NUS Enterprise and Microsoft launch innovative Generative AI Accelerate programme to nurture Asia’s next generation of AI start-ups
Entrepreneurship activities in the intersections of new generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) models and internet technologies will drive innovation and shape the future of economies. At the forefront of this convergence is the new Generative AI Accelerate Programme to advance such start-ups – launched by NUS Enterprise through its flagship global start-up development platform BLOCK71, in collaboration with industry leader Microsoft.
By harnessing the capabilities of Microsoft's cutting-edge AI technologies and platforms, participating start-ups gained unprecedented access to tools, support, and opportunities that enable them to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. As part of the programme offered since March 2024, participants received expert advice on their integration and optimisation needs to build a sustainable technology stack for Gen AI, networked with mentors, investors and founders who are passionate about growing Gen AI in the region, and immersed themselves in the region’s vibrant start-up ecosystem through a four-month incubation period at BLOCK71’s Southeast Asian nodes.
Associate Professor Benjamin Tee, Vice President (Ecosystem Building) at NUS, explained, “The Generative AI Accelerate Programme seeks to identify and accelerate the growth of promising pre-Series A start-ups working on generative AI models with a unique intensive eight-week programme and 16-week support in our BLOCK71 Southeast Asian ecosystem. Working with Microsoft, we hope to nurture Asia’s next generation of AI start-ups through this programme.”
One of the start-ups selected for the programme is Lingosnap, an education technology app that was nurtured from the NUS ecosystem. Founded by two NUS graduates, Mr Phang Wei Jun and Mr Francis Lee, the start-up has greatly benefitted from several NUS Enterprise initiatives, including the Graduate Research Innovation Programme (GRIP), THE HANGAR, and BLOCK71. As an educational app, Lingosnap has also leveraged the University's resources and expertise, drawing on advice from established professors.
A visual-based language learning app, Lingosnap enables users to learn new languages by taking photos of objects and landmarks. This innovative method provides an engaging and interactive way to acquire practical language skills on the go, teaching words, phrases, and sentences through the camera of a mobile device. These capabilities demand sophisticated generative AI technologies, and through the Generative AI Programme, Lingosnap has significantly augmented its platform's capabilities and enhanced user experiences.
Lingosnap’s co-founder Mr Francis Lee found the programme to be very useful, sharing that it has equipped Lingosnap with the essential resources and knowledge to innovate and market its products. “The programme's technical expertise in AI, machine learning, and NLP (natural language processing) have been instrumental in helping Lingosnap refine our language learning products. Their guidance on business development, particularly in market research and go-to-market strategies, have also been invaluable in ensuring our products reach the right audience,” he said.
The Generative AI Accelerate Programme is also designed to be highly adaptable and responsive to the evolving needs of participants. It offers tailored support and guidance every step of the way. From refining business models to accessing funding opportunities, participants receive comprehensive assistance to help them realise their goals and drive sustainable growth.
Start-up Pebblely, which uses generative image technology to create attractive product photos and turning flatlay apparel to AI model shoots benefitted from the mentorship of Mr David Kwok, a seasoned professional within Microsoft's expansive network. As Pebblely’s designated mentor, Mr Kwok played a pivotal role in providing invaluable advice, strategic direction, and introductions to potential customers; helping Pebblely navigate the intricacies of the AI-driven innovation landscape with finesse.
“The adjustable market for Pebblely is significantly larger than they thought and Pebblely’s potential in terms of market size and valuation is considerably greater,” noted Mr Kwok.
Central to the Generative AI Accelerate Programme's success is the strong emphasis on collaboration and community building. Through Microsoft's extensive network of experts, and BLOCK71’s network of mentors and industry leaders, participants gained invaluable insights and guidance, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals; fostering a dynamic ecosystem of innovation and knowledge exchange. This collaborative spirit not only accelerates the development of groundbreaking AI technologies but also cultivates a supportive network that extends beyond the duration of the programme.
Another participating start-up is Librarian, which is developing an AI-powered Personal Assistant capable of managing the user’s calendar, summarising lengthy email threads, and locating files on the user’s device drive, among other functionalities. It has used feedback from the programme mentors to introduce new features, such as WhatsApp integration, distinguishing it from competitors.
Tapping into the extensive network of BLOCK71, it recruited numerous beta testers, gaining invaluable feedback that was instrumental in refining its product. By engaging beta testers early in the development process, Librarian has also established a sense of ownership and investment among its user community—a crucial foundation for long-term success and sustainability.
The Generative AI Accelerate Programme has played a pivotal role in accelerating the growth and development of Lingosnap, Pebblely and Librarian. Through mentorship, resources, and access to Microsoft's AI technologies, these start-ups have been able to enhance their platform's capabilities, refine their business models, and scale their operations to reach a wider audience.
As they continue to evolve and expand their footprint within their respective industries, the mentorship by NUS Enterprise and Microsoft remains indispensable assets for these start-ups, guiding them through the complexities of scaling operations, navigating market dynamics, and seizing new opportunities for innovation and growth.
Lingosnap, Pebblely and Librarian will feature their solutions at the Generative AI Accelerate Programme Demo Day taking place on the first day of InnovFest x Elevating Founders 2024. They are among 200 innovative start-ups that will be showcasing their groundbreaking technologies at the event – Asia’s largest university start-up showcase, held from 29 to 31 May 2024 at Singapore Expo Hall 5. Register or find out more at the InnovFest website.
By NUS Enterprise
