Top 21 Startup Accelerators & Incubators in Malaysia

Malaysia has been on an ambitious journey to become a leading startup hub, with a target of attracting 5,000 new ventures by 2030. As a pioneer in the ASEAN region's digital economy, Malaysia has introduced the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint, establishing itself as a prime destination for entrepreneurial ventures. With its strategic location, advanced infrastructure, supportive policies, and vibrant talent pool, the country is ripe for startup growth. Central to this ecosystem are the accelerators and incubators that help nurture and propel new businesses.

This article provides a detailed list of Malaysia's top 21 startup accelerators and incubators, suituible for startups at different stages, whether at 'ideation', 'launch', or 'growth' stage. This guide will assist you in finding the program that best aligns with your startup's needs.

Understanding Startup Incubators vs. Accelerators

Both accelerators and incubators aim to support startup growth, but they differ in their approaches and timelines. Incubators focus on nurturing early-stage startups by providing essential coaching, mentoring, and infrastructure tailored to develop nascent ideas and businesses. They emphasize personalized support to help startups build a strong foundation.

Accelerators, on the other hand, are designed to rapidly advance startups over a shorter, more intense period. They target companies with more developed concepts, preparing them for commercialization and investment. Accelerators often offer financial support in exchange for equity and end with a Demo Day where startups pitch to investors.

By understanding these differences, you can choose the program that best fits your startup's stage and needs.

Top 21 Startup Accelerators & Incubators in Malaysia

1. MaGIC (Malaysian Global Innovation & Creativity Centre)

MaGIC offers comprehensive support for startups through various initiatives tailored to different stages of business development. Their programs focus on enhancing the skills of early-stage and growth-stage startups by providing mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities. MaGIC’s ecosystem is designed to help startups refine their business models and scale effectively.

• Target: Aspiring entrepreneurs at various stages, including ideation and growth

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: MaGIC

2. Cradle Fund

Cradle Fund is an agency under the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, dedicated to supporting technology entrepreneurs through grants and commercialization services. Their programs, such as CIP Spark and Spring, offer financial aid and strategic support to help startups develop and scale their innovations, preparing them for market validation and expansion.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a promising idea or business model

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: Cradle

3. 1337 Ventures

1337 Ventures provides a range of programs, including accelerators and venture capital support, to guide startups through various stages of development. Their focus is on helping early-stage startups validate their business models, achieve product-market fit, and access funding opportunities. Their programs offer mentorship and strategic guidance to accelerate startup growth.

• Target: Startups in ideation and growth stages looking for investment and market entry

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Technology, Digital

• Program Duration: 3-6 months

• Website: 1337 Ventures

4. The Hive

The Hive SouthEast Asia provides a nurturing environment for early-stage startups, offering personalized support and a collaborative workspace. Their programs include incubation services, mentorship, and resources to help startups develop and grow their business ideas. The Hive focuses on building a solid foundation for startups through a supportive ecosystem.

• Target: Early-stage startups seeking mentoring, resources, and a collaborative workspace

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: The Hive

5. ScaleUp Malaysia

ScaleUp Malaysia is designed for mature startups looking to accelerate their growth and refine their business models. Their program focuses on scaling strategies, revenue growth, and regional expansion. ScaleUp Malaysia acts as an invisible management team and potential investor, providing strategic guidance and support to help businesses achieve high revenue growth.

• Target: Growth-stage startups aiming to scale their operations and refine their business models

• Need to Have an Idea: No

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: ScaleUp Malaysia

Read Also: Discover the Top 10 Coworking Spaces in Kuala Lumpur

6. StartupMalaysia.org

StartupMalaysia.org supports startups at various stages since 2011, offering mentorship, funding opportunities, and networking to help entrepreneurs develop and scale their businesses. Their initiatives provide comprehensive support for startups, from early-stage to growth, facilitating access to resources and strategic guidance.

