Fusing worlds, bridging disciplines, and removing confusion from innovation
since 1999.
Upen Barve isn’t just an innovator – he’s a movement. With 25+ years of experience and a former VP Strategy role at SAP SE, he brings the rare ability to bridge worlds: from Berlin to Singapore, from startups to Fortune 500s, from Earth to orbit.
Known for creating experiences that defy convention—like hosting conferences in aircraft or building the first drive-in hybrid conference during COVID—Upen transforms the impossible into the inevitable.
Innovation thrives at intersections. Upen orchestrates ecosystems across industries, geographies, and mindsets – bringing together startups, corporates, governments, and academia
to co-create breakthrough solutions.
Result: Strategic alliances that unlock new markets and accelerate transformation.
From future-back strategy to hands-on execution, Upen doesn’t just advise – he builds.
Whether setting up innovation functions, designing immersion weeks, or guiding C-level transformations, he delivers measurable impact.
Result: Clients achieve innovation velocity without sacrificing strategic clarity.
Certified Global Business Transformation Master. 2 patent contributions. Innovator of the Slingshot Model. Published in SAP@50. Every engagement reflects world-class standards, backed by 25 years pioneering global initiatives.
Result: You get battle-tested frameworks, not untested theories.
Whether fusing AI with arts, hosting conferences in aircraft, or bridging space tech with business strategy – Upen creates experiences and solutions that competitors can’t copy because they emerge from unique combinations.
Result: Differentiation that comes from authentic fusion, not imitation.
Strategic Affiliations & Ecosystem Partners
As a founding partner and board member at GIIC e.V., Upen shapes the vision and mission of fostering innovation partnerships between Germany and India. He accelerates cross-border collaboration, facilitates digitalization efforts, and brings together stakeholders from government, business, and academia.
Impact: Bridging two of the world’s fastest-growing innovation ecosystems.
Connecting Asia to Europe through the Berlin Senate-backed platform, Upen promotes communication and collaboration between the Asia-Pacific region and European innovation communities. He coordinates high-profile events like the AsiaBerlin Summit and Embassy Day.
Impact: Creating diplomatic and business bridges across continents.
A curated network of senior executives from diverse industries focused on business transformation and shared learning. Upen leverages this community to exchange cutting-edge methods, case studies, and strategic insights with fellow transformation leaders.
Impact: Peer-to-peer wisdom sharing at the highest level.