Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd (Cradle), in partnership with WatchTower and Friends (WTF), proudly presents 30 high-potential startups selected to be part of the MYStartup Pre-Accelerator Cohort 5. The programme is executed as part of the MYStartup ecosystem development initiative, which is designed to guide and assist pre-seed and early-stage startups towards achieving product-market fit and contributing to the growth of Malaysia’s startup ecosystem.
The fifth instalment of the programme will run from October 2024 through February 2025. It will feature an enhanced curriculum tailored to the rapidly evolving business landscape, introducing innovative elements that address emerging market trends and meet consumer needs.
Chosen from a competitive pool of over 100 applicants nationwide, these selected startups, spanning diverse industries such as travel, fintech, biotech, proptech, and more, will embark on a four-month programme covering essential topics, including co- founder alignment, crafting mission and vision statements, developing business models, designing and iterating Minimum Viable Products (MVPs), conducting market validation, and exploring valuations and funding. Additionally, cohort 5 will once again highlight the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) module, focusing on sustainable business practices, which are increasingly relevant to today’s investors and markets.
Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke, Group CEO of Cradle, reaffirmed the organisation’s mission to build a robust startup ecosystem in the country said “We believe that the future of Malaysia’s economy is shaped by bold ideas and fearless entrepreneurs.
Startups shortlisted for Cohort 5 represent the next generation of changemakers, with 37% being women founders, demonstrating an increase in women-led startups ready to disrupt their respective industries. Through this initiative, we aim to provide the guidance, resources, and networks they need to thrive, putting their solutions at the forefront to address real-world challenges, create more job opportunities, and position Malaysia as a hub for global innovation.”
The MYStartup Pre-Accelerator Cohort 5 offers a comprehensive support package to each shortlisted startup, with weekly learning modules, one-on-one mentorship, on-demand resources, and strategic connections within the startup ecosystem. This structured programme aims to equip startup founders with the knowledge and tools needed to build and scale successful businesses.
A pivotal component of the Malaysia Startup Ecosystem Roadmap (SUPER) 2021- 2030, an initiative by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI), the programme provides a launchpad for early-stage startups to enable these startups through strategic partnerships with industry players such as WTF, enabling them to transition from innovative ideas to market-ready solutions that can contribute to Malaysia’s innovation-driven economy.
Sam Shafie, Co-Founder and CEO of WatchTower and Friends (WTF), reflected on the success of Cohort 4 and shared an optimistic vision for Cohort 5 said “With Cohort 5, we’re building on that success by introducing an expanded curriculum and more first-hand experiences for our selected startups. Our commitment remains steadfast, to empower Malaysia’s entrepreneurs with the tools, connections, and guidance they need to grow and thrive. Together with MYStartup, we’re dedicated to continuously elevating the programme, ensuring that each new cohort is positioned for even greater impact and success in Malaysia’s startup ecosystem.”
Since its inception, the MYStartup Pre-Accelerator has supported startups across various sectors, including fintech, agritech, edtech, healthtech, and green technology. Past cohorts have seen notable achievements, with alumni securing significant investments, partnerships, and funding to scale their solutions.
The programme will culminate in an exciting Demo Day event, where the top startups from Cohort 5 will present their validated MVPs to a panel of investors, mentors, and industry leaders, competing for the cash prize and additional support from MYStartup and its partners. This day marks a crucial opportunity for these startups to secure funding, gain exposure, and elevate their businesses to new heights.