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Top 20 Accelerators for Early-Stage Startups in Asia in 2025

Top 20 Accelerators for Early-Stage Startups in Asia in 2025

Top 20 Accelerators for Early-Stage Startups in Asia in 2025

As Asia continues to be a hotspot for entrepreneurship and innovation, a variety of accelerators are emerging to support early-stage startups. These programs provide not only funding but also mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities essential for startup growth. Here’s a comprehensive list of the Top 20 Accelerators for Early-Stage Startups in Asia for 2025, detailing their offerings and potential benefits.
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1. Entrepreneur First (EF) Bangalore, India

Description: A global talent investor and accelerator that assists ambitious individuals in building technology startups from scratch.
Focus: Technology startups, especially with a strong technical co-founder.
Program Length: Typically 6 months.
Investment: Funding amount varies as they support teams formed through their platform.
Data Points:
  • Application Deadline: Feb 11, 2025, for the current cohort (applications open year-round).
  • Global Network: Access to a larger global network of entrepreneurs.
  • Mentorship: Strong network of mentors available.
  • Team Formation: Helps individuals find co-founders.
  • Equity Stake: Takes a percentage of equity for the investment.
  • Learn more about Entrepreneur First

2. 9Unicorns, India

Description: An early-stage startup accelerator and venture capital fund focused on fostering innovation across various industries.
Focus: Diverse sectors and early-stage startups.
Investment Size: $100,000 to $500,000.
Equity Stake: Typically 7% to 9% equity.
Data Points:
  • Launched: 2019.
  • Stage: Focus on early-stage ventures.
  • Financial Support: Provides funding alongside strategic guidance.
  • Program Focus: Aims to refine business models and strategies.
  • Location: Based in India.
  • Discover 9Unicorns

3. Antler India

Description: Part of a global network, assisting early-stage founders with resources, mentorship, and investment.
Focus: Early-stage technology startups, especially for individuals without teams or pre-formed ideas.
Program Length: Usually 6 months.
Investment: Up to $100,000 for 10% equity (variable).
Data Points:
  • Global Reach: Connected to a larger global Antler Network.
  • Team Formation: Facilitates co-founder and team building.
  • Mentorship: Offers a strong network of mentors.
  • Resources: Provides essential resources for startups.
  • Early Stage Focus: Aimed at idea to pre-seed stage startups.
  • Learn more about Antler India
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4. LongHash Ventures, Singapore

Description: A leading global blockchain accelerator advancing the Web 3.0 economy, nurturing blockchain startups across Asia.
Focus: Blockchain and Web3 startups.
Program Length: 16 weeks.
Investment Stage: Early Stage Venture and Seed rounds.
Data Points:
  • Founded: 2018.
  • Network: Significant presence across Singapore, China, Hong Kong, and Japan.
  • Mentorship: Offers hands-on guidance and resources.
  • Portfolio: Includes 78 organizations.
  • Investments: Total of 83 investments made.
  • Explore LongHash Ventures

5. Surge (by Sequoia Capital), Singapore/India/Southeast Asia

Description: An intensive program offering seed funding and mentorship for startups across India and Southeast Asia.
Focus: Wider range of startups across the region.
Investment Size: $1 million to $2 million in seed funding.
Data Points:
  • Founded: 2019.
  • Program Focus: Workshops, international exposure, and tailored mentorship.
  • Portfolio: Supports 123 organizations.
  • Investments: Involved in 179 investments.
  • Exits: Achieved 3 IPO exits thus far.
  • Discover Surge

6. Plug and Play APAC

Description: A global innovation platform that connects startups with corporations for collaboration and growth.
Focus: Cross-industry startups.
Program Length: 3 months.
Investment: Varies from $50k to $250k.
Data Points:
  • Founded: 2006.
  • Portfolio: Houses 306 companies from diverse sectors.
  • Sectors: Includes Enterprise Applications and High-Tech industries.
  • Global Network: Strong connections across multiple industries.
  • Mentorship: Offers access to seasoned industry mentors and networking.
  • Learn more about Plug and Play APAC

