Relational capabilities in corporate accelerator programs with startups: a case study in Brazilian industries

Corporate Acceleration Programs (CAPs) represent an emerging way for large companies to engage with startups. However, it is necessary to have relational capabilities (RCs) to coordinate competencies and combine knowledge. This study investigates the presence of RCs in two CAPs of Brazilian industries. A qualitative and descriptive case study was conducted. Data collection was based on the motivations, background and objectives of CAPs and the dimensions and components of RCs. Data analysis occurred by coding the collected information. The results reveal the importance of RCs to identify opportunities, combine and manage resources, adapt to partners' needs, learn with (and together with) them, communicate transparently, and develop collaborative innovations. Theoretically, it allows to use the lens of RCs to analyze aspects of cooperation in CAPs. Practically, it assists managers in cooperating with startups, as well as entrepreneurs of startups that want to partner with large corporations.