2018 Innov8 Connect global call for startups with IoT focus

By Digital News Asia June 6, 2018

Programme is open for submissions from now until Aug 5, 2018
Six startups will be chosen to provide a solution for each of the six business areas

2018 Innov8 Connect global call for startups with IoT focus

SINGTEL Innov8, the corporate venture arm of the Singtel Group, on June 5 launched the 2018 Innov8 Connect programme to seek local and global startups with innovative solutions that could help accelerate the adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies.

This year’s Innov8 Connect programme will focus on smart IoT solutions in areas of public infrastructure, transportation, utilities, security, connected homes and personal wellness. Singtel has been trialling applications in environmental sensing, asset tracking and waste management to develop solutions for IoT, a critical lever that enterprises can use to digitally transform their businesses.

“IoT is radically transforming the way enterprises operate, and consumers live and play,” said Singtel Innov8 chief executive officer Edgar Hardless.

“Through a structured programme like Innov8 Connect, we can specify Singtel’s ‘wish-list’ of IoT solutions and help connect with local and global startups. This mutually beneficial programme spurs greater innovation by giving start-ups a platform to test and validate their products, enabling them to bring their solutions to the market faster. As Singapore accelerates its drive towards becoming a Smart Nation, it is imperative that businesses embrace IoT to stay relevant in today’s digital economy.”

Since its launch in 2016, Innov8 Connect has helped startups validate their solutions with the Singtel Group. Among the programme’s notable alumni are Moogsoft, a leading provider of artificial intelligence solutions for IT operations; and Xjera Labs, an AI-based image and video analytics company.

“The Innov8 Connect programme is a great platform for exposing technology start-ups like ours,” said Jeremy Heng, co-founder of Xjera Labs. “It gave us the ability to compete with the big guys and the opportunity to showcase our products and solutions.”

The Innov8 Connect programme is open for submissions from now until Aug 5, 2018. Interested startups are invited to submit their proposals for the six new IoT business areas identified by Singtel. Project briefs and other details are now available on the Innov8 Connect portal (www.innov8connect.com).

Shortlisted startups will be invited to pitch their business case to a panel of Singtel Group management executives. Those selected will receive up to S$75,000 (RM223,080) to test and develop their solutions with the group. Six startups will be chosen to provide a solution for each of the six business areas. Singtel will also help them explore commercialisation opportunities across the group.