Linklaters has advised Skanska on the co-creation of an innovative business ecosystem Business Link in partnership with Akademickie Inkubatory Przedsiebiorczosci, the largest network of co-working space and private offices in Poland. The firm's Warsaw office worked with Skanska on their investment in the joint venture, which will enable the developer to create the most comprehensive commercial office proposition available to a wide range of businesses in the CEE market.

Linklaters Warsaw advised on all aspects of the joint venture transaction. Skanska will jointly control the venture while remaining as the minority investor as part of a sustainable business partnership. The developer, as an equal partner, will not take over the start-up company but will be investing in its development.

The new platform with Business Link will create an innovative space for both the developing network of start-up, small and medium-sized businesses and the business services sector to find flexible commercial property together with a package of additional services such as acceleration and mentoring programmes. The venture will also contribute to the development of entrepreneurship in Poland and the CEE region.

Klaudia Krolak (managing associate, corporate) and Michal Miecinski (of counsel, real estate) advised on the transaction on behalf of Linklaters.