{"id":34923,"date":"2025-09-29T22:24:16","date_gmt":"2025-09-29T15:24:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thaipropertynews.com\/feeds\/?p=34923"},"modified":"2025-09-29T22:24:16","modified_gmt":"2025-09-29T15:24:16","slug":"scaling-innovation-globally-smu-launches-a-new-global-deep-tech-accelerator-at-the-12th-lee-kuan-yew-global-business-plan-competition-as-it-welcomes-60-new-gen-startups-to-singapore","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thaipropertynews.com\/feeds\/?p=34923","title":{"rendered":"Scaling Innovation Globally: SMU Launches a New Global Deep Tech Accelerator at the 12th Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition as it Welcomes 60 New-Gen Startups to Singapore"},"content":{"rendered":"<ul type=\"disc\">\n<li><i>60 university-affiliated deep tech startup finalists from around the world converge in the heart of <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span>, where capital, government and academia collaborate to foster innovation. <\/i><\/li>\n<li><i>Minister <span class=\"xn-person\">Chee Hong Tat<\/span> launches <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU&#8217;s<\/span> new flagship deep tech accelerator, the Urban SustaInnovator (USI), as a key component of the 12th Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC) to anchor and grow promising urban solutions and sustainability startups.<\/i><\/li>\n<li><i>The USI is backed by a public-private consortium that connects startups to global networks, fast-tracks talent development, and strengthens <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore&#8217;s<\/span> role as <span class=\"xn-location\">Asia&#8217;s<\/span> gateway and a hub for next-generation deep tech startups.<\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span class=\"legendSpanClass\"><span class=\"xn-location\">SINGAPORE<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"legendSpanClass\"><span class=\"xn-chron\">Sept. 29, 2025<\/span><\/span> \/PRNewswire\/ &#8212; <span class=\"xn-org\">Singapore Management University&#8217;s<\/span> Institute of Innovation &amp; Entrepreneurship (SMU IIE) today announced the launch of the Urban SustaInnovator, one-of-its-kind accelerator programme dedicated to scaling and anchoring breakthrough solutions in the urban solutions and sustainability (USS) space.<\/p>\n<p>Conceived as the flagship initiative of the 12th Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC), Mr <span class=\"xn-person\">Chee Hong Tat<\/span>, Minister for National Development<span>,<\/span> witnessed its launch at the Opening Ceremony of the competition&#8217;s Grand Finals Week, from 29 September to <span class=\"xn-chron\">2 October 2025<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>Dedicated to convening and incubating innovative top-tier startups, the inception of the USI solidifies <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU&#8217;s<\/span> burgeoning role as a dynamic crucible for developing deep tech and an indispensable gateway to <span class=\"xn-location\">Asia&#8217;s<\/span> vibrant innovation and entrepreneurship landscape.<\/p>\n<p>The LKYGBPC, a biennial <span>university <\/span>startup competition organised by <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> for over two decades, will serve as a key talent pipeline for the USI. This year&#8217;s competition has attracted a record-breaking 1,572 applications from 91 countries\u2014a nearly two-thirds increase from the previous edition. The spotlight is on 60 global finalists competing for a prize pool of <span class=\"xn-money\">S$2.5 million<\/span> in cash, in-kind support, and mentorship from leading partners like Antler, Indorama Ventures, and returning partners such as Sino Group and The GEAR by Kajima.<\/p>\n<p><b>Eyes on the Urban SustaInnovator: Addressing Critical Urban Challenges<\/b><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Innovation is not just important; it is essential.&#8221; Sharing that he is pleased to launch the USI, Mr Chee said in his speech: &#8220;This accelerator programme brings together venture capitalists, R&amp;D experts, leading companies and public agencies to mentor promising urban solutions and sustainability startups. Participants will receive guidance on fundraising, market access, and R&amp;D as you build and launch your ventures.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>The launch of the USI comes at a crucial time for regional cities facing a confluence of challenges such as decarbonisation, energy transition, and sustainable construction and mobility, along with the mounting costs of climate inaction. With the Singapore Green Plan 2030 setting clear national priorities, the USI is well-timed and well-positioned to direct innovation towards these pressing needs.<\/p>\n<p>The USI programme is so named as it is the first global accelerator in <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span> dedicated to scaling and anchoring breakthrough solutions in the USS space. Hosted by SMU IIE, it is a 12-month hybrid, non-residential programme open to eligible startups globally,<\/p>\n<p>This zero-equity, zero-fee, non-residential programme is powered by a strong consortium of public and private institutions, including A*STAR, Antler, Building Construction Authority, Energy Market Authority, ST Engineering, The GEAR by Kajima, TRIREC, and Wavemaker Partners.