Ivo van Breukelen

The Proptech Connection

With offices in Sydney, Chicago, Riyadh, Amsterdam and Bangkok, The Proptech Connection ("The PTC") is the world's only global independent Proptech advisory specialist. 

The Proptech Connection is dedicated to the world of property related technologies and innovations.

-We help Real Estate + AEC companies to source the right technologies for their business.
-We help CVC’s + institutional investors understand and invest in technologies that match their portfolio aspirations.
-We help proptechs to position themselves in market, so that their value is understood and translatable to business + strategic international growth.

Our reach is global, and with over 18,000 Proptechs within our sourcing network, we have the insights and the perspective to bring the best solution for every real estate, construction or engineering use case.

We are the knowledge source for global Proptech inquiry.

The PTC in #s:
•	Largest market intelligence platform, tracking global Proptech’s (18,000+) with > 2,700+ founders interviewed or companies assessed from a potential investment lens. 
•	> 140,000+ people in the PTC network. Globally situated with Real estate, Technology or Investment lens
•	Extensive global Investor + TechBuyer network of decision-makers within the converging worlds of Proptech, Cleantech and Urbantech
•	Proptech’s largest LinkedIn Newsletter following (>56,000+). Our newsletter is the market leader in Proptech and how Real Estate is evolving globally

Keynote presentations & Guest lectures by our management team:
•	World Economic Forum (April 2022 NYC)
•	Bloomberg quote
•	Realcomm (July 2022 Orlando): 150+ CIOs/CTOs global leading real estate companies
•	Guest lectures Harvard + MIT
•	Monthly insights on Proptech for "Property Chronicle" (2,000+ senior capital deployers)
•	Keynotes: Urban Land Institute, Realcomm, IREI, CoreNet etc.
•	Keynotes at real estate agencies, corporates, industry associations & real estate "think tanks".

www.theproptechconnection.com

Managing Partner (USA/UK/EU) + Head of Origination 

Urban Land Institute

A research paper for the Urban Land Institute on the future of data centers + alternative energy suppliers, in conjunction with $50bn asset manager.

ULI Real Estate Tech + Innovation + market research on AI + data + energy

Advanced Architectural Products, a 2019 Inc. 500 Fastest Growing Company

Advanced Architectural Products delivers SMARTci, which is an innovative, simple and complete system designed to address the inadequacies of other traditional installations. 

A2P has created an incredibly innovative and necessary solution in today's energy saving construction environment and combines decades of real-world, multidisciplinary design and engineering experience with proven materials to create an easy-to-use, patent-protected, potentially game-changing product.

A2P main focus is pushing the boundaries around the future of the built environment with regards to  sustainability and how that plays into corporate ESG strategies to address some of the most urgent challenges of (commercial) developments.

Managing Director

Sempergreen Group

Storm water is one of the largest polluters of our US waterways.
Policy changes driven by EPA rules continuously create and widen potential market. 

Sempergreen offers sustainable solutions to create instant green roofs focused on storm water retention in a dynamic and relatively new segment of the construction and design industry. 

Sempergreen mature sedum mats have been grown in an outdoor environment for more than twelve months which makes them as hardy as possible once they are installed on a rooftop. 
This is also the most cost effective way to create instant plant coverage on your green roof project with the lowest possible maintenance requirements while enduring the highest wind uplift situations.

The products are part of green roof programs offered by waterproofing membrane companies in North America and have been installed on hundreds green roof projects

Take advantage of 21 years of international know-how and experience in the European, Asian and North America markets.

Global Business Development

Connaxis

I led Connaxis global operations across all business units in the Americas (7 countries).

As country manager I led our teams and was ultimately responsible for optimizing ROI, executing sales strategy and expand business development team with channel partners. 

It has given me the opportunity to travel across S-America and develop in-depth understanding of different cultures and business practices.

Winel B.V.

Appointed by the CEO of Winel B.V. as deputy director of Winel Vietnam. In that role I was responsible for starting a factory in Vietnam, an equivalent of the dutch factory, headquarted in Assen (the Netherlands). I had to report directly to the Board Of Management in the Netherlands. My tasks consisted of, but were not limited to, being responsible for the daily process, maintain and improve relations with external parties (i.e. bank, accountant and public officials/institutions), business negotiations with local and regional suppliers/customers (Vietnam, China, Singapore, Malaysia, South-Korea and Japan) recruiting and contracting employees, manage the capital request and budgeting processes, and implement the (general) strategy that was set by CEO and provide monthly management reports. 

