Continuing its mission of accelerating demand-driven research and development (R&D) efforts, the Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology & Innovation (MRANTI), has brought its 2024 Global Accelerator Programme (GAP) to a triumphant close with an inspiring Sharing Day. Showcasing 20 exceptional companies, the event highlighted transformative solutions designed to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
With the theme Tech for Impact, GAP 2024 curated local and global companies to address three key thematic areas aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). Focus areas such as Food Security & Sustainability (UN SDG 2), Healthcare (UN SDG 3), and Renewable Energy (UN SDG 7) were identified through extensive research as the most pressing issues both nationally and globally.
While Malaysia has made progress in sustainability efforts, development in these three areas has previously remained steady. Through the accelerator programme, participating companies gain access to diverse support mechanisms, including funding from global and local investors and strategic backing from R&D and business management entities. MRANTI GAP amplifies these benefits with its regional focus, offering connections to industry-specific partners, access to experienced mentors via a dedicated platform, and exclusive entry into a global entrepreneurial ecosystem.
In conjunction with this year’s Sharing Day, a specially curated private dinner was held featuring Angel Investors, High Net Worth Individuals, and founders of high-impact businesses. This exclusive event was organised in collaboration with the Malaysian Business Angel Network (MBAN). The dinner aimed to foster connections between innovative startups and potential investors, enhancing opportunities for collaboration and funding within Malaysia’s burgeoning entrepreneurial landscape.
The event was graced by YBrs. Prof. Dr. Rofina Yasmin binti Othman alongside prominent investors, industry leaders, and ecosystem enablers.
A total of 20 companies participated in the 8th cohort, 6 of which are from the Food Security industry, 8 from the Healthcare scene, 4 companies hailing from the Renewable Energy field and 2 companies from Sustainable Production, making up a diverse group of participants.
“Malaysia’s potential to be a global innovation hub is undeniable, but it requires a well-coordinated ecosystem to translate ideas into impactful solutions,” said Safuan Zairi, Chief Ecosystem Officer, MRANTI. “As one of the most established and successful accelerator programmes, MRANTI GAP has seen strong traction from startups, and we are committed to continuing this momentum for many more years, helping innovations turn into real-world success stories. Let MRANTI be your bridge to advancing ideas that propel the nation forward.”
“We have many talented innovators in Malaysia, but they often lack access to the necessary investments to take their first step toward success,” said Peter Wee, President of the Malaysian Business Angel Network (MBAN). “Programmes like this instil confidence not only in startups to showcase their potential but also in investors to seek out and support these innovators. By building this mutual trust, we can encourage more investors to step forward, strengthening the ecosystem for innovation and growth.”
GAP was established to bring companies from ideation to globalisation, providing a robust platform that goes beyond mere incubation. With a holistic approach to entrepreneurship, MRANTI’s GAP is dedicated to nurturing the entire lifecycle of a company, offering not only financial support but also mentorship, networking opportunities, and strategic guidance.
A highlight of the 2024 GAP cycle was MRANTI’s collaboration with the Asia School of Business (ASB), which included a unique opportunity for participating companies to be nominated for The Earthshot Prize, a prestigious global sustainability award founded by His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales, in 2020. Dedicated to repairing and regenerating the planet, the prize celebrates five transformative solutions annually that address critical environmental challenges. This collaboration underscores the shared commitment of ASB and MRANTI to spotlighting and scaling groundbreaking innovations that drive meaningful environmental impact on a global scale.
Throughout the accelerator, participating companies underwent an intensive eight-week programme consisting of masterclasses, mentorship and industry engagements, culminating in the Demo Day. During the session, these companies will pitch their solutions to leading industry players, global investors, and the business community to receive further support and expedite the development of their innovative solutions.
To date, MRANTI’s GAP programme has successfully supported 58 market-ready companies, generating MYR 67.28 million in combined revenue and investment. This achievement highlights the programme’s effectiveness in cultivating entrepreneurial talent while driving significant economic growth within the startup ecosystem.
Source: MRANTI