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> has been in the business of supporting sustainability startups. Nearly 40% of startups from SMU IIE&#8217;s incubator, the Business Innovations Generator, have focused on addressing UN Sustainable Development Goals\u2014driving sustainability innovation. In the past five years, these startups have collectively raised over <span class=\"xn-money\">S$1.15 billion<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>Professor <span class=\"xn-person\">Lim Sun Sun<\/span>, <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU&#8217;s<\/span> Vice President of Partnerships and Engagement and chair of the USI Programme Management Council, stated, &#8220;The launch of the Urban SustaInnovator exemplifies <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU&#8217;s<\/span> commitment to translating research and innovation into real-world impact, and working together with our valued partners to solve the world&#8217;s most essential, urgent challenges. Bridging global startup talent to <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore&#8217;s<\/span> ecosystem can both catalyse revolutionary solutions for a more equitable, sustainable future, and greatly boost knowledge and skills transfer for our local workforce.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore&#8217;s<\/span> strategic commitment to innovation too, is evident in its ranking as <a href=\"https:\/\/startupgenome.com\/report\/gser2025\/introduction\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">global 4th in the 2025 Global Startup Ecosystem<\/a> Index by StartupBlink, a significant climb of 12 places since 2020. The nation also commands nearly 60% of <span class=\"xn-location\">Southeast Asia&#8217;s<\/span> venture capital deal flow.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The USI complements national initiatives like the National Graduate Research Innovation Programme (National GRIP) by establishing a circle of high-potential deep tech startups with solutions at the intersection of urban sustainability, technology, and business from universities worldwide.&#8221; she added.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><b>A New Accelerator to Anchor Global Deep Tech Talent : How the USI works<\/b><\/p>\n<p>In USI, each startup receives dedicated one-to-one mentorship, with a Lead Mentor assigned from a consortium of business, scientific, and government leaders, ensuring continuity and tailored guidance. SMU IIE works closely with the Lead Mentor to curate advisory panel sessions that address the unique needs of each startup.<\/p>\n<p>Startups also benefit from close peer learning through a community that connects founders, mentors, and partners, fostering knowledge sharing and collaboration. The programme provides practical support for growth, including fundraising guidance, industry introductions, hiring assistance, and pathways for lab validation and accreditation for fast-tracked commercialisation. \u00a0Participants can expand their networks across <span class=\"xn-location\">Asia<\/span> via <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU&#8217;s<\/span> Overseas Centres and events \u2014 mixers, social gatherings, and an annual signature meet \u2014 opening doors to greater collaboration and exposure.<\/p>\n<p><b>Inspiring Innovation and Entrepreneurship among Singapore Students<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Over the four days, the LKYGBPC will connect <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span> tertiary students to vital networks, positioning <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span> as a hub for global talent and innovation. Highlights include the LKYGBPC Talent Xchange, where students get to pitch to deep tech founders for internship opportunities. There is also the much-anticipated VC Office Hour, where all startups will receive one-to-one investor guidance from venture capitalists. For the competition programme, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/lkygbpc.smu.edu.sg\/grand-finals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">Grand Finals | Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The competition and its initiatives are closely aligned with <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore&#8217;s<\/span> Research, Innovation and Enterprise 2030 (RIE 2030) vision to position the nation as a trusted global hub where partners collaborate to solve real-world challenges. Mr Heng Swee Keat, Chairman of the National Research Foundation Singapore, will witness the Grand Finals pitching on <span class=\"xn-chron\">October 2, 2025<\/span>, as the top 8 teams battle to emerge winners of the Chancellor&#8217;s Cup for Beta Innovation and the Chancellor&#8217;s Cup for Infinity Impact.<\/p>\n<p><i>For more information on the competition prizes, visit <\/i><i><a href=\"https:\/\/lkygbpc.smu.edu.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">Homepage | Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition.<\/a><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span><b>About Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC) (<\/b>\u674e\u5149\u8000\u5168\u7403\u521b\u65b0\u521b\u4e1a\u5927\u8d5b<b>\u00a0):<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Organised by <span class=\"xn-org\">Singapore Management University&#8217;s<\/span> Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC) is a biennial university-led start-up challenge. One of the most exciting of such competitions in <span class=\"xn-location\">Asia<\/span>, it derives its name from <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore&#8217;s<\/span> founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, who developed the country&#8217;s defining business plan that propelled <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span> onto the global stage. It is this spirit of entrepreneurship, innovation and ambition that the competition enshrines. LKYGBPC invites the brightest minds from the world&#8217;s most entrepreneurial universities to come together to address the challenges of the 21st century and reimagine the future. For more information:<a href=\"https:\/\/lkygbpc.smu.edu.