• Target: Startups at early to mid-stage, including ideation and growth phases

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 3-6 months

• Website: StartupMalaysia.org

7. PitchIN

PitchIN focuses on preparing startups for investment through structured programs that include pitch training and networking opportunities. Their goal is to help startups refine their business models and connect with potential investors, ensuring they are well-prepared for market entry and funding rounds.

• Target: Startups looking to prepare for investment and market entry

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 3-6 months

• Website: PitchIN

8. GEG (Global Entrepreneur Group)

GEG supports startups with aspirations for international growth. Their program includes mentorship, market access, and strategic advice to help startups navigate global expansion challenges and opportunities. GEG’s focus is on helping startups develop a global perspective and achieve international success.

• Target: Startups at ideation and growth stages, aiming for international expansion

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: GEG

9. Axiata Digital Innovation Fund (ADIF)

ADIF supports digital and tech startups by providing funding and strategic support. Their program aims to foster innovation and help startups scale through financial backing and partnerships. ADIF focuses on enhancing digital solutions and driving technological advancements in the startup ecosystem.

• Target: Innovative startups in the digital and tech sectors

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Digital, Technology

• Program Duration: Varies

• Website: ADIF

10. Tinkr

Tinkr offers incubation support and resources for early-stage startups. Their program includes personalized support, a collaborative workspace, and access to essential resources. Tinkr focuses on helping startups develop their business ideas and scale effectively through a nurturing environment.

• Target: Early-stage startups needing incubation support and resources

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: Tinkr

11. Bio-based Accelerator Program

The Bio-based Accelerator Program is designed for biotech startups, providing guidance to enhance business performance through science, technology, and automation. The program aims to help startups achieve technology and commercial readiness for certifications like GMP and Halal. Approved companies can also apply for BioNexus Status, offering tax incentives.

• Target: Early and mature startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Biotechnology

• Program Duration: Varies

• Website: Bio-based Accelerator Program

12. Selangor Accelerator Program

The Selangor Accelerator Program helps early-stage startups become investment-ready through a structured 3-month program. Participants benefit from workshops, mentoring, and a Demo Day with a chance to win cash prizes. The program is equity-free and focuses on startups with an MVP or beta version.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Agritech, Greentech, Smart City, FinTech, HealthTech

• Program Duration: 3 months

• Website: Selangor Accelerator Program

13. Nexea

Nexea offers a range of startup development programs, including venture building, incubation, and venture capital. Their focus is on helping startups from idea formation to growth, providing mentorship, pilot funding, and validation processes. Nexea also offers a repository of ideas for entrepreneurs seeking co-founders or startup concepts.

• Target: Aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea and seeking co-founder

• Need to Have an Idea: No

• Sector Focus: Technology

• Program Duration: Varies

• Website: Nexea

14. 25 Startups

25 Startups supports innovation by helping startups develop and test new business models and technologies. Their incubators focus on sectors like blockchain, agri-tech, and fintech. The program includes access to mentors, educational resources, and a structured environment for innovation.

• Target: Aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea and seeking co-founder

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Blockchain-based Services, AgriTech, FinTech, HealthTech, EdTech, PropTech, HalalTech, InsurTech

• Program Duration: Varies

• Website: 25 Startups

15. Alpha Startups by 1337 Ventures

Alpha Startups by 1337 Ventures is an intensive 6-week bootcamp for early-stage tech startups. The program provides mentorship and access to resources to help validate business ideas and achieve product-market fit. It is free of charge and includes priority admission to funding programs.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Technology

• Program Duration: 6 weeks

• Website: Alpha Startups by 1337 Ventures

Read also: Kuala Lumpur's Flourishing Startup Ecosystem in 2023

16. WatchTower and Friends

WatchTower and Friends runs a 4-month accelerator program for tech startups. They offer mentorship, advisory services, and up to RM50,000 in seed capital. The program emphasizes strong entrepreneurship DNA and includes a Demo Day where startups can showcase their progress.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Technology

