Zhang Fan Global AI Initiative Award
In partnership with Zhang Fan — formerly Co-founder of Sequoia Capital China and a four-time Forbes “Midas List” honoree VC pioneering the advancement of AI—the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC) proudly presents the Zhang Fan Global AI Initiative Award. This S$125,000 prize empowers startups leveraging artificial intelligence to address urgent sustainability challenges.
Zhang Fan Global AI Initiative Award
S$125,000 CASH PRIZE
Who Is It For?
We’re looking for AI-driven startups worldwide with the ambition and capacity to address pressing global challenges. From sustainability and resource efficiency to healthcare and AI infrastructure, we welcome ventures at TRL 5 or higher—particularly Infinity-level teams pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. If your breakthrough can transform entire industries, this is where you scale your impact.
Why It Matters
Artificial Intelligence is reshaping our future, providing unprecedented opportunities for social good, economic growth, and sustainability. The Zhang Fan Global AI Initiative Award offers S$125,000 in funding, along with global visibility, mentorship, and industry connections to drive rapid growth for entrepreneurs advancing AI for the greater good. If your innovation can redefine what's possible, we want you on board.
Join a community of visionary founders and expert advisors committed to using AI as a force for global transformation. By participating in the Zhang Fan Global AI Initiative Award, you gain the resources, networks, and recognition to amplify your solution’s impact. Apply now—and let’s pioneer the next wave of cutting-edge innovation together.
VISIONARY PARTNER
Zhang Fan is a trailblazing venture capitalist and angel investor who has shaped the global technology landscape since the 1990s. As a visionary leader, he has built and backed some of the most transformative companies of our time. He co-founded Sequoia Capital China, where he played a pivotal role as a Managing Partner, fuelling the growth of groundbreaking startups and industry disruptors. Widely respected for his strategic insights and business acumen, he was previously awarded by Forbes among its “Midas List – Top Venture Capitalists in China” for four consecutive years.
Driven by his conviction that Artificial Intelligence will profoundly reshape the world, Zhang Fan is committed to supporting young entrepreneurs—especially those redefining industries with AI. He established the Zhang Fan Global AI Initiative Award to accelerate AI innovation and recognize the most promising early-stage ventures tackling the world’s most urgent challenges.
Sustainable Healthcare Award
presented by Zuellig Pharma
In partnership with Zuellig Pharma, the leading provider of healthcare solutions and pharmaceutical distribution across Asia, the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC) proudly presents the LKYGBPC Sustainable Healthcare Award — a prestigious $125,000 prize designed to accelerate visionary startups transforming healthcare logistics, digital health, and sustainability. We seek Asia-focused, globally relevant ventures at TRL 3 or above,
Sustainable Healthcare Award
presented by Zuellig Pharma
S$125,000 Cash Prize
Who Is It For?
We seek Asia-focused, globally relevant ventures at TRL 3 or above, preferably incorporated, with a compelling MVP or proof-of-concept that has the potential to revolutionize healthcare accessibility, efficiency, and security. If your innovation redefines healthcare delivery, patient engagement, or supply chain resilience, we want to hear from you.
Areas of Interest:
- Logistics & Cold Chain Innovation
- Digital Health & Patient Engagement
- Data Analytics & Real-World Evidence
- Security, Compliance & Traceability
- Sustainable Operations & Packaging
Why It Matters
The LKYGBPC Sustainable Healthcare Award aims to accelerate groundbreaking ventures that will define the future of sustainable healthcare innovation.
If you are ready to drive measurable impact and reimagine the possibilities in sustainable healthcare, we encourage you to apply.
VISIONARY PARTNER
Zuellig Pharma is a leading healthcare services company that provides supply chain management, distribution, and commercialization solutions for the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries in Asia. It partners with pharmaceutical companies to enhance access to medicines, improve patient outcomes, and streamline distribution across the region. With a strong presence in multiple Asian markets, Zuellig Pharma focuses on innovative healthcare solutions and digital technologies to drive efficiency and patient care.
NextGen Investment Prize
presented by Antler
Your Idea. Our Ecosystem. A Better Future
Antler, the global early-stage VC, is proud to present the NextGen Investment Prize—backing the world’s most exceptional founders solving the biggest challenges of tomorrow. We invest from Day 0, providing capital, mentorship, and a global network to help visionary startups scale faster and smarter.
NextGen Investment Prize presented by Antler
S$125,000 - S$600,000
Who Is It For?
