Singapore Management University’s Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship has opened applications for the 13th Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition, a deep-tech startup contest for teams tackling urban and sustainability challenges.

Eligible startups must have at least one founder who is enrolled at a university or who graduated within the past five years.

Applications close on 31 March 2027. Fifty finalists will travel to Singapore from 28 September to 1 October 2027 to compete for more than S$2.5 million (US$1.95 million) in prizes.

SMU said selected finalists may join its Urban SustaInnovator accelerator and have a path to the US$10 million USI Fund, which is backing startups focused on climate resilience, resource efficiency, and sustainable mobility.

The previous edition drew entries from 91 countries. Singapore is recognized for its strengths in deep tech and sustainability.

🔗 Source: Singapore Management University’s Institute of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (SMU IIE)