Global Incubator Programme - Gateway to Asia
Innovate UK’s Global Incubator Programme, delivered in partnership with Innovate UK EDGE, is an acceleration programme for innovative businesses to work with world-leading incubators abroad.
We are currently accepting applications for up to 8 innovative SMEs in the agrifood and innovative food and beverage sectors to join our programme with GROW in Singapore. The programme will be delivered virtually with opportunities for a physical presence in Singapore in accordance with public health guidelines and upon request.
This is a four-stage programme, including preparation workshops a (virtual) market visit, (virtual) incubation (18 Oct 2021 – 14 Apr 2022) and subsequent exploitation of the programme. Key elements include:
- Understanding Asia (2 weeks)
A series of virtual workshops to elaborate on the benefits and opportunities of trading in the region using Singapore as a gateway. Participants will undertake a process to start thinking about the ASEAN region and the nuances that exist in these markets.
- Goal Setting & Testing the Opportunity (6 weeks)
Masterclasses, interactive workshops, on-line resources and one-on-one coaching focused on building roadmaps for product development & adaptation to Asian market; in-market customer validation; legal and regulatory requirements to establish a business in the region.
- Scaling in Asia and Securing Opportunities (7 weeks)
One-on-one coaching, mentoring and expert sessions focused on: go-to-market strategy; value chain optimisation; customer acquisition; local partnerships; sales & marketing; and raising capital. Includes introductions to partners, customers, investors, corporates and service providers and participation in pitch events.
- Launching into Asia (5 weeks)
Individual, tailored support to build a local team and establish business structures. COVID permitting, it is anticipated that this phase will include in-person visits by the participants. However, if this is not possible, the GROW team can provide appropriate in-country support.
We welcome applications from agrifood tech and innovative food & beverage businesses involved in (but not limited to) the following areas:
- Controlled environment agriculture
- Sustainable food production systems
- Plant-based foods
- Alternative proteins
- Functional ingredients
- Food traceability and provenance
- Food waste
HOW TO APPLY? The Global Incubator Programme has a competitive application process where only the best applications will be successful following an evaluation process. Those shortlisted will be interviewed by a panel and finalists will undergo financial eligibility checks. All applications must be made online through the Innovate UK EDGE website and received no later than 23:45 on 12 Sep 2021. To support potential applicants, a Global Incubator Programme briefing will take place on 2 Sep 2021. Innovate UK is committed to improving the diversity of who we support. As such we welcome applications from those under-represented in the agrifood sector.
Useful links:
Global Incubator Programme – Agrifood – Singapore, Gateway to Asia – Flyer: https://rb.gy/2pcfv0
Global Incubator Programme – Agrifood – Singapore, Gateway to Asia – Application Form: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/PYXG9FB
Global Incubator Programme – Business acceleration for SMEs: https://www.innovateukedge.ukri.org/enter-new-markets/Global-Incubator-Programme