Global venture capital firm 500 Startups is now accepting applicants for the 3rd batch of its Global Launch Program in Singapore and San Francisco. The program utilizes the firm’s ecosystem of founders, mentors, and investors to help startups launch locally and scale globally.
Since it was established in 2010, 500 Startups has invested in over 2,400 companies and has helped over 5,000 entrepreneurs across more than 70 countries. It has investments in multiple unicorns such as Udemy, Talkdesk, Grab, Canva, GitLab, Bukalapak, Intercom, and Credit Karma.
In 2019, the firm partnered up with Enterprise Singapore to introduce its Global Launch Program in the two regions to provide opportunities for startups to grow. The two programs work together in a partnership to give each other insight on how to scale their business in a foreign market. The program was designed to help startups develop business expansion and growth strategies. The program will provide access to 500 Startups mentors and founders who have significant business experience in the Southeast Asian Region and in the US. Qualified startups will also have access to the firm’s extensive network of investors.
“Singapore and San Francisco are among leading startup ecosystems globally. Through our global launch programs, we aim to strengthen the bridge between the two hubs–leveraging Singapore’s position in Southeast Asia and San Francisco’s reputation as a technology hub,” Said Ee Ling Lim, Regional Director of Asia-Pacific Business Development, 500 Startups.
The program will be open for applications until February 26, 2021. The firm will then hold an interview/offer period from February 27 to March 19, 2021. Startups who qualify will be entering the program, which will be structured in two phases. The first 8-week virtual program will be held from March 29 to May 21, 2021. The second phase is set to start within the second half of this year.