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\"> smu.sg\/lkygbp<u>c<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span><b>About SMU IIE (<\/b><b>\u65b0\u52a0\u5761\u7ba1\u7406\u5927\u5b66\u521b\u65b0\u4e0e\u521b\u4e1a\u7814\u7a76\u9662<\/b><b>)<\/b><b>:<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>The <span class=\"xn-org\">Singapore Management University&#8217;s<\/span> Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (IIE) empowers aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators to create positive change. It offers tailored training programmes, an equity-free incubator, and a vibrant community that connects innovators through events and networking opportunities, including the renowned Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC). For more information:<a href=\"https:\/\/iie.smu.edu.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\"> <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/iie.smu.edu.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/iie.smu.edu.sg<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><span><b>About <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> (<\/b><b>\u65b0\u52a0\u5761\u7ba1\u7406\u5927\u5b66<\/b><b>)<\/b><b>:<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Established in 2000, <span class=\"xn-org\">Singapore Management University<\/span> (<span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span>) is recognised for its disciplinary and multi-disciplinary research that addresses issues of global relevance, impacting business, government, and society. Its distinctive education, incorporating innovative experiential learning, aims to nurture global citizens, entrepreneurs and change agents. With more than 13,000 students, <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> offers a wide range of bachelors, masters and PhD degree programmes in the disciplinary areas associated with six of its eight schools &#8211; Accountancy, Business, Computing, Economics, Law and Social Sciences. Its seventh school, the SMU College of Integrative Studies, offers degree programmes in deep, integrative interdisciplinary education. The College of Graduate Research Studies, <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU&#8217;s<\/span> eighth school, enhances integration and interdisciplinarity across the various <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> postgraduate research programmes that will enable students to gain a holistic learning experience and well-grounded approach to their research.\u00a0 <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> also offers a growing number of executive development and continuing education programmes. Through its city campus, <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> focuses on making meaningful impact on <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span> and beyond through its partnerships with industry, policymakers and academic institutions.<a href=\"https:\/\/www.smu.edu.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\"> <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smu.edu.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/www.smu.edu.sg\/<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><b>APPENDIX<\/b>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><span><b>Translated Terms:<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<div>\n<table border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"1\" class=\"prnbcc\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"prnpr2 prnpl2 prnvab prncbts prnbrbrs prnbbbs prnbsbls\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan <br \/>Competition (LKYGBPC)\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"prnpr2 prnpl2 prnvab prncbts prnbrbrs prnbbbs prnsblb1\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u674e\u5149\u8000\u5168\u7403\u521b\u65b0\u521b\u4e1a\u5927\u8d5b\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"prngen4\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">SMU IIE\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"prngen5\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u65b0\u52a0\u5761\u7ba1\u7406\u5927\u5b66\u521b\u65b0\u4e0e\u521b\u4e1a\u7814\u7a76\u9662\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"prngen4\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">SMU\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"prngen5\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u65b0\u52a0\u5761\u7ba1\u7406\u5927\u5b66\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"prngen4\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">Prof Lim Sun Sun, Vice President of <br \/>Partnerships and Engagement in SMU, and Lee <br \/>Kong Chian Professor of Communication &amp; <br \/>Technology\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"prngen5\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u6797\u73ca\u73ca\u6559\u6388\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\"><u>\u65b0\u52a0\u5761\u7ba1\u7406\u5927\u5b66<\/u>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\"><u>\u5408\u4f5c\u4e0e\u4ea4\u6d41\u603b\u76d1<\/u>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\"><u>\u674e\u5149\u524d\u901a\u4fe1\u4e0e\u79d1\u6280\u6559\u6388<\/u>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"prngen4\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">Ms