After successfully expanding the factory from 0 to 65 FTE (within 3 years) I decided to relocate to S-America to undertake another/new big challenge.

Director Winel Vietnam

Managing Partner (US/EUR/UK) at The Proptech Connection, the world's only global INDEPENDENT proptech advisory firm. I lead origination, investor relationships, network and strategic partnership globally. Our team prides itself with an extensive network of decision-makers across the entire Proptech ecosystem, including Fortune 500s and strategic investors + (mid-market) Private Equity funds.

We continuously advise + represent a number of corporate investors with market research + strategic deal sourcing, data-led intelligence in a global context. We leverage our proprietary datasets and 3x digital market intelligence platforms as a means to deliver insights and foster connections. Pre-qualified, curated, global, direct access.

I am a strong believer in the role of technology and innovation as a means to deliver growth in real estate and construction + believe we are just at the start of the cycle. 

We also provide access, strategic advice and market intelligence.

The Proptech Connection is tracking > 19,000 techs, 10,000 investors and having built our own market intelligence platforms, the PTC leverages these to provide market leading insights and curation of relevant partners.

The PTC helps all market participants - real estate, investors and Proptechs - by being:

-An innovation and technology sourcing specialist for real estate + construction companies
-An origination source and transaction support for CVCs seeking to invest in Proptechs
-A capital raising actor for Proptechs
-A growth development advisor for Proptechs

Our reach is global, and with over 19,000 Proptechs within our sourcing network, we have the insights and the perspective to bring the best solution for every property use case.

I personally have proudly presented guest lectures at both Harvard and MIT, as well as keynoted at the leading real estate (tech) conferenes globally how tech is rapidly changing real estate assets. The world is at a pivotal moment where energy + real estate are converging, with rapid deployment of tech.

Our firm has collectively interviewed + evaluated 3,400+ Proptechs/Cleantechs. We have written research reports that were published by CoreNet, IREI, Urban Land Institute to name a few.

We work with some of the leading global real estate entities + VC funds on their tech execution or sourcing strategies, where our unique insights + position, deliver tangible results. 

Events engage with us for market research and (unbiased) data-led keynotes.

Managing Partner

With offices in Sydney, Bangkok, Amsterdam and Chicago the PTC is the world's only global Proptech advisory specialist. We help all actors (Proptechs, Investors and Tech Buyers) navigate the Proptech ecosystem allowing them to source and find the right technology for their commercial plans. In short, the PTC is:

An Innovation/Technology sourcing resource for Real Estate companies,
An Origination source for Proptech Investors.
A Business Development resource for Proptechs &
A Capital introduction and Advisory resource for Proptechs.

www.theproptechconnection.com

#Dubai is investing $35B to transform Al Maktoum International into the world’s largest airport, designed for 260M passengers annually with five runways and 400 gates. 

More than an airport, it’s an aerotropolis—integrating logistics, tech, and commerce to future-proof global connectivity.

Make sure to follow The Proptech Connection to stay ahead of the market in #proptech and how tech is transforming #realestate + construction.

And subscribe to our weekly newsletter here: https://lnkd.in/g_e4QVDH

#AviationInnovation #InfrastructureDevelopment

Managing Partner (US/EUR/UK) at The Proptech Connection, the world's only global independent proptech advisory firm. I lead origination, investor relationships, network and strategic partnership function. Our team prides itself with an extensive network of decision-makers across the entire Proptech ecosystem, including Fortune 500s and other strategics.

I am a strong believer in the role of technology and innovation as a means to deliver growth in real estate and construction + believe we are just at the start of the cycle. 

We also provide access, strategic advice and market intelligence to proptechs, real estate companies and investors.  

The Proptech Connection is dedicated to the world of property related technologies and innovations.

-We help Real Estate companies to source the right technologies for their business.
-We help Corporate VCs to understand and invest in technologies that match their portfolio aspirations.
-We help proptechs to position themselves in market, so that their value is understood and translatable to business.

Our reach is global, and with over 18,000 Proptechs within our sourcing network, we have the insights and the perspective to bring the best solution for every property use case.

I have presented guest lectures at both Harvard and MIT. 

Our firm has collectively interviewed + evaluated 3,400+ Proptechs/Cleantechs + have the most extensive (and industry first) market intelligence platforms to deliver insights to our clients.

We work with some of the leading global real estate entities + VC funds on their tech execution or sourcing strategies, where our unique insights + position, deliver tangible results. 

Events engage with us for market research and (unbiased) data-led keynotes on how tech is transforming real estate fundamentally.