• Program Duration: 4 months

• Website: WatchTower and Friends

17. Cyberview Living Lab

Cyberview Living Lab provides a smart city environment for startups to test and validate their innovations. The 5-month program offers access to infrastructure and facilities within Cyberjaya, allowing startups to experiment and pilot their solutions before market launch.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: FinTech, IoT, Robotics & AI, Retail Tech

• Program Duration: 5 months

• Website: Cyberview Living Lab

18. Sunway AI Lab Accelerator

Sunway AI Lab Accelerator is a 4-month program that supports startups in EduTech, Smart City, Digital Health, AgrifoodTech, Retail Tech, and FinTech. The program includes a pre-accelerator phase and access to Sunway's resources, mentors, and testbed environment.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: EduTech, Smart City, Digital Health, AgrifoodTech, Retail Tech, FinTech

• Program Duration: 4 months

• Website: Sunway AI Lab Accelerator

19. HLB Launchpad

HLB Launchpad is organized by Hong Leong Bank to support startups from any sector that can contribute to the bank's sustainability themes. The 6-month program includes mentorship from HLB's C-suite, business heads, and partners, and provides opportunities for pilot projects with the bank.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: HLB Launchpad

20. Founder Institute

The Founder Institute offers a 4-month global acceleration program with a structured curriculum to help startups at various stages achieve their milestones. The program includes real-world business-building sprints, weekly feedback sessions, and working groups to support startup development and investment readiness.

• Target: Aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea, early, and mature startups

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 4 months

• Website: Founder Institute

21. MYStartup Accelerator

The MYStartup Accelerator focuses on early to growth-stage startups looking to expand regionally and globally. The program offers masterclasses, mentorship, and funding opportunities, including investments and grants. Participants also have the chance to pilot projects with over 80 corporate partners.

• Target: Early to growth-stage startups

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Technology

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: MYStartup Accelerator

Conclusion - Malaysia's startup ecosystem

Malaysia's dynamic startup ecosystem provides numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs at all stages. Whether you’re in the ideation phase or looking to scale your business, these accelerators and incubators offer valuable resources, mentorship, and funding to help you achieve your goals. Choose the program that best fits your startup’s needs and take the next step towards success.

Discover the Top 10 Coworking Spaces in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

 Looking for the best coworking spaces in Kuala Lumpur? Check out our list of the top 10 coworking spaces that provide flexible work environments, essential amenities, and a vibrant community for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs.

The way we work has evolved dramatically, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Coworking spaces have emerged as havens for professionals seeking flexible work options, a sense of community, and a better work-life balance. In this article, we'll explore the 15 best coworking spaces in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, catering to the diverse needs of remote workers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners.

The Growth of Coworking Spaces in Kuala Lumpur

The pandemic has highlighted the demand for flexible work options, and coworking spaces have become the go-to choice for professionals seeking a productive work environment. SMEs in Malaysia prioritise flexibility but also,want to keep the benefits of an office environment while enjoying the freedom to work remotely. Coworking spaces is a perfect answer by offering well-equipped facilities, including pantries, printers, high-speed Wi-Fi, and ergonomic workstations. They provide all the essentials of a traditional office, combined with the freedom to choose your own workspace and pace. Additionally, coworking spaces offer flexible contract options, making them an attractive choice for small businesses looking to minimize expenses.

Coworking spaces are also increasingly used by corporations for their event venues, and are typically an excellent choice for small-scale events, workshops, and networking sessions. Here are some key benefits of choosing a coworking space for your event: Flexibility, Tech-Ready Infrastructure, Networking Opportunities and Cost-Effectiveness.

