SHAH ALAM - The Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology and Innovation (MRANTI) successfully concluded its 2024 Global Accelerator Programme (GAP) with an inspiring Sharing Day event, showcasing 20 innovative companies and their transformative solutions addressing global challenges.
With the theme Tech for Impact, GAP 2024 focused on three key areas aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs): Food Security and Sustainability (UN SDG 2), Healthcare (UN SDG 3), and Renewable Energy (UN SDG 7).
These focus areas were identified through comprehensive research as critical issues both nationally and globally.
The programme provided startups with access to funding, mentorship, and a global entrepreneurial network, enabling connections with industry partners and experienced mentors.
GAP’s eighth cohort included 20 companies: six in Food Security, eight in Healthcare, four in Renewable Energy, and two in Sustainable Production.
One of the highlights of the programme was its collaboration with the Asia School of Business (ASB), offering participants an opportunity to be nominated for The Earthshot Prize, a prestigious global sustainability award.
The Sharing Day event aimed to connect startups with investors and foster collaboration within Malaysia’s innovation ecosystem.
MRANTI’s Chief Ecosystem Officer Safuan Zairi emphasised the importance of a well-coordinated ecosystem to transform ideas into real-world solutions.
"Malaysia’s potential to be a global innovation hub is undeniable, but it requires a well-coordinated ecosystem to translate ideas into impactful solutions.
"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," he said.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Business Angel Network (MBAN) President Peter Wee highlighted how programmes like GAP play a crucial role in building trust between startups and investors, strengthening the country’s innovation landscape.
"We have many talented innovators in Malaysia, but they often lack access to the necessary investments to take their first step toward success.
"Programmes like this instill 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," he said.
Since its inception, GAP has supported 58 companies, generating RM67.28 million in revenue and investments.
The 2024 cohort underwent an intensive eight-week programme, culminating in Demo Day, where they pitched their solutions to global investors and industry leaders.
Selected companies featured during the Sharing Day include N&E Innovations, Kineflux, PlusVibes, Qarbotech, Aigro, Vidanex, Renewcell, Materials In Works, and Pacton Technologies.