Shirley Wong, Entrepreneur-in-Residence at <br \/>SMU IIE, Managing Partner of TNF Ventures Pte <br \/>Ltd, and Chairperson of the 12<sup>th<\/sup> LKYGBPC <br \/>Advisory Committee\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"prngen5\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u00a0\u738b\u79c0\u840d\u5973\u58eb\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u65b0\u52a0\u5761\u7ba1\u7406\u5927\u5b66\u521b\u65b0\u4e0e\u521b\u4e1a\u7814\u7a76\u9662\u4f01\u4e1a\u5e38\u9a7b\u521b\u4e1a\u4e13\u5bb6\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">TNF Ventures Pte Ltd \u7ba1\u7406\u5408\u4f19\u4eba\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u7b2c\u5341\u4e8c\u5c4a\u674e\u5149\u8000\u5168\u7403\u521b\u65b0\u521b\u4e1a\u5927\u8d5b\u987e\u95ee\u59d4\u5458\u4f1a\u4e3b\u5e2d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><b>Annex<\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>Urban SustaInnovator: Programme Framework<\/b>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The Urban SustaInnovator\u00a0programme offers a 12-month hybrid, non-residential format and includes the following curriculum:\u00a0<\/p>\n<ul type=\"disc\">\n<li>N:1 advisory panel of mentors, comprising business, scientific and government leaders providing coaching to startups<\/li>\n<li>Dedicated 1:1 mentorship for each startup, with assignment of a Lead Mentor from the consortium for each start-up, ensuring continuity and tailored support<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> will work with the Lead Mentor to curate the composition of the N:1 advisory panel sessions<\/li>\n<li>N:N peer learning sessions, through an online community platform that incorporates founders, mentors and partners<\/li>\n<li>Fundraising support, industry introductions, hiring assistance, lab validation and accreditation pathways<\/li>\n<li>Networking mixers and socials, and an annual signature event\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Quotes from Founding Partners of Urban SustaInnovator<\/b><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Driven by a shared commitment in addressing critical challenges that cities face today, ST Engineering is participating in the Urban SustaInnovator programme to drive urban and sustainability innovation. We bring scale, deep domain expertise and access to real-world environments to help our startup partners validate, refine and grow their solutions. The opportunity to co-create alongside these bold innovators will inspire, unlock new possibilities and strengthen the ecosystem. Together, we can create meaningful impact for cities and communities.&#8221;<br \/><span class=\"xn-person\">Gareth Tang<\/span>, President, <span class=\"xn-person\">Urban Solutions<\/span> at ST Engineering<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;At TRIREC, our mission is to back technologies and entrepreneurs that are striving to improve our world. The Urban SustaInnovator is an important platform to help accelerate ideas that can help cut emissions and transition towards a low-carbon future. We are excited to work with founders who are tackling urban sustainability challenges head-on, and to support them in scaling innovations that can deliver measurable impact. &#8220;<br \/><span class=\"xn-person\">Melvyn Yeo<\/span>, Managing Partner at TRIREC.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Wavemaker Partners is proud to support Urban SustaInnovator, reflecting our long-standing commitment since our founding in 2012 to deep tech, alongside enterprise and sustainability, recognising its massive potential despite being undervalued in <span class=\"xn-location\">Southeast Asia<\/span>. We aim to provide USI founders with the tailored support that deep tech ventures often struggle to find, while contributing to <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore&#8217;s<\/span> position as a global hub for innovation and technological advancement that solve urgent real-world challenges.&#8221;<br \/><span class=\"xn-person\">Paul Santos<\/span>, Co-founder and Managing Partner of Wavemaker Partners<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;As an operating partner of the Urban SustaInnovator, The GEAR by Kajima is proud to contribute our deep industry expertise to guide and accelerate the growth of promising startups. Our unique position of having a living lab and testbed facility, and engagement from Kajima&#8217;s Technical Research Institute, enables us to offer startups real-world environments to validate their solutions, collaborate with research teams, and establish a strong foothold in <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span>.&#8221;<br \/><span class=\"xn-person\">Luke Wu<\/span>, Managing Director, The GEAR by Kajima<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><!-- wp:html --><\/p>\n<ul type=\"disc\">\n<li><i>60 university-affiliated deep tech startup finalists from around the world converge in the heart of <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span>, where capital, government and academia collaborate to foster innovation. <\/i><\/li>\n<li><i>Minister <span class=\"xn-person\">Chee Hong Tat<\/span> launches <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU&#8217;s<\/span> new flagship deep tech accelerator, the Urban SustaInnovator (USI), as a key component of the 12th Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC) to anchor and grow promising urban solutions and sustainability startups.