Essential Amenities to Consider in a Coworking Space

When selecting a coworking space, it's crucial to consider the amenities that align with your work preferences. While hot desking is a popular practice in coworking spaces, some individuals prefer designated desks. Other amenities to look for include coffee bars with barista-made beverages, fully stocked pantries, private meeting rooms, phone booths, high-speed internet, business-class printers, onsite concierge staff, event spaces, and more. Some coworking spaces even provide virtual office services, offering a business address for entrepreneurs with limited capital. It's essential to choose a space that caters to your specific requirements, fostering a peaceful and collaborative environment.

Building Community and Networking Opportunities

One of the significant advantages of coworking spaces is the opportunity to connect and network with like-minded individuals from various industries. Coworking spaces curate an exciting calendar of events and workshops each month, fostering a sense of community and encouraging collaboration. Whether you're looking to expand your professional network or make new work connections, coworking spaces provide the ideal platform to socialize and forge meaningful relationships.

Explore the Best Coworking Spaces in Kuala Lumpur

1. Common Ground

Common Ground is the largest coworking space operator in Malaysia, with over 10,000 members and 10 locations across the country. The company was founded in 2011 and has since grown to become a leading provider of coworking spaces in Southeast Asia.

Common Ground's Kuala Lumpur locations are located in Bukit Bintang, KL Eco City, and Mont Kiara among others. The spaces offer a variety of amenities, including:

• Shared workspaces

• Private offices

• Virtual offices

• Meeting rooms

• High-speed internet

2. WeWork

WeWork is a global coworking space operator with over 800 locations in 150 cities around the world. The company has two locations in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: Equatorial Plaza and Mercu 2 (KL Eco City).

Choose from dedicated desks, private offices, meeting rooms, and unique common areas. The Mercu 2 location offers a bright and spacious setting, while the Equatorial Plaza location is better suited for events.

3. Colony

Colony is a coworking space that combines work and sophistication in four prestigious locations in Kuala Lumpur. Each space has its own unique design elements, but they all share a common sense of luxury and style. The flagship location at Star Boulevard KLCC is particularly impressive, with breathtaking views of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.

Whether you're a solopreneur, a small team, or a large enterprise, Colony has a space that's perfect for you. With a wide range of amenities and services, Colony can help you take your work to the next level.

4. Komune Coworking

Komune Coworking is a chain of coworking spaces in Kuala Lumpur that offers a unique and inspiring environment for work and play. With its stylish design, vibrant community, and wide range of amenities, Komune is the perfect place to get your work done, meet new people, and have fun.

5. SpaceS

Spaces is a global coworking space operator with over 3,000 locations in 120 countries. In Kuala Lumpur, Spaces has 10 locations, including:

• Spaces KLCC: This location is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, close to all the major transportation hubs. It offers a variety of workspaces, from private offices to hot desks.

• Spaces - Menara Prestige: Spaces - Menara Prestige is a bright, inspiring coworking space located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur's central business district (CBD). The space is located in a state-of-the-art ‘Grade A’ office building, just a short walk from the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.

  Spaces - Menara Prestige offers a variety of workspace options to suit your needs, including hot desks, fixed desks, and serviced offices. All spaces come with access to high-speed Wi-Fi, printing and scanning, and conference rooms.

  In addition to its spacious and modern workspaces, Spaces - Menara Prestige also offers a variety of amenities to make your work life easier. These include a health center, cafes, shops, a sky garden, and a rooftop open-air restaurant.

6. Arcc Spaces

Arcc Spaces is a coworking space operator in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They offer a variety of workspace options, including private offices, coworking spaces, and meeting rooms. Arcc Spaces is located in three prime locations in Kuala Lumpur: Centrepoint South, The Pavilion Tower, and Gardens North Tower.

Arcc Spaces is known for its hospitality-led approach to workspaces. They offer a range of amenities and services, including:

• High-speed internet

• Coffee and tea

• Printers and scanners

• Meeting rooms

• Business lounge

• Receptionist

• Cleaning services

• Security

7. H Space

Sure. H Space is a coworking space operator in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They offer a variety of workspace options, including private offices, coworking spaces, and meeting rooms. H Space has two locations in Kuala Lumpur: Bangsar South and Damansara Heights.

