The National University of Singapore (NUS) has launched a S$150 million (US$116 million) venture capital program to support early-stage deep tech startups.

The initiative, announced on July 21, addresses funding and mentorship gaps for research-based ventures in Asia, especially amid a decline in venture capital investments.

NUS will commit S$50 million (US$39 million) to VC firms like Granite Asia and 4BIO Capital, which specialize in early-stage deep tech. These partners will also offer mentorship and market access.

Another S$100 million (US$78 million) will go to an autonomous investment fund focused on NUS-affiliated startups, with the flexibility to co-invest alongside selected VCs.

This program complements the existing National GRIP, which offers up to S$250,000 (US$194,000) in seed funding. It focuses on accelerating growth after the seed stage, helping startups transition from lab research to commercial deployment.