The Top 20 Startup Competitions in Singapore You Should Enter in 2024
The Top 20 Startup Competitions in Singapore You Should Enter in 2024
Singapore, with its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem, is a thriving hub for startups. If you're looking to launch or grow your startup in this vibrant city-state, participating in startup competitions can provide invaluable exposure, mentorship, and funding opportunities. Here's a list of the top 20 startup competitions in Singapore that you should consider entering in 2024.
1. SLINGSHOT by Startup SG
What it is: SLINGSHOT is one of Asia’s largest startup competitions, attracting innovative startups from around the globe to pitch their ideas in Singapore.
Why enter: Offers extensive visibility, access to investors, and substantial cash prizes.
2. Tech in Asia Startup Arena
What it is: A pitch competition held during the annual Tech in Asia conference, showcasing the best startups in the region.
Why enter: Provides exposure to a large audience of tech enthusiasts, potential partners, and investors.
Website: Tech in Asia Startup Arena
3. Asia Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Awards
What it is: An international awards program that recognizes excellence in the field of Information and Communication Technology.
Why enter: Offers international recognition and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
Website: APICTA Awards
4. Echelon TOP100
What it is: Echelon’s TOP100 competition selects the most promising startups in Asia to pitch at the Echelon Asia Summit.
Why enter: Provides access to a vast network of investors, mentors, and corporate partners.
5. SuperStartups Asia
What it is: A competition that celebrates and supports early-stage startups with high growth potential in Asia.
Why enter: Offers mentoring, media coverage, and networking opportunities with top industry experts.
6. DBS HotSpot Pre-Accelerator
What it is: A pre-accelerator program designed to help early-stage startups refine their business models and prepare for further acceleration.
Why enter: Provides mentorship from DBS executives, co-working space, and the opportunity to pitch to investors.
7. K-Startup Grand Challenge
What it is: An initiative by the Korean government to support startups entering the Asian market, including a significant presence in Singapore.
Why enter: Offers grants, office space, and extensive networking opportunities in Asia.
8. Startupbootcamp FinTech Singapore
What it is: A leading accelerator program for fintech startups, providing mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities.
Why enter: Access to a global network of investors, industry experts, and potential clients.
9. Impact Tech Ventures Impact Tech Challenge
What it is: A competition focusing on startups that address significant social and environmental issues.
Why enter: Provides funding, mentorship, and exposure to impact investors.
10. Leap Venture Summit
What it is: An annual event that includes a pitch competition for startups in various sectors, aiming to connect them with investors and partners.
Why enter: Offers visibility, feedback from experts, and potential investment opportunities.
11. Ideasinc
What it is: An initiative by Nanyang Technological University to nurture young entrepreneurs and innovative business ideas.
Why enter: Offers mentorship, funding opportunities, and a supportive community.
12. TOP100 by Echelon Asia Summit
What it is: A competition that brings together the top 100 startups in Asia to pitch to investors and corporate partners.
Why enter: Provides significant exposure and opportunities to secure funding and partnerships.
13. Shell LiveWIRE
What it is: A global program by Shell that supports young entrepreneurs with funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Why enter: Offers significant funding and support from a global brand.
Website: Shell LiveWIRE
14. RiseUp Summit
What it is: A leading innovation and entrepreneurship summit in Asia, featuring a pitch competition for startups.
Why enter: Provides exposure to a wide audience of potential investors and partners.
15. OCBC Fintech Accelerator
What it is: An accelerator program by OCBC Bank that supports fintech startups with mentorship, funding, and resources.
Why enter: Provides access to banking expertise, potential clients, and investment opportunities.
Website: OCBC Fintech Accelerator
16. Hack Asia
What it is: A competition organized by the Jardine Matheson Group, focusing on innovative solutions to industry challenges.
Why enter: Offers significant prizes, mentorship, and the opportunity to work with a leading conglomerate.
Website: Hack Asia
17. Golden Ticket Competition
What it is: A competition by Entrepreneur First, offering funding and support for early-stage startups.
Why enter: Provides access to funding, mentorship, and a global network of entrepreneurs.
Website: Entrepreneur First
18. Singapore International Foundation Young Social Entrepreneurs (YSE) Program
What it is: A program that supports young social entrepreneurs with mentorship, funding, and international networking opportunities.
Why enter: Focuses on social impact startups, offering significant support and exposure.
Website: YSE Program
19. InnovFest Unbound
What it is: An innovation festival featuring a startup pitch competition, connecting startups with investors, corporate partners, and media.
Why enter: Offers significant exposure and networking opportunities in the tech and innovation sectors.
Website: InnovFest Unbound
20. Startup SG Founder
What it is: An initiative by Enterprise Singapore to support first-time entrepreneurs with mentorship and funding.
Why enter: Provides comprehensive support for early-stage startups, including funding and mentorship.
Conclusion
Entering startup competitions in Singapore can be a transformative experience for your business. These competitions offer more than just funding; they provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and significant exposure to potential investors and partners. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your business, there's a competition tailored to your needs. Prepare your pitch, refine your business model, and get ready to take advantage of these exciting opportunities in 2024.
