How to Grow a Joint Venture: Reiz Tech’s Perspective on LITIT’s Journey

Joint ventures (JVs) are a powerful way to leverage complementary strengths, enter new markets, and drive innovation. However, growing a JV from concept to a successful, independent entity requires precision, adaptability, and strategic alignment. The growth of LITIT, a joint venture between Reiz Tech and NTT DATA, offers critical insights into how to build and scale a joint venture.

Drawing from LITIT's experience, we outline the five critical steps to growing a joint venture - steps that not only help to overcome initial challenges but also position the business for long-term growth.

#1 Align on a Shared Vision and Strategic Objectives

The foundation of any successful joint venture begins with a clear and unified vision. Both partners must be in alignment not just on the business goals but also on the cultural, operational, and strategic frameworks that will guide the venture. For LITIT, the vision was clear: combine the global expertise of NTT DATA with the deep local knowledge of Reiz Tech to provide IT solutions to the DACH region.

This shared understanding of goals ensured that every operational decision, from recruitment to market expansion, was made with a clear, cohesive purpose. LITIT’s leadership understood that creating synergy between two different corporate cultures and leveraging each partner’s strengths would be crucial to long-term growth.

A shared vision ensures alignment at every level of the organization, driving coordinated efforts and increasing the likelihood of achieving business objectives.

#2 Focus on Building a High-Performance Team

One of the most important factors in growing a joint venture is assembling a talented, motivated team that can drive results. LITIT recognized early on that talent acquisition would be pivotal to their growth. By tapping into Lithuania’s highly skilled IT workforce, the JV ensured that it had the right people to deliver top-tier solutions to its clients in the DACH region.

Within the first year, LITIT hired 66 professionals, focusing on both local and international talent. This commitment to building a high-performance team enabled the company to scale quickly and meet growing client demands. As Valdas Šimas, Member of the Management Board, noted, “Success comes from ownership.” Empowering employees to take full ownership of their roles and responsibilities ensured that LITIT could meet and exceed expectations from day one.

Building a high-performance team is essential. The right talent, equipped with the proper resources and autonomy, can drive innovation and fuel growth.

#3 Adapt and Overcome Early Challenges

No venture is without its obstacles, and JVs are no exception. LITIT’s journey demonstrates the importance of being adaptable and resilient in the face of unexpected challenges. One early challenge came when a key client unexpectedly shifted their delivery needs to India, forcing LITIT to rethink its approach. Rather than being discouraged, the team took swift action, refocused on recruiting top-tier talent locally, and diversified service offerings to better align with market needs.

This ability to adapt quickly and pivot in response to challenges was key in helping LITIT navigate the complexities of the DACH market. The leadership team’s resilience and commitment to agility ensured that setbacks became opportunities for growth, rather than barriers to success.

Adaptability is critical. A successful JV can weather challenges by remaining agile, responsive, and focused on long-term objectives.

#4 Establish a Strong, Independent Identity

While it’s tempting to lean on the reputation of parent companies, a successful joint venture must establish its own unique brand and identity in the marketplace. LITIT understood the importance of building a separate and independent brand, distinct from Reiz Tech and NTT DATA. This allowed LITIT to foster its own relationships, build trust with clients, and carve out a niche in the DACH region.

In its first year, LITIT focused on delivering high-quality IT solutions and earned certifications such as TISAX and ISO. This independent recognition reinforced the company’s position as a reliable, results-driven partner. Valdas Šimas commented, “LITIT’s greatest achievement has been establishing itself as a strong, independent organization, not just an extension of Reiz Tech or NTT.”

Establishing a unique identity is essential for credibility. JVs must avoid being perceived as an extension of the parent company and instead create their own reputation in the marketplace.

#5 Scale What Works and Expand Strategically

Once a JV is on solid footing, the next step is scaling operations and expanding strategically into new markets and sectors. LITIT’s first year was marked by strong growth, with the company securing 13 successful projects in automotive, banking, and insurance. As the team grew and the company’s capabilities expanded, so did its client base and reach.

Looking forward, LITIT is focusing on scaling its operations by expanding into new industries such as healthcare, fintech, and energy. By scaling what works - leveraging their core competencies and expertise - LITIT is positioned to continue its growth trajectory. As Valdas Šimas put it, “Our priority now is scaling what works: strengthening business development, expanding services, and keeping a winning mindset - proactive, bold, and results-driven.”

Strategic scaling is key to long-term success. Focus on expanding services and entering new markets where the JV can leverage existing strengths.

Growing a joint venture requires a combination of strategic alignment, a talented team, resilience in the face of challenges, and the ability to scale effectively. LITIT’s growth provides a valuable roadmap for others looking to grow a JV. By focusing on a shared vision, building a high-performance team, adapting to challenges, establishing a strong identity, and scaling strategically, a JV can build a solid foundation for long-term growth and success.