MYStartup, in partnership with the Malaysian startup accelerator Watchtower and Friends (WTF), has announced the return of the MYStartup Pre-Accelerator Programme, with applications now open for its fourth iteration. This year’s programme is designed to support pre-seed and early-stage startups from various sectors, with a strong focus on technology-led solutions. Applications are open until June 23, 2024.
Running from June through September 2024, the pre-accelerator programme will offer a tailored module aimed at fast-tracking development and scaling growth. Selected startups will gain access to a wealth of resources, including world-class mentorship and an outcome-based curriculum. The top five startups from the cohort will also qualify for an intensive fundraising accelerator programme, providing them with the necessary support to succeed beyond the pre-accelerator stage.
The MYStartup Pre-Accelerator Cohort 4 Programme is meticulously designed to provide early-stage startups with a comprehensive learning experience over four months. With three sessions per week, each lasting three hours, the programme covers a range of essential topics:
Week 1: Founders’ Foundations
- Aligning co-founder goals
- Crafting mission and vision statements
- Using Objectives and Key Results (OKRs)
Week 2: Business Model Canvas
- Developing business models
- Customer profiling
- Market analysis
Week 3: Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
- Designing MVPs
- Resource specifications
- Launch roadmaps
Week 4: Market Validation
- Conducting validation research
- Gathering user feedback
- Iterating MVPs
Week 5: Early-stage Fundamentals
- Exploring valuations
- Funding options
- Legal documents
- Pitching techniques
Week 6: ESG for Startups
- Understanding Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Governance
- Aligning startups with SDGs
This structured programme equips participants with the essential knowledge and tools to build and scale successful startups.
An initiative by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and spearheaded by MYStartup, the pre-accelerator programme plays a crucial role in the Malaysian startup ecosystem. It bridges the gap between innovative ideas and viable businesses, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation.
The success of previous cohorts has been notable, with startups like Deepsight securing a grant of RM100,000, successfully launching products on Google Play and the App Store, and forming strategic partnerships. Additionally, startups such as Rabt, PropMoth, and PyceHub are in discussions to secure potential investments totaling approximately RM1.5 million.
Startups interested in participating in the MYStartup Pre-Accelerator Cohort 4 are encouraged to apply. For more information and to apply, please visit Watchtower and Friends website.
