Telstra launches startup accelerator in Singapore; 10 startups to be recruited from region

TELSTRA-BACKED startup accelerator, muru-D, which was launched on Wednesday, will open, in May, applications for 10 technology startups from across South-east Asia to be recruited for the inaugural six-month accelerator programme, which begins in August.

The successful startups will receive S$40,000 in seed capital, space in muru-D Singapore's central business district office, and introductions to world-class mentors, coaches and investors.

Said Annie Parker, co-founder at muru-D: "With its fast-developing startup ecosystem, pro-business policies and access to local capital, Singapore offers entrepreneurs a tremendous launch pad into Southeast Asia, which has a burgeoning population of more than 600 million people and GDP in excess of S$2.4 trillion. muru-D will help accelerate technology innovation throughout Southeast Asia and we look forward to, not only attracting the best digital talent but, critically, creating the right conditions for their long-term success."

muru-D Singapore will be headed by Joseph Ziegler, entrepreneur-in-residence, and Jamie Camidge, head of strategic partnerships and alliances. Mr Ziegler has more than 20 years' experience in building and exiting startups around the globe, while Mr Camidge is an experienced corporate strategy executive at Telstra.

The 10 successful applicants from across South-east Asia will be announced in August, following a pan-Asian roadshow throughout May and June, designed to attract the region's best digital talent.