<\/i><\/li>\n<li><i>The USI is backed by a public-private consortium that connects startups to global networks, fast-tracks talent development, and strengthens <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore&#8217;s<\/span> role as <span class=\"xn-location\">Asia&#8217;s<\/span> gateway and a hub for next-generation deep tech startups.<\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span class=\"legendSpanClass\"><span class=\"xn-location\">SINGAPORE<\/span><\/span>, <span class=\"legendSpanClass\"><span class=\"xn-chron\">Sept. 29, 2025<\/span><\/span> \/PRNewswire\/ &#8212; <span class=\"xn-org\">Singapore Management University&#8217;s<\/span> Institute of Innovation &amp; Entrepreneurship (SMU IIE) today announced the launch of the Urban SustaInnovator, one-of-its-kind accelerator programme dedicated to scaling and anchoring breakthrough solutions in the urban solutions and sustainability (USS) space.<\/p>\n<p>Conceived as the flagship initiative of the 12th Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC), Mr <span class=\"xn-person\">Chee Hong Tat<\/span>, Minister for National Development<span>,<\/span> witnessed its launch at the Opening Ceremony of the competition&#8217;s Grand Finals Week, from 29 September to <span class=\"xn-chron\">2 October 2025<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>Dedicated to convening and incubating innovative top-tier startups, the inception of the USI solidifies <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU&#8217;s<\/span> burgeoning role as a dynamic crucible for developing deep tech and an indispensable gateway to <span class=\"xn-location\">Asia&#8217;s<\/span> vibrant innovation and entrepreneurship landscape.<\/p>\n<p>The LKYGBPC, a biennial <span>university <\/span>startup competition organised by <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> for over two decades, will serve as a key talent pipeline for the USI. This year&#8217;s competition has attracted a record-breaking 1,572 applications from 91 countries\u2014a nearly two-thirds increase from the previous edition. The spotlight is on 60 global finalists competing for a prize pool of <span class=\"xn-money\">S$2.5 million<\/span> in cash, in-kind support, and mentorship from leading partners like Antler, Indorama Ventures, and returning partners such as Sino Group and The GEAR by Kajima.<\/p>\n<p><b>Eyes on the Urban SustaInnovator: Addressing Critical Urban Challenges<\/b><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Innovation is not just important; it is essential.&#8221; Sharing that he is pleased to launch the USI, Mr Chee said in his speech: &#8220;This accelerator programme brings together venture capitalists, R&amp;D experts, leading companies and public agencies to mentor promising urban solutions and sustainability startups. Participants will receive guidance on fundraising, market access, and R&amp;D as you build and launch your ventures.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>The launch of the USI comes at a crucial time for regional cities facing a confluence of challenges such as decarbonisation, energy transition, and sustainable construction and mobility, along with the mounting costs of climate inaction. With the Singapore Green Plan 2030 setting clear national priorities, the USI is well-timed and well-positioned to direct innovation towards these pressing needs.<\/p>\n<p>The USI programme is so named as it is the first global accelerator in <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span> dedicated to scaling and anchoring breakthrough solutions in the USS space. Hosted by SMU IIE, it is a 12-month hybrid, non-residential programme open to eligible startups globally,<\/p>\n<p>This zero-equity, zero-fee, non-residential programme is powered by a strong consortium of public and private institutions, including A*STAR, Antler, Building Construction Authority, Energy Market Authority, ST Engineering, The GEAR by Kajima, TRIREC, and Wavemaker Partners.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> has been in the business of supporting sustainability startups. Nearly 40% of startups from SMU IIE&#8217;s incubator, the Business Innovations Generator, have focused on addressing UN Sustainable Development Goals\u2014driving sustainability innovation. In the past five years, these startups have collectively raised over <span class=\"xn-money\">S$1.15 billion<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>Professor <span class=\"xn-person\">Lim Sun Sun<\/span>, <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU&#8217;s<\/span> Vice President of Partnerships and Engagement and chair of the USI Programme Management Council, stated, &#8220;The launch of the Urban SustaInnovator exemplifies <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU&#8217;s<\/span> commitment to translating research and innovation into real-world impact, and working together with our valued partners to solve the world&#8217;s most essential, urgent challenges. Bridging global startup talent to <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore&#8217;s<\/span> ecosystem can both catalyse revolutionary solutions for a more equitable, sustainable future, and greatly boost knowledge and skills transfer for our local workforce.