Singapore is known for its vibrant start-up ecosystem with over 9,000 start-ups, the highest number in Southeast Asia, and the top destination in the region for start-up investment.
According to StartupBlink’s Startup Ecosystem Index 2022, Singapore is the top-ranked ecosystem for start-ups in the Asia-Pacific region and ranked 7th globally.
Strategically located, Singapore serves as the regional launchpad for expansion into the Asian market. With a strong talent base and business-friendly environment, Singapore is undoubtedly an attractive hub for start-ups.
To date, there are 12 start-ups that have attained unicorn status in Singapore which include NOC alumni start-ups – Carousell and Patsnap. Other notable start-ups from NOC alumni that are making their mark include Augmentus (artificial intelligence), Blood (female technology) and Fossa Chocolate (food and beverage).
The future is bright for Singapore’s start-up scene with continued government funding for digital transformation. Also, increased digitalisation and technological advancements are accelerating growth in emerging sectors such as financial technology (fintech) and health technology (healthtech).
With climate change threatening our environment and disrupting food supply, Singapore aims to produce 30% of its nutritional needs locally by 2030. Start-ups that leverage on developments in agriculture technology (agritech) and clean technology (cleantech) will play a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable future.
What are you waiting for? Get Plugged into Singapore’s Start-up Ecosystem! Applications are now open for January 2023 intake.
Student Testimonials
Ashley Mun Yit Jit
NOC Singapore Alumnus (Jul 2023), College of Design and Engineering
The reason I chose to sign-up specifically for the NOC Singapore programme was for me to understand the Singapore start-up scene, and learn from various mentors throughout the programme about how to scale a business, and essentially how a real and successful start-up operates. As my business is based in Singapore, I wanted to leverage on my connections built from NOC Singapore, which can benefit me greatly in my small business, or future start-up projects. Read More!
Loo Wee Sing Caspian Michael
NOC Singapore Alumnus (Jul 2023), School of Computing
It's not just the successes but the setbacks that shape a robust entrepreneurial journey. This realization has shifted my perspective from seeking immediate results to embracing a long-term view of building sustainable value. The NOC Singapore programme has been a transformative experience, equipping me with the skills and mindset to navigate the complexities of the startup ecosystem with confidence. Read More!
Pawitporn Jianpasert
NOC Singapore Alumna, School of Business
I wanted to learn more about entrepreneurship and witness first-hand how it’s like building businesses up from scratch. It taught me to be positive and to never stop learning. No start-up can grow if the team refuse to learn, learn to adapt and learn from their own and other people’s mistakes. Things might get tough sometimes but it’s going to be worth it!
Kyle Tan
NOC Singapore Alumnus, School of Business
I was blown away by how the team had entrusted me with the company's resources and responsibilities. NOC multiplies these functions for every one of its students by placing them in some of the world's most successful startups. And when you're on the job, do new things that are beyond your comfort zone; do things that give you that jolt of adrenaline that your corporate friends don't get to feel.