Origination | Venture Capital + M&A | 1,450 Investor Relations | Data intelligence | MIT + Harvard Lecturer |RE Innovation & Tech Sourcing (Independent) | CVC Investment | Global Keynotes | 123k+ network,60k+ newsletter

The WalkON Suit F1 is a breakthrough in assistive robotics, enabling wheelchair users to stand and walk again. Developed by KAIST and Angel Robotics, this AI-powered exoskeleton debuted at the Cybathlon, showcasing how engineering and empathy can redefine independence.

As Proptech evolves, innovations like this remind us that accessibility must be built into the foundation of smart cities and smart buildings — not added as an afterthought.

#Exoskeleton #AssistiveTech #Proptech #Robotics #WheelchairLife

The JX-6A Water Rescue Drone, developed in China, is an innovative “flying lifebuoy” designed for swift emergency response in water rescues. 

Built for speed, stability, and precision, it can rapidly reach people in distress and provides a buoyancy force of 190N—sufficient to keep up to three adults afloat. 

Now certified and entering mass production, this advanced device marks a major improvement over conventional rescue techniques, making it a promising safety solution for use on beaches, ships, and other waterfront environments.

In Iceland, the world’s largest direct air capture (DAC) facility, called “Mammoth,” has officially begun operations. Built by the Swiss company Climeworks, the plant removes carbon dioxide directly from the air and stores it permanently underground by converting it into stone.

Roughly ten times larger than its predecessor, Orca, Mammoth is powered by Iceland’s plentiful geothermal energy. Although this marks a major step forward in carbon removal technology and the global effort to combat climate change, the approach remains in its early stages—currently limited by high operational costs and the need for large-scale expansion to achieve meaningful global impact.

NEOM’s vision challenges conventional urban design. 

Despite skepticism over cost and feasibility, such giga-projects push boundaries and spark #innovation for future cities.

#FutureCities #UrbanInnovation #MegaProjects

China has unveiled the world’s first zero-carbon intelligent port terminal in Tianjin. Powered entirely by renewable energy, it features autonomous electric vehicles and fully automated cranes—marking a major step toward sustainable, tech-driven global logistics.

#GreenLogistics #SmartInfrastructure #SustainableShipping

A weather-responsive roof system in China has generated global interest, showcasing a significant shift towards buildings that adapt to their environment in real time. 

This innovation paves the way for climate-conscious design, energy efficiency, and enhanced user experience. Features such as retractable roofs and dynamic façades illustrate how adaptive architecture is becoming a crucial differentiator in both residential and commercial developments.

It's important to note that technology does not have to be complex to make an impact; it simply needs to be relevant.

AI-driven robotics is stepping into one of the toughest jobs—cleaning public spaces and hotel bathrooms. Robots like Zerith H1 are already scrubbing toilets, wiping sinks, and restocking amenities in real-world environments, not just labs. 

This shift could free humans from repetitive, hazardous tasks and open opportunities for safer, higher-value roles. 

The question now is how industries, including real estate and hospitality, will adapt to integrate these innovations into their operations.

#HospitalityTech #SmartBuildings #AIInnovation

This is not Europe. This is a data center park in Guizhou, China. Every large building in the picture is a data center.

 This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a strategic choice that reframes how we perceive utility, innovation, and place.

In Proptech and real estate, this underscores a growing trend: design and narrative can transform functional assets into aspirational ones. 

Whether it's a smart building, a digital twin, or a mixed-use precinct, the way we present infrastructure matters.

While European automakers focus on corporate language, CO₂ targets, and branding campaigns, Chinese manufacturers like BYD are scaling aggressively—building a factory projected to surpass San Francisco in size..... 

Strategic priorities matter, and the global auto industry is being reshaped faster than many realize (whether we like it or not).

#AutomotiveIndustry #GlobalCompetition #Manufacturing #Innovation

A German research group from the Munich University of Applied Sciences, working together with the Technical University of Munich and a cable car manufacturer, is experimenting with a new type of tidal power plant that uses kite-based technology.

Called “cableKites,” the system features small kites attached to a continuous cable loop positioned underwater in a tidal current. As the kites move in a figure-eight trajectory, they accelerate the motion of the turbines, boosting electricity generation.

Drawing inspiration from ski lift mechanics, this innovative design seeks to capture tidal energy more effectively—even in areas where the water flow is relatively slow.

Germany is now ranked #5 globally for unicorns—surpassing France, Canada, and Singapore. 