7. Accelerating Asia, Singapore

Description: An early-stage venture capital fund and accelerator targeting pre-Series A startups.
Focus: Startups from Southeast and South Asia at pre-Series A stage.
Program Length: 100 days.
Investment: Up to $250k.
Data Points:
  • Location: Singapore-based.
  • Mentorship: Provides mentorship and direct investor access.
  • VC Fund: Has a venture capital arm for additional investments.
  • Portfolio: Over 45 companies accelerated to date.
  • Funding Raised: Portfolio companies have raised $36 million in total funding.
  • Learn more about Accelerating Asia

8. BLOCK71, Singapore

Description: NUS Enterprise's hub for entrepreneurship, providing resources for startups aiming to scale.
Focus: Technology and innovation-driven startups.
Program Length: Varies depending on specific programs.
Investment: Primarily offers support resources rather than direct financial investment.
Data Points:
  • Location: Based in Singapore with a global network.
  • Resources: Accessible mentorship and networking opportunities.
  • Mentorship: Links startups with NUS resources and expertise.
  • Network: Connections extend to China, Indonesia, and the US.
  • Stage: Focus on early-stage startups with existing teams.
  • Discover BLOCK71
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9. Founder Institute Japan

Description: A structured accelerator aimed at transforming ideas into fundable startups with robust mentorship.
Focus: Idea and Pre-seed stage startups.
Program Length: Varies (comprised of core and advanced components).
Investment: No direct investment is made; emphasis on investment readiness.
Data Points:
  • Global Network: Part of an established global network.
  • Mentorship: Provides access to leading investors and entrepreneurs.
  • Curriculum: Follows a structured approach to building startups.
  • Alumni Support: Offers free access to advanced programs for alumni.
  • Events: Hosts networking events to connect startups with resources.
  • Learn more about Founder Institute Japan

10. Orbit Startups, Shanghai, China

Description: An accelerator dedicated to startups in emerging markets with a focus on rapid iteration.
Focus: Startups in emerging and frontier markets, particularly in China and India.
Investment: Has invested $70 million, with a portfolio raising a total of $728 million.
Data Points:
  • Network: Over 500 mentors and more than 180 corporate partners worldwide.
  • Focus: Emphasizes rapid iteration and market-feedback mechanisms.
  • Markets: Significant presence in high-growth regions like China and India.
  • Investments: Portfolio companies yield considerable funding post-acceleration.
  • Support: Extensive support framework provided throughout.
  • Discover Orbit Startups

11. Y Combinator (YC)

Description: One of the most renowned global startup accelerators offering significant support to early-stage startups.
Focus: Wide array of technology startups.
Investment: Generally provides $125,000 for 7% equity.
Program Length: 3 months.
Data Points:
  • Global Network: Connects to extensive alumni networks and mentors.
  • Success Rate: Produced successful startups like Airbnb and Stripe.
  • Demo Day: Highly attended culminating pitch event for investors.
  • Focus: Aims to refine business pitches and strategies.
  • Program: Intensive curriculum designed for growth.
  • Learn more about Y Combinator

12. Techstars

Description: A global accelerator committed to providing resources and mentorship to early-stage startups.
Focus: Diverse technology startups across global locations.
Program Length: 3 months.
Investment: Amount varies by program.
Data Points:
  • Global Reach: Multiple locations around the world.
  • Mentorship: Extensive network of industry mentors available.
  • Access: Opportunities to connect with investors and resources.
  • Network: A large global community of innovators.
  • Stage: Typically caters to early-stage startups.
  • Explore Techstars

