Optus Innov8 startups to benefit from assistance to enter new markets

Startups in Asia-Pacific will now get more help entering new markets across the region, with the launch of Innov8Sparks today. A first of its kind in the region, Innov8Sparks is a network of technology startup support initiatives, from the SingTel Group and its regional mobile associates.

Founding members of Innov8Sparks include SingTel Innov8, AIS The Startup, Kickstart Ventures, Optus-Innov8 Seed, and Telkomsel “Teman-Dev”.

The formation of this network will mean supported startups benefit from the assistance of Innov8 Sparks’ member programs to expand outside their home markets, into Australia, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. This is unique to Innov8 Sparks.

For example, supported startups of Innov8 Sparks member programmes moving into regional markets will be provided working space, introductions to local partners and startup communities, as well as local market information and resources.

Expanding beyond local shores is never easy for startups in the region, but the head start provided by Innov8 Sparks members will help increase their chances of success.

SingTel Innov8 CEO Edgar Hardless says the formation of Innov8Sparks will help accelerate the growth of the startup industry and technology innovation in the Asia Pacific region.

“With our added ability to foster cross-border collaboration and cross-pollination of portfolio startups across the group, it will now be easier for startups to launch their new offering quickly and successfully,” Hardless says.

Seed Innovation & Investments director Peter Huynh says the Innov8 Sparks is a great opportunity for Innov8 supported startups in Australia.

“The reciprocal nature of the initiative means not only can we support Asia-based startups to enter our market; we can also help our supported startups to expand into new markets across the APAC region – giving them a better chance of success with local knowledge, contacts and co-working space,” Huynh says.