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore&#8217;s<\/span> strategic commitment to innovation too, is evident in its ranking as <a href=\"https:\/\/startupgenome.com\/report\/gser2025\/introduction\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">global 4th in the 2025 Global Startup Ecosystem<\/a> Index by StartupBlink, a significant climb of 12 places since 2020. The nation also commands nearly 60% of <span class=\"xn-location\">Southeast Asia&#8217;s<\/span> venture capital deal flow.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The USI complements national initiatives like the National Graduate Research Innovation Programme (National GRIP) by establishing a circle of high-potential deep tech startups with solutions at the intersection of urban sustainability, technology, and business from universities worldwide.&#8221; she added.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><b>A New Accelerator to Anchor Global Deep Tech Talent : How the USI works<\/b><\/p>\n<p>In USI, each startup receives dedicated one-to-one mentorship, with a Lead Mentor assigned from a consortium of business, scientific, and government leaders, ensuring continuity and tailored guidance. SMU IIE works closely with the Lead Mentor to curate advisory panel sessions that address the unique needs of each startup.<\/p>\n<p>Startups also benefit from close peer learning through a community that connects founders, mentors, and partners, fostering knowledge sharing and collaboration. The programme provides practical support for growth, including fundraising guidance, industry introductions, hiring assistance, and pathways for lab validation and accreditation for fast-tracked commercialisation. \u00a0Participants can expand their networks across <span class=\"xn-location\">Asia<\/span> via <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU&#8217;s<\/span> Overseas Centres and events \u2014 mixers, social gatherings, and an annual signature meet \u2014 opening doors to greater collaboration and exposure.<\/p>\n<p><b>Inspiring Innovation and Entrepreneurship among Singapore Students<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Over the four days, the LKYGBPC will connect <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span> tertiary students to vital networks, positioning <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span> as a hub for global talent and innovation. Highlights include the LKYGBPC Talent Xchange, where students get to pitch to deep tech founders for internship opportunities. There is also the much-anticipated VC Office Hour, where all startups will receive one-to-one investor guidance from venture capitalists. For the competition programme, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/lkygbpc.smu.edu.sg\/grand-finals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">Grand Finals | Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The competition and its initiatives are closely aligned with <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore&#8217;s<\/span> Research, Innovation and Enterprise 2030 (RIE 2030) vision to position the nation as a trusted global hub where partners collaborate to solve real-world challenges. Mr Heng Swee Keat, Chairman of the National Research Foundation Singapore, will witness the Grand Finals pitching on <span class=\"xn-chron\">October 2, 2025<\/span>, as the top 8 teams battle to emerge winners of the Chancellor&#8217;s Cup for Beta Innovation and the Chancellor&#8217;s Cup for Infinity Impact.<\/p>\n<p><i>For more information on the competition prizes, visit <\/i><i><a href=\"https:\/\/lkygbpc.smu.edu.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">Homepage | Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition.<\/a><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span><b>About Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC) (<\/b>\u674e\u5149\u8000\u5168\u7403\u521b\u65b0\u521b\u4e1a\u5927\u8d5b<b>\u00a0):<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Organised by <span class=\"xn-org\">Singapore Management University&#8217;s<\/span> Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC) is a biennial university-led start-up challenge. One of the most exciting of such competitions in <span class=\"xn-location\">Asia<\/span>, it derives its name from <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore&#8217;s<\/span> founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, who developed the country&#8217;s defining business plan that propelled <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span> onto the global stage. It is this spirit of entrepreneurship, innovation and ambition that the competition enshrines. LKYGBPC invites the brightest minds from the world&#8217;s most entrepreneurial universities to come together to address the challenges of the 21st century and reimagine the future. For more information:<a href=\"https:\/\/lkygbpc.smu.edu.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\"> smu.sg\/lkygbp<u>c<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span><b>About SMU IIE (<\/b><b>\u65b0\u52a0\u5761\u7ba1\u7406\u5927\u5b66\u521b\u65b0\u4e0e\u521b\u4e1a\u7814\u7a76\u9662<\/b><b>)<\/b><b>:<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>The <span class=\"xn-org\">Singapore Management University&#8217;s<\/span> Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (IIE) empowers aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators to create positive change. It offers tailored training programmes, an equity-free incubator, and a vibrant community that connects innovators through events and networking opportunities, including the renowned Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC). For more information:<a href=\"https:\/\/iie.smu.edu.