We seek bold, resilient entrepreneurs developing scalable, defensible solutions in:
- Emerging & Frontier Tech
- Climate & Sustainability
- Public Health & Biotech
- Urban Mobility & Infrastructure
- Deep Tech & AI
Why It Matters
- Equity investment of up to S$600,000 – Including an initial pre-seed investment of S$125,000
- Access to Antler’s global ecosystem – Connect with top investors, corporate leaders, and advisors across 30+ cities
- Hands-on venture-building support – Gain expert guidance on business model validation, scaling, and global expansion
- Co-founder matching & follow-on funding opportunities – Beyond capital, we help you build and grow your team
Don’t miss this chance to secure up to S$600,000 in funding, gain access to Antler’s global network, and accelerate your startup’s growth with expert venture-building support. Apply today.
INVESTMENT PARTNER
Antler is a global early-stage venture capital firm that invests in founders from "day zero." Founded in 2017 in Singapore by Magnus Grimeland, it has expanded to over 30 locations worldwide. Antler supports entrepreneurs by helping them form teams, validate ideas, and scale businesses with funding and mentorship. With over 1,000 investments and a portfolio exceeding $4.8 billion in value, Antler is committed to democratizing entrepreneurship. It also offers the Antler Academy, providing free resources for aspiring founders. Antler’s mission is to empower exceptional people to build impactful companies globally.
YIT Global Exploration Prize
In partnership with the Yangtze Delta Region Institute of Tsinghua University (YIT)—a world-class hub for technological breakthroughs, industry transformation, and talent development—the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC) proudly presents the YIT Global Exploration Prize.
YIT Global
Exploration Prize
US$100,000
In-Kind Prize
Who Is It For?
This in-kind award - valued at USD 100,000 in total — will be given to four globally oriented ventures and includes incubation support as well as access to cutting-edge research facilities.
Areas of Interest
- Advanced Manufacturing & Industrial Automation
- Artificial Intelligence & Intelligent Systems
- Robotics & Smart Machines
- New Energy
- New Materials
Why It Matters
Designed to equip visionary entrepreneurs with the resources they need to scale their innovations and bring disruptive ideas to market, the YIT Global Exploration Prize seeks startups at TRL 3 or above with a compelling MVP or proof of concept.
Dedicated to fueling transformative advancements that will define the next wave of industrial and technological progress, the YIT Global Exploration Prize invites all who are ready to drive profound change and pioneer the future of cutting-edge innovation to apply.
KNOWLEDGE PARTNER
The Yangtze Delta Region Research Institute of Tsinghua University (“YIT”), was jointly established by the Tsinghua University and Zhejiang Provincial government in 2003. YIT is an innovation hub dedicated to leveraging global technology and attracting worldwide innovators to foster technological innovation, expert cultivation, and high-tech industrialization. YIT has 1 center, 9 offshore incubators, and 15 liaison offices across 4 continents and 12 countries. Annually, we organize over 40 project matchmaking events and startup competitions, linking more than 2,000 startup projects with leading universities, scientific research institutions, professional associations, and financial institutions worldwide.
Indorama Ventures Future of
Sustainable Materials Award
In partnership with a global innovator driving sustainable material solutions and circular value creation, the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC) proudly presents the Indorama Ventures Future of Sustainable Materials Award—a S$125,000 prize designed to propel visionary startups redefining material innovation.
Future of Sustainable
Materials Award
S$125,000 Cash Prize
Who Is It For?
We are looking for Asia-focused ventures leveraging breakthrough technologies at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 or higher, backed by a compelling minimum viable product (MVP) or proof-of-concept, with the potential to disrupt and transform entire industries.
Areas of Interest
- Sustainable Fibers & Polymers
- Bio-Based Feedstocks & Building Blocks
- Advanced Recycling & Circular Solutions
- Green Surfactants & Specialty Chemicals
- Low-Emission Processes & Infrastructure
Why It Matters
If your cutting-edge solution harnesses sustainable chemistry to forge innovative bonds that give materials new life—integrating eco-efficient, circular, and resource-responsible approaches to tackle critical challenges in material sciences—we want to hear from you.
By providing essential resources, global exposure, and expert mentorship, the Indorama Ventures Future of Sustainable Materials Award is committed to accelerating game-changing ventures that will define a cleaner, more sustainable future. If you’re ready to create measurable impact and reimagine the possibilities in materials innovation, we invite you to apply.
VISIONARY PARTNER
Indorama Ventures is a global leader in sustainable chemicals, operating across 117 locations in 31 countries with strong market positions in Asia-Pacific, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. The company's diversified segments—Combined PET and Packaging, Indovinya, and Fibers—serve industries such as food & beverage, automotive, pharmaceuticals, textiles, personal care, and agrochemicals, generating $15.6 billion in revenue in 2023.
Guided by the purpose of "reimagining chemistry for a better world," Indorama Ventures is committed to driving change toward a circular economy. The company is investing in global recycling, decarbonizing operations, and transitioning to circular, bio-based feedstocks.
