The Startup Global Program implemented by the National Development Council is helping establish Taiwan as a trusted partner when it comes to promoting entrepreneurship and global innovation, the NDC said May 8.
A collaboration with Taipei City-based incubator Garage +, the SGP aims to bridge international startups with top-tier local companies that are key players in the global supply chain. Applications are open for startups specializing in sectors such as artificial intelligence, data analysis, digital health, 5G networks, robotics, smart devices and smart energy.
Since its launch in 2015, the SGP has received applications from more than 3,300 startups in 90 countries and territories. As of this year, 316 teams from 30 countries have been invited to take part in the initiative, with one-third of them having established partnerships with high-tech powerhouses such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp., MediaTek Inc. and Quanta Computer Inc.
Among these, France-based Wise Integration has teamed up with TSMC to develop a digital microcontroller that leverages gallium nitride technology; Australia-based Calumino obtained investment from Tainan City-based Himax Technologies Inc. for its thermal sensor module, while Italy-based Exein introduced its smart security solutions to chips designed by Hsinchu City-based MediaTek.
According to the NDC’s Department of Industrial Development, the success of the SGP stems from Taiwan’s semiconductor manufacturing prowess, stable business environment and high-tech talent pool. These advantages make the country a key hub for global startups interested in testing their innovations for the Asian market, the department said, adding that program serves as a great starting point in this regard.
For the first round of the initiative this year, the NDC said 18 teams selected from 239 submissions in 35 countries and territories will visit Taiwan for COMPUTEX/InnoVex, which is set for May 17-24 in Taipei. (SFC-E)
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