13. 500 Startups

Description: A prominent global accelerator and venture capital firm dedicated to early-stage funded startups.
Focus: Supports various startup sectors.
Program Length: 16 weeks.
Investment: Varies by specific program.
Data Points:
  • Global Network: Comprehensive support across various regions.
  • Stage: Early-stage advocacy.
  • Mentorship: Strong mentorship and networking opportunities provided.
  • Portfolio: Manages a diverse portfolio of companies.
  • Sector: Sector-agnostic, promoting innovation in multiple arenas.
  • Discover 500 Startups
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14. Dreamit Ventures, Singapore

Description: An accelerator focusing on startups in healthcare, real estate, and security sectors, promoting accelerated growth through mentor support.
Focus: Vertical-specific healthcare, security, and real estate tech.
Program Length: 14 weeks.
Investment: Investment size varies by cohort.
Data Points:
  • Global Presence: Strong international network.
  • Mentorship: Extensive mentorship from industry experts.
  • Support: Access to resources and industry connections.
  • Funding: Assists startups in securing further investment opportunities.
  • Market Fit Focus: Emphasizes product-market fit in all stages.
  • Learn more about Dreamit Ventures

15. Gobi Partners, Asia

Description: A highly reputable venture capital firm that runs accelerators, focusing on connecting entrepreneurs to capital and innovative ecosystems.
Focus: Tech startups poised for the Asian market.
Program Length: 12-14 weeks.
Investment Size: Varies as per cohort.
Data Points:
  • Established Presence: In multiple Asian cities, providing strong regional coverage.
  • Expert Mentorship: Offers expertise in global markets.
  • Partnerships: Collaborations with various innovation hubs.
  • Funding Opportunities: Facilitates access to later-stage investors.
  • Network: Strong connections to a diverse range of investors.
  • Discover Gobi Partners

16. The Venture Reality Fund, Asia

Description: Focused on startups omnipresent in the new reality of VR and AR technologies, fostering an ecosystem of innovation.
Focus: Virtual and augmented reality technology.
Investment Size: Varies widely based on the stage and potential of startups.
Data Points:
  • Global Reach: Investing in startups that impact global markets.
  • Industry Experts: Access to VR/AR industry specialists.
  • Innovation Focus: Targeting radically new ideas in digital spaces.
  • Support Programs: Engages startups with targeted support initiatives.
  • Market Analysis: Extensive market insights provided to founders.
  • Learn more about The Venture Reality Fund

17. Tsinghua x-lab, China

Description: An innovation and entrepreneurship platform under Tsinghua University, aiding startups through education and resources.
Focus: Diverse sectors, heavily leaning towards tech and innovation.
Program Length: Flexible, depending on specific initiatives.
Investment: Typically varies; funding is often leveraged.
Data Points:
  • Academic Backing: Strong institutional support from Tsinghua University.
  • Mentorship: Extensive guidance from professors and industry veterans.
  • Networking Events: Regular events to connect startups with investors.
  • Research Support: Opportunities for startups to access research resources.
  • Global Collaborations: Partnerships with international institutions.
  • Explore Tsinghua x-lab

18. Chinachem Charitable Foundation, Hong Kong

Description: Focused on supporting social enterprises and startups in Hong Kong, providing resources for substantial societal impact.
Focus: Social enterprises aiming to drive significant societal change.
Program Length: Varies depending on specific initiatives.
Investment: Primarily in grant form rather than equity.
Data Points:
  • Mission-Driven Focus: Concentrated on societal betterment through entrepreneurship.
  • Support Initiatives: Facilitates access to critical resources and mentorship.
  • Community Engagement: Involves community engagement in evaluation processes.
  • Sustainability Focus: Emphasizes sustainable business practices.
  • Network Growth: Expands opportunities through community networks and resources.
  • Learn more about Chinachem Charitable Foundation

19. SCALE, Asia

Description: A startup accelerator focusing on scaling tech businesses, providing education, resources, and networking.
Focus: Technology startups looking to scale.
Program Length: 6 months.
Investment: Typically in the form of equity or convertible notes.
Data Points:
  • Network Opportunities: Extensive connections to industry leaders.
  • Tailored Support: Customized programs to fit specific startup needs.
  • Workshops and Events: Regular sessions to foster learning and growth.
  • Mentorship: Access to seasoned entrepreneurs for guidance.
  • Market Development: Focuses on helping startups navigate their scaling processes.
  • Discover SCALE

