Huawei launches its accelerator program for deep-tech startups

China’s tech giant Huawei today launched its Spark accelerator program in Singapore. It aims to incubate and accelerate deep-tech startup growth in the Asia-Pacific region, as well as build an ecosystem for startups.

The six-month acceleration program is organized by Huawei Cloud in partnership with Enterprise Singapore and Startup SG.

Photo credit: badboydt7 / 123RF

Huawei will invest “millions of dollars” to support deep-tech startups focusing on 5G, AI or machine learning and analytics, internet of things, and mobile edge computing, as well as mobile and software-as-a-service applications.

During the program, startups will receive free cloud resources and hardware support, including AI modules and AI-based intelligent industry solutions. They will also be provided open-source software support to develop their own applications, services, and hardware appliances.

The Spark accelerator program will offer assistance from seed stage to late stage, including cloud credits of up to US$125,000, AI development fund of up to US$100,000, and technical, training, and go-to-market support.

Huawei will also work with the eligible startups as a business partner, giving them access to its global enterprise client portfolio as well as its more than 600 million mobile users and millions of enterprise users across the globe.

The Chinese company said that it has already received more than 200 applications from global startups. It is accepting proposals until October 4.

The top 15 startups will be shortlisted to proceed to the next round, where Huawei experts will mentor them and help fine-tune their business proposals. The top five will be selected to pitch virtually in November.

The top two winners will be awarded US$125,000 in cloud credits, a S$30,000 (US$22,035) Startup SG grant, and admission to the Accelerator tier.

Currency converted from Singapore dollar to US dollar: US$1 = S$1.36.