500 Startups kicks off Batch 4 of Global Launch Singapore

• Program to help develop customised business expansion, growth strategy to Singapore
• 16-week program structured in two phases, held virtually  

VENTURE capital firm 500 Startups has begun applications for fourth batch of its Global Launch Singapore programme. Through this, early and growth-stage startups worldwide will get the opportunity to learn about how to enter the Singaporean market, with a view to expanding their business across Southeast Asia.

Applications are now open until 30 July 2021.

In a statement, 500 Startups noted that Batch 4 of the programme will aim to help early and growth-stage companies from around the world develop customised, market-specific business expansion and growth strategies.

Additionally, it said it will provide them access to 500 Startups’ pool of mentors who possess extensive business experience across Southeast Asia.

The venture capital firm said it will also provide the participating startups networking opportunities with its larger startup community, corporate partners and key industry stakeholders to help guide the selected applicants’ expansion plans in Singapore and across the region.

“Southeast Asia is now one of the world’s most vibrant startup hubs. Through this program, we aim to give some of the world’s most promising startups and their founders the tools, know-how and networks needed for them to enter the market through Singapore and how they can use the nation as a launchpad to scale their innovations regionally,” said Ee Ling Lim, regional director of Asia Pacific, business development at 500 Startups.

Batch 4 of 500 Startups’ Global Launch Singapore program will run for 16 weeks and is structured in two phases.

The first phase, scheduled to take place from Aug 2 to Sept 24, consists of an eight-week virtual program focused on the fundamentals of business expansion in Southeast Asia.

It includes discussions on local product-market-fit, best practices in conducting sales, team-building exercises and lessons on developing strategic partnerships.

This phase will also comprise virtual networking sessions and masterclasses with mentors and industry experts, the firm said.

The second phase is scheduled to be held from Feb 7 to April 1, 2022, comprising an eight-week in-person immersion program that focuses on market expansion through introductions to relevant partners and access to resources, it added.

Participants will be prepped for a startup showcase at the end of the immersion program, 500 Startups said.

First held in 2019, the Global Launch Singapore programme is part of a two-way partnership between 500 Startups and Enterprise Singapore.

Previous participants include the likes of BizConnect, Botbox, Cindicator, Designhubz, gini, Stride.AI, Synapsica, Vasitum, Zectr, Autenti, Bestmap, Brix, Filmdoo, HK Decoman, Lazywait, Mall IQ, Pocket Result, Retykle, QWork and Vase AI.

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