SG transit operator, NUS to back startups boosting train station retailers

The National University of Singapore (NUS) is collaborating with public transport operator SMRT Corporation to find startups that can rejuvenate retailers within the latter’s train station premises.

Reachbots Automation co-founder Rayner Tan (left) showing their robot to SMRT Corporation chairman Seah Moon Ming (middle) and board member Abu Bakar Mohd Nor (right). / Photo credit: SMRT

The two will identify and support startups from the NUS Enterprise’s Technology Access Program to provide digital solutions to some 600 SMEs working with Stellar Lifestyle, SMRT’s business arm and the largest managing agent of retail and advertising spaces in Singapore’s rail network.

So far, 14 startups have been shortlisted from the 30 that applied to join the program. Two firms that were highlighted were robotics startup Reachbots Automation and point-of-sale platform Waffle Technologies. 

Each startup will have three months to develop a scalable business model, a technology commercialization strategy that addresses Stellar Lifestyle’s business needs, and build a minimum viable product (MVP). 

Stellar Lifestyle has set aside S$100,000 (US$72,794) to support teams in building their MVPs. Selected teams will spend the next six months fine-tuning the solution on-site. 

The company may invest an additional US$145,588 to scale up its preferred solutions following their pitches at the program’s demo day. 

Stellar Lifestyle is looking to innovate in areas such as retailer operational efficiency, retailer tech expertise, and new retail experiences that match commuters’ preferences.

“Startups will have the opportunity to pilot their solutions that address real-world problems and collaborate with a corporate partner to bring them to market,” said Professor Freddy Boey, deputy president for innovation and enterprise at NUS.

See also: 50 rising startups in Singapore

Currency converted from Singapore dollar to US dollar: US$1 = S$1.37.