20. SEED, Asia

Description: Focused on providing seed funding and mentorship to founders driving innovation.
Focus: Seed stage startups across various industries.
Program Length: 4 months.
Investment: Ranges from $50k to $500k, depending on the startup.
Data Points:
  • Early Stage Focus: Specifically targeting early-stage companies.
  • Comprehensive Support: Offers continued support post-acceleration.
  • Investor Access: Connects startups directly with potential investors.
  • Innovation Hub: Hosts various innovation competitions and events.
  • Global Outreach: Focused on connecting local startups to the global market.
  • Learn more about SEED
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, details can change rapidly. It is recommended to check official accelerator websites for the most current program specifics.
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FAQ

Q: What is Entrepreneur First best known for?
A: Entrepreneur First is a global talent investor that helps individuals build technology startups from scratch by assisting them in finding co-founders and developing their ideas. Learn more about Entrepreneur First.
Q: How much funding does 9Unicorns provide to startups?
A: 9Unicorns offers funding ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 to early-stage startups in various industries, taking around 7% to 9% equity in return. Discover 9Unicorns.
Q: What is the focus of Antler India?
A: Antler India focuses on supporting early-stage technology startups, particularly those without pre-formed teams or ideas, offering resources, mentorship, and investment. Explore Antler India.
Q: What type of startups does LongHash Ventures cater to?
A: LongHash Ventures specializes in nurturing early-stage blockchain and Web3 startups across key Asian hubs, providing them with mentorship and support. Learn more about LongHash Ventures.
Q: What are the key features of the Surge program by Sequoia Capital?
A: Surge offers seed funding ranging from $1 million to $2 million, intensive workshops, and mentorship aimed at startups in India and Southeast Asia. Discover Surge by Sequoia Capital.
Q: What support does Plug and Play APAC provide?
A: Plug and Play APAC connects startups with corporations across various industries, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and potential funding between $50k to $250k. Learn more about Plug and Play APAC.
Q: What is unique about Accelerating Asia's focus?
A: Accelerating Asia targets pre-Series A startups in South and Southeast Asia, providing mentorship, investment up to $250k, and access to a network of investors. Discover Accelerating Asia.
Q: How does BLOCK71 support startups?
A: BLOCK71, operated by NUS Enterprise, offers resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities for technology and innovation startups in Singapore, aiming to foster growth and development. Explore BLOCK71.
Q: What stage does the Founder Institute Japan cater to?
A: The Founder Institute Japan focuses on idea and pre-seed stage startups, providing a structured process to build a startup along with mentorship and community support. Learn more about Founder Institute Japan.
Q: What kind of startups does Orbit Startups target?
A: Orbit Startups specializes in startups from emerging and frontier markets, particularly China and India, focusing on rapid iteration and market feedback. Discover Orbit Startups.

About the Author

Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur.
Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).
She is the founder of Fe/male Switch, a startup game that encourages women to enter STEM fields, and also leads CADChain, and multiple other projects like the Directory of 1,000 Startup Cities with a proprietary MeanCEO Index that ranks cities for female entrepreneurs. Violetta created the "gamepreneurship" methodology, which forms the scientific basis of her startup game. She also builds a lot of SEO tools for startups. Her achievements include being named one of the top 100 women in Europe by EU Startups in 2022 and being nominated for Impact Person of the year at the Dutch Blockchain Week. She is an author with Sifted and a speaker at different Universities. Recently she published a book on Startup Idea Validation the right way: from zero to first customers and beyond and launched a Directory of 1,500+ websites for startups to list themselves in order to gain traction and build backlinks.
2025-06-01 07:20 Top 20