 3,450
Annual Revenue: $920.0M
Operating Countries: 142
The Nemetschek Group is a leading software provider for digital transformation in the AEC/O and media industries. Its intelligent software solutions cover the entire lifecycle of building and infrastructure projects and enable creatives to optimize their workflows. The software provider is driving innovations such as digital twins, open standards (OPEN BIM), sustainability, and AEC/O digitization by actively investing in deep-tech startups through its CVC, Nemetschek Ventures.
trimble
Employee Count: 12,700
Annual Revenue: $3.8B
Operating Countries: 150
Trimble is a technology company that provides innovative solutions for industries such as construction, agriculture, and transportation. Its products include 3D modeling, project management, and construction software that improve efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration throughout the lifecycle of building and infrastructure projects. Trimble's tools, including surveying equipment, laser scanning, and BIM software, are designed to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and support construction.
Trimble is an active catalyst in built world innovation through its CVC vehicle, Trimble Ventures, and numerous accelerator programs, like SketchUp 0-60 and the Cemex Startup Challenge.
bentley systems
Employee Count: 5,000
Annual Revenue: $1.2B
Operating Countries: 50+
Bentley Systems is a global software company that specializes in providing engineering solutions for the design, construction, and operation of infrastructure, including buildings, roads, bridges, and utilities. The company's software suite includes tools for BIM, geospatial data management, and asset management, helping infrastructure professionals optimize project workflows, improve collaboration, and ensure sustainability. Bentley Systems is an active acquirer of later-stage tech startups. Bentley also makes direct startup investmets through its CVC, Bentley iTwin Ventures.
autodesk
Employee Count: 14,100
Annual Revenue: $5.0B
Operating Countries: 150+
Autodesk's technological suite spans architecture, engineering, construction, product design, manufacturing, and media and entertainment. The company empowers innovators in a range of industries.
Autodesk Construction Cloud connects workflows, teams and data at every stage of construction to reduce risk, maximize efficiency, and increase profits. Autodesk seeks to provide a single source of truth throughout the construction lifecycle.
Autodesk is engaged in innovation projects ranging from research projects, residencies, direct startup investment and acquisitions of built world solution providers, growing its portfolio of offerings.
hexagon
Employee Count: 24,500
Annual Revenue: $5.9B
Operating Countries: 50
Hexagon is a global leader in digital solutions, providing advanced technologies in areas such as geospatial data, industrial automation, and smart manufacturing. The company offers software and hardware solutions that enable businesses to optimize processes, enhance data analysis, and improve decision-making, with a strong focus on industries like construction, energy, agriculture, and transportation. Hexagon is an active acquirer of built world solution providers.
johnson controls
Employee Count: 100,000
Annual Revenue: $26.8B
Operating Countries: 150+
Johnson Controls is a global leader in building technologies and sustainable solutions, specializing in smart building systems, energy management and HVAC. The company provides integrated solutions to optimize energy efficiency, improve indoor air quality and enhance building performance for commercial, residential and industrial sectors. Johnson Controls also focuses on developing smart cities, automation and sustainability.
glodon
Employee Count: 10,350
Annual Revenue: $6.6B
Operating Countries: 100+
Glodon is a provider of construction technology solutions, specializing in cost management, project estimation and construction data services. The company's software and digital tools help construction professionals improve project planning, budgeting, and cost control, driving efficiency and accuracy across the construction lifecycle. Glodon was founded in 1998 in Beijing, China.
Dassault Systemes
Employee Count:10,350
Annual Revenue: $6.6B
Operating Countries: 100+
Dassault Systèmes is a global leader in 3D design software, product lifecycle management, and digital twin technology, helping companies innovate and transform their product development processes. Its platforms, including CATIA, SOLIDWORKS, and ENOVIA, are used across industries such as aerospace, automotive, construction, and healthcare to improve product design, collaboration, and manufacturing efficiency. Dassault has been a pioneer in computer-aided design.
BuiltWorlds Global Innovators Qualifications
- Must be a recognized global leader in the built environment with market-guiding expertise in one or more of the following AECO areas:
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Commercial Construction
- Tools, Equipment, & Machinery
- Building Management & Operations
- Infrastructure & Energy
- Market Driving Technology
- Involvement in advancing the built world through innovation-driving initiative(s):
- Corporate Venture Fund
- Accelerator Program
- Demo Day Competitions
- Internal incubators
- Innovative Spinouts
- Synergizing M&A Activity
- Presence in at least 10 countries
- Generates annual revenue of >$500M
- Employee count >1,000
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