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\"> <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/iie.smu.edu.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/iie.smu.edu.sg<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><span><b>About <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> (<\/b><b>\u65b0\u52a0\u5761\u7ba1\u7406\u5927\u5b66<\/b><b>)<\/b><b>:<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Established in 2000, <span class=\"xn-org\">Singapore Management University<\/span> (<span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span>) is recognised for its disciplinary and multi-disciplinary research that addresses issues of global relevance, impacting business, government, and society. Its distinctive education, incorporating innovative experiential learning, aims to nurture global citizens, entrepreneurs and change agents. With more than 13,000 students, <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> offers a wide range of bachelors, masters and PhD degree programmes in the disciplinary areas associated with six of its eight schools &#8211; Accountancy, Business, Computing, Economics, Law and Social Sciences. Its seventh school, the SMU College of Integrative Studies, offers degree programmes in deep, integrative interdisciplinary education. The College of Graduate Research Studies, <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU&#8217;s<\/span> eighth school, enhances integration and interdisciplinarity across the various <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> postgraduate research programmes that will enable students to gain a holistic learning experience and well-grounded approach to their research.\u00a0 <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> also offers a growing number of executive development and continuing education programmes. Through its city campus, <span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> focuses on making meaningful impact on <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span> and beyond through its partnerships with industry, policymakers and academic institutions.<a href=\"https:\/\/www.smu.edu.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\"> <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smu.edu.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/www.smu.edu.sg\/<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><b>APPENDIX<\/b>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><span><b>Translated Terms:<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<div>\n<table border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"1\" class=\"prnbcc\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"prnpr2 prnpl2 prnvab prncbts prnbrbrs prnbbbs prnbsbls\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan <br \/>Competition (LKYGBPC)\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"prnpr2 prnpl2 prnvab prncbts prnbrbrs prnbbbs prnsblb1\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u674e\u5149\u8000\u5168\u7403\u521b\u65b0\u521b\u4e1a\u5927\u8d5b\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"prngen4\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">SMU IIE\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"prngen5\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u65b0\u52a0\u5761\u7ba1\u7406\u5927\u5b66\u521b\u65b0\u4e0e\u521b\u4e1a\u7814\u7a76\u9662\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"prngen4\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">SMU\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"prngen5\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u65b0\u52a0\u5761\u7ba1\u7406\u5927\u5b66\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"prngen4\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">Prof Lim Sun Sun, Vice President of <br \/>Partnerships and Engagement in SMU, and Lee <br \/>Kong Chian Professor of Communication &amp; <br \/>Technology\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"prngen5\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u6797\u73ca\u73ca\u6559\u6388\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\"><u>\u65b0\u52a0\u5761\u7ba1\u7406\u5927\u5b66<\/u>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\"><u>\u5408\u4f5c\u4e0e\u4ea4\u6d41\u603b\u76d1<\/u>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\"><u>\u674e\u5149\u524d\u901a\u4fe1\u4e0e\u79d1\u6280\u6559\u6388<\/u>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"prngen4\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">Ms Shirley Wong, Entrepreneur-in-Residence at <br \/>SMU IIE, Managing Partner of TNF Ventures Pte <br \/>Ltd, and Chairperson of the 12<sup>th<\/sup> LKYGBPC <br \/>Advisory Committee\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"prngen5\" colspan=\"1\" rowspan=\"1\" nowrap>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u00a0\u738b\u79c0\u840d\u5973\u58eb\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u65b0\u52a0\u5761\u7ba1\u7406\u5927\u5b66\u521b\u65b0\u4e0e\u521b\u4e1a\u7814\u7a76\u9662\u4f01\u4e1a\u5e38\u9a7b\u521b\u4e1a\u4e13\u5bb6\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">TNF Ventures Pte Ltd \u7ba1\u7406\u5408\u4f19\u4eba\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"prnml4\"><span class=\"prnews_span\">\u7b2c\u5341\u4e8c\u5c4a\u674e\u5149\u8000\u5168\u7403\u521b\u65b0\u521b\u4e1a\u5927\u8d5b\u987e\u95ee\u59d4\u5458\u4f1a\u4e3b\u5e2d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><b>Annex<\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>Urban