• Bangsar South: This location is located in the heart of Bangsar South, which is a major commercial and residential hub in Kuala Lumpur. The space is easily accessible via three major highways, and is a short walk away from two MRT stations, with the closest being KL Gateway-Universiti metro, plus bus routes T788 and T789.

• Damansara Heights: This location is located in the heart of Damansara Heights, which is another major commercial and residential hub in Kuala Lumpur. The space is easily accessible via the LDP highway, and is a short walk away from the MRT station.

8. WORQ Coworking

WORQ is a coworking space operator in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They offer a variety of workspace options, including private offices, coworking spaces, and meeting rooms. WORQ has three locations in Kuala Lumpur: KL Gateway, KL Sentral, and Bangsar.

• KL Gateway: This location is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, within walking distance of the KL Gateway Mall and the Bukit Bintang district. The tower is also well-connected to public transportation, with the Raja Chulan Monorail Station just a few minutes away.

• KL Sentral: This location is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, within walking distance of the KL Sentral railway station and the Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) Park. The tower is also well-connected to public transportation, with the KL Sentral LRT Station and the KL Sentral KTM Station just a few minutes away.

• Bangsar: This location is located in the heart of Bangsar, which is a major commercial and residential hub in Kuala Lumpur. The space is easily accessible via the LDP highway, and is a short walk away from the Bangsar MRT station.

9. Co-labs Coworking

Co-labs Coworking is a coworking space operator in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They offer a variety of workspace options, including private offices, coworking spaces, and meeting rooms. Co-labs has three locations in Kuala Lumpur: Naza Tower, The Starling Mall, and Sekitar26 Enterprise.

Co-labs also offers a variety of events and networking opportunities for their members. This includes:

• Monthly networking events

• Weekly workshops

• Guest speakers

• Social events

Notable coworking space centres include Co-labs Coworking Naza Tower, The Starling and Starling Plus.

10. Dojo

Dojo offers a variety of workspace options, including private offices, coworking spaces, and meeting rooms. DOJO has one location in Kuala Lumpur in Bangsar South, in the heart of Bangsar South, which is a major commercial and residential hub in Kuala Lumpur. The space is easily accessible via three major highways, and is a short walk away from two MRT stations, with the closest being KL Gateway-Universiti metro, plus bus routes T788 and T789.

DOJO is known for its minimalist Japanese-inspired interiors, which blend together with their functional spaces to give members a unique experience away from the traditional formalities of an office, whilst still helping you achieve your business goals.

Conclusion - top coworking spaces in KL

Kuala Lumpur is a thriving city with a vibrant business community. As such, there are many coworking spaces to choose from, each with its own unique features and amenities. In this article, we have highlighted 10 of the best coworking spaces in Kuala Lumpur.

Whether you are a solopreneur, a small business owner, or a large corporation, there is sure to be a coworking space in Kuala Lumpur that is perfect for you. These spaces offer a variety of benefits, including access to high-speed internet, meeting rooms, printers and scanners, and a professional environment. They also provide opportunities to network with other professionals and grow your business.

So, if you are looking for a productive and collaborative workspace in Kuala Lumpur, be sure to check out one of the coworking spaces on our list. You won't be disappointed.

Finally, remember those key considerations in your search for a flex space:

• The coworking space industry is growing rapidly in Kuala Lumpur, and there are new spaces opening all the time.

• When choosing a coworking space, it is important to consider your needs and budget.

• Some of the factors to consider include the location, the size of the workspace, the amenities offered, and the price.

• There are many different types of coworking spaces available, so you can find one that fits your specific needs, depending on your industry and business.

• Coworking spaces can be a great way to network with other professionals and grow your business.

Explore Coworking Spaces in Southeast Asia’s Startup Hubs:

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• Coworking Spaces in Manila