From 24 October to 30 October, 11 promising European companies embarked on an intensive EIC Soft-Landing Mission in Singapore. With support from the European Innovation Council (EIC) and Acclime, these companies spent a transformative week exploring one of Asia’s most dynamic and forward-thinking economies. Through a blend of workshops, networking sessions, and site visits, they gained first-hand knowledge of Singapore’s business ecosystem and identified pathways for growth across Southeast Asia.
A warm welcome and strategic connections
The mission commenced with a Welcome Breakfast at the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), where the delegation was introduced to the core of Singapore’s business ecosystem. EDB representatives shared insights into Singapore’s economic goals, including their drive toward net-zero emissions, making it an appealing destination for sustainable, tech-driven companies. Participants learned about EDB’s extensive grants, support structures, and incentives designed to aid foreign businesses expanding into Singapore. This session set the tone for the week, highlighting the collaborative spirit and supportive infrastructure that characterizes Singapore’s approach to innovation. The companies have had a number of pre-set meetings with Singapore based partners discussed with them in the pe-departure bilateral meetings.
The evening ended with a private Welcome Dinner at LeVeL33, a renowned rooftop restaurant with stunning skyline views. Representatives from EIC, Acclime, EDB, EDBI and partner organizations such Enterprise Singapore, Tech Singapore Advocates, and Scalerr were in attendance. The event was an excellent opportunity for participants to build rapport and discuss potential collaborations in a relaxed, yet vibrant atmosphere.
Clean Tech opportunities and historic landmarks
On the second day, the focus shifted to sustainability, with a session on Exploring Clean Tech Growth Opportunities in Southeast Asia. Hosted in collaboration with Tech Singapore Advocates and Singapore Management University (SMU), where experts including ACE SG, Stephenson Harwood, ERM, Circle Capital, River Venture Studio, Wavemaker Impact,and Jennifer Poh, provided insight into the rapidly expanding Clean Tech sector in the region. The discussion emphasized the role of Singapore as a hub for clean energy solutions and sustainable infrastructure, with Singapore’s commitment to supporting green innovation and