SustaInnovator: Programme Framework<\/b>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The Urban SustaInnovator\u00a0programme offers a 12-month hybrid, non-residential format and includes the following curriculum:\u00a0<\/p>\n<ul type=\"disc\">\n<li>N:1 advisory panel of mentors, comprising business, scientific and government leaders providing coaching to startups<\/li>\n<li>Dedicated 1:1 mentorship for each startup, with assignment of a Lead Mentor from the consortium for each start-up, ensuring continuity and tailored support<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"xn-org\">SMU<\/span> will work with the Lead Mentor to curate the composition of the N:1 advisory panel sessions<\/li>\n<li>N:N peer learning sessions, through an online community platform that incorporates founders, mentors and partners<\/li>\n<li>Fundraising support, industry introductions, hiring assistance, lab validation and accreditation pathways<\/li>\n<li>Networking mixers and socials, and an annual signature event\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Quotes from Founding Partners of Urban SustaInnovator<\/b><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Driven by a shared commitment in addressing critical challenges that cities face today, ST Engineering is participating in the Urban SustaInnovator programme to drive urban and sustainability innovation. We bring scale, deep domain expertise and access to real-world environments to help our startup partners validate, refine and grow their solutions. The opportunity to co-create alongside these bold innovators will inspire, unlock new possibilities and strengthen the ecosystem. Together, we can create meaningful impact for cities and communities.&#8221;<br \/><span class=\"xn-person\">Gareth Tang<\/span>, President, <span class=\"xn-person\">Urban Solutions<\/span> at ST Engineering<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;At TRIREC, our mission is to back technologies and entrepreneurs that are striving to improve our world. The Urban SustaInnovator is an important platform to help accelerate ideas that can help cut emissions and transition towards a low-carbon future. We are excited to work with founders who are tackling urban sustainability challenges head-on, and to support them in scaling innovations that can deliver measurable impact. &#8220;<br \/><span class=\"xn-person\">Melvyn Yeo<\/span>, Managing Partner at TRIREC.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Wavemaker Partners is proud to support Urban SustaInnovator, reflecting our long-standing commitment since our founding in 2012 to deep tech, alongside enterprise and sustainability, recognising its massive potential despite being undervalued in <span class=\"xn-location\">Southeast Asia<\/span>. We aim to provide USI founders with the tailored support that deep tech ventures often struggle to find, while contributing to <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore&#8217;s<\/span> position as a global hub for innovation and technological advancement that solve urgent real-world challenges.&#8221;<br \/><span class=\"xn-person\">Paul Santos<\/span>, Co-founder and Managing Partner of Wavemaker Partners<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;As an operating partner of the Urban SustaInnovator, The GEAR by Kajima is proud to contribute our deep industry expertise to guide and accelerate the growth of promising startups. Our unique position of having a living lab and testbed facility, and engagement from Kajima&#8217;s Technical Research Institute, enables us to offer startups real-world environments to validate their solutions, collaborate with research teams, and establish a strong foothold in <span class=\"xn-location\">Singapore<\/span>.&#8221;<br \/><span class=\"xn-person\">Luke Wu<\/span>, Managing Director, The GEAR by Kajima<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:html --><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rop_custom_images_group":[],"rop_custom_messages_group":[],"rop_publish_now":"initial","rop_publish_now_accounts":[],"rop_publish_now_history":[],"rop_publish_now_status":"pending","footnotes":""},"categories":[5,7],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-34923","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-cision-pr-newswire","category-cision-pr-newswire-en"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/thaipropertynews.com\/feeds\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34923","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/thaipropertynews.com\/feeds\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/thaipropertynews.com\/feeds\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thaipropertynews.com\/feeds\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thaipropertynews.com\/feeds\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=34923"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/thaipropertynews.com\/feeds\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34923\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/thaipropertynews.com\/feeds\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=34923"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thaipropertynews.com\/feeds\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=34923"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thaipropertynews.com\/feeds\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=34923"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}