People's Choice Award (Beta Category)
Innovation is driven not just by experts but by the power of the people. The People’s Choice Award (Beta Category), part of the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC), celebrates the most inspiring early-stage startup—one that captures the imagination of the public with its bold vision, groundbreaking technology, and potential for real-world impact.
People's
Choice Award
(Beta Category)
S$10,000
Who Is It For?
This prize is designed for:
- Early-stage startups and university spin-offs in the Beta category (ideation, prototype, or pre-commercialization stage).
- Innovators working on urban solutions and sustainability, climate tech, carbon tech, energy transitions, water solutions, food security, urban mobility, and sustainable materials etc.
- Startups with compelling solutions that resonate with investors, judges, and the wider audience.
Why It Matters
The best ideas don’t just solve problems—they inspire people. This award gives public recognition and validation to a startup that stands out for its vision, creativity, and potential to transform the world. Winning the People’s Choice Award boosts visibility, credibility, and momentum as teams move from concept to commercialization.
The People’s Choice Award (Beta Category) is more than just a prize—it’s a platform to showcase your groundbreaking innovation to a global audience. Apply now and rally support for your vision to take your startup to the next level!
FOUNDING BENEFACTOR
Wilmar International Limited, established in 1991 and headquartered in Singapore, is a major Asian agribusiness operating across the entire agricultural value chain. The company manages over 500 manufacturing plants and employs more than 100,000 people worldwide, with operations in oil palm cultivation, edible oils refining, biodiesel production, and more. Beyond its core business, Wilmar supports innovation and sustainable development as the founding benefactor of the Lee Kuan Yew Beta Prize. This initiative provides early-stage startups with financial backing, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help tackle global challenges through deep-tech solutions, reflecting Wilmar’s commitment to transformative change and community support.
Read more about Wilmar International Limited
People's Choice Award (Infinity Category)
Game-changing startups don’t just push boundaries—they capture hearts and minds. The People’s Choice Award (Infinity Category), part of the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC), celebrates the most compelling growth-stage startup—one that resonates with the public for its scalability, impact, and potential to redefine industries.
People's
Choice Award
(Infinity Category)
S$10,000
Who Is It For?
This prize is designed for:
- Startups in the Infinity category that have moved beyond the prototype stage and are scaling towards commercialization and market expansion.
- Innovators in urban solutions and sustainability, climate tech, carbon tech, energy transitions, water solutions, food security, urban mobility, and sustainable materials etc. making a tangible difference in the world.
- Entrepreneurs who inspire investors, industry leaders, and the public with their vision, execution, and potential for global impact.
Why It Matters
Scaling a startup requires more than innovation—it needs market validation and public support. The People’s Choice Award (Infinity Category) spotlights a team that has proven traction, strong storytelling, and the ability to engage stakeholders. Winning this award provides visibility, credibility, and momentum to accelerate growth and global expansion.
The People’s Choice Award (Infinity Category) is more than just a recognition—it’s a launchpad for global impact. Apply now, rally your supporters, and showcase why your startup is ready to go from 1 to Infinity!
People's Choice Award (Beta Category)
Innovation is driven not just by experts but by the power of the people. The People’s Choice Award (Beta Category), part of the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC), celebrates the most inspiring early-stage startup—one that captures the imagination of the public with its bold vision, groundbreaking technology, and potential for real-world impact.
People's
Choice Award
(Beta Category)
S$10,000
Who Is It For?
This prize is designed for:
- Early-stage startups and university spin-offs in the Beta category (ideation, prototype, or pre-commercialization stage).
- Innovators working on urban solutions and sustainability, climate tech, carbon tech, energy transitions, water solutions, food security, urban mobility, and sustainable materials etc.
- Startups with compelling solutions that resonate with investors, judges, and the wider audience.
Why It Matters
The best ideas don’t just solve problems—they inspire people. This award gives public recognition and validation to a startup that stands out for its vision, creativity, and potential to transform the world. Winning the People’s Choice Award boosts visibility, credibility, and momentum as teams move from concept to commercialization.
The People’s Choice Award (Beta Category) is more than just a prize—it’s a platform to showcase your groundbreaking innovation to a global audience. Apply now and rally support for your vision to take your startup to the next level!
Get Involved
Join us for the next edition of the world’s most exciting university startup challenge! Register your interest to get involved!
As a STARTUP
Join our global community of innovators and win prizes!
Be a MENTOR
Share your wisdom to make a difference.
As a JUDGE
Your expertise matters in shaping the future.
Be a SPONSOR
Invest in the potential of tomorrow.
Be a PARTNER
Grow this competition with us for the next generation.
NOMINATE a Startup
Help us find the next big unicorn!
