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

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

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.