Nanyang Technological University

Overview

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is a prominent research institution in Singapore that actively invests in deep-tech startups and spin-offs. Through its dedicated investment arm, NTU Ventures, the university provides funding and support to early-stage companies, particularly those emerging from its own research initiatives. This strategic focus aims to commercialize innovations developed within the university and foster the growth of technology-driven enterprises. NTU Ventures primarily concentrates on sectors such as technology, healthcare, environmental services, education, energy, financial services, media, consumer goods, transportation, real estate, telecommunications, agriculture, manufacturing, retail, and hospitality. The investment stages range from seed to growth phases, with individual investments typically ranging from S$500,000 to S$5 million. This approach ensures that NTU Ventures can effectively support startups at various stages of their development, from initial concept to scaling operations. The university's investment philosophy emphasizes the commercialization of research and the acceleration of deep-tech ventures. By leveraging its extensive research capabilities and industry partnerships, NTU Ventures aims to create a sustainable ecosystem that nurtures innovation and drives economic growth. This commitment is exemplified by initiatives such as the Nanyang Frontier Fund, a S$50 million venture capital fund launched in collaboration with Walden International, and the UOB Innovation Hub, which plans to incubate over 90 venture teams over the next five years. These efforts underscore NTU's dedication to translating academic research into impactful real-world applications. NTU's investment activities are managed by its Investment Office, which oversees the university's endowment fund. The office's mandate is to preserve and enhance the endowment's value while providing a stable stream of earnings to support NTU's activities. This includes investments in various asset classes, with a particular emphasis on venture capital and private equity, aligning with the university's strategic priorities and commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship. Through these initiatives, NTU demonstrates a proactive approach to fostering innovation and supporting the commercialization of research, contributing to the growth of Singapore's deep-tech ecosystem and reinforcing its position as a leading global research university.

Investment Focus

• Deep-tech focus
• Alignment with NTU's research areas
• Scalable business model
• Strong management team
• Potential for significant impact

Portfolio Companies