While often seen as slow-moving, its startup ecosystem thrives on deep tech, logistics, and enterprise solutions rather than hype. 

For founders eyeing Europe, Germany offers scale and substance over flash.

#StartupEcosystem #InnovationLeadership #VentureCapital

A new “Tension Buoy” system has been developed to enhance floating solar installations on reservoirs and hydropower dams where water levels frequently change.

The system’s innovation centers on an integrated automatic winch that continuously adjusts the mooring line length, maintaining ideal tension as water levels fluctuate. 

This advancement effectively overcomes a major limitation of conventional mooring systems, which often become overly tight or too loose when faced with varying water conditions.

Asia dominates The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 list with 19 entries, while Dubai secures three spots and continues to raise the bar with iconic developments like Atlantis The Royal. Industry trends point to Asia as the future of luxury hospitality investment, but emerging markets like Saudi Arabia are poised to reshape rankings in the coming years.

#LuxuryHospitality #TravelTrends #HotelIndustry

Data centers are quietly reshaping the U.S. energy map.

In 2023, Virginia alone saw 25.6% of its electricity consumed by data centers, the highest share in the country. Other states like Oregon, Iowa, and Nebraska also show double-digit percentages.

Why does this matter?
AI and cloud growth are driving unprecedented energy demand.
Grid resilience and renewable integration will become critical.
Real estate and infrastructure planning must account for power-intensive assets.

How should states balance economic growth from data centers with rising energy strain?

#DataCenters #Energy #AIInfrastructure #Sustainability #DigitalTransformation

While real estate has long been thought of as a mature industry with many outdated practices, the past decade has seen vast improvement through digitalisation the adoption of other technologies. 

Much of the language used by leading firms demonstrates their commitment to innovation and technology. 

Despite this, survey results from the World Economic Forum  depict a different story, where real estate is still lagging behind all other industries in terms of planned strategies for automation or augmentation of the workforce. 

It's clear the future is #AI in some form. 

Strategies are generally broken down into two categories; automation strategies, where workloads are completely automated, or augmentation strategies, where AI complements the existing workforce. 

Real estate needs to continue strong efforts to integrate innovation into offerings and operations to keep up with productivity and demand surrounding industries are adapting to. 

#AI #Futurofwork #strategy

Chart source: World Economic Forum, Future of Jobs Survey 2024

Our latest newsletter, make sure to subscribe and join > 60,000+ others with weekly updates and insights!

An example of our analysis of #tech + #data center real estate: https://lnkd.in/eEAe-ARN

Some of The Proptech Connection's work:
- A fortune 500 company seeking to build / deploy modular data centers in the USA
- A deepdive of the top 200 techs in data centers across: energy infra (e.g SMRs), network (e.g fiber optics + LEOs), management tools (VPPs) + emerging techs (e.g modular DCs for edge + edge AI) 

Please DM how to work with us

#AI #energy #realestate

The EHang VT35 is an #autonomous electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft built for intercity transportation. 

This two-passenger air taxi uses a tandem-wing configuration with eight propellers dedicated to vertical lift and a single rear-mounted pusher propeller for forward propulsion. It can achieve cruising speeds of up to 216 km/h and travel distances of around 200 kilometers.

Designed for fully autonomous operation, the VT35 aims to link cities and regions by transforming long car journeys into quick aerial trips. 

Its compact design enables it to utilize existing vertiports originally built for the smaller EH216-S model, making it a flexible and efficient option for the expanding urban air mobility sector.

Also in #Dubai moving fast and some of the largest US institutional RE asset owners looking into this space.

Interested to learn more, please DM.

#aviation #proptech #tech

Air travel stands as one of the most underappreciated feats of modern infrastructure. 

With 45,000 daily flights in the US, it boasts less than 1% cancellations and near-zero accidents, quietly enabling global mobility at scale. What may appear chaotic is, in fact, highly optimized. 

Efficiency isn’t always visible.

Enjoyed this important panel discussion in #Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with industry leaders.

Waleed AlHarkan, CEO at NHC Innovation
Tareq Nabulsi, CEO Developments & Projects at Abdullah Al Othaim Investment Co.
Richard crook, Ceo at Deus X

And professionally moderated by the honorable Sarah Cocker.

I emphasized the growing role of tech in #realestate, the increasing complexity of sourcing tech + the challenge many of our clients are facing with increasing tech budgets and cyber budgets going through the roof due to lack of data-led intelligence to make informed (substantial capex) decisions.

Exciting times ahead for our #proptech industry!

taplio

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