UK startup builder Nova to launch second cohort for Southeast Asian startups

UK-based startup builder Nova announced that it will run a second cohort in January to further invest in Southeast Asia, following its first cohort that was launched in November.

Photo credit: Nova

Launched in 2009, the Liverpool-based tech startup builder invests in startups at the idea stage and partners with entrepreneurs from sectors across healthtech, fintech, and edtech, providing them with mentorship, guidance, and funding.

Having launched more than 80 growth-focused tech startups in the UK, Nova will focus on enterprises with founders based across Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta as it moves forward.

For the upcoming program, the “strongest applications” will each receive a 300,000 pound (US$407,000) investment and will work with Nova’s support to build and grow their startups. Applications for the second cohort are now open until January 31, 2021.

From the first cohort, six startups have been identified and are preparing to receive pre-seed investment, which will be delivered as a blend of cash and a one-year runway of technology and marketing support. These startups include:

• Aerfreight, which provides a new way to book air freight as fast as customers can book plane tickets.
• EzB, a mobile and web-based animated interactive learning platform for preschool and primary school children that incorporates official national curriculums.
• Game-Reflect, which offers game-based training to introduce fresh graduates to the corporate world.
• JiPay, a financial services platform for domestic workers that offers reloadable credit cards for daily household purchases and remittances.
• Mooxiq, an interactive streaming platform that allows musicians to perform online concerts and get tips.
• Psikologimu, a telemedicine application that allows patients to receive consultations from licensed psychologists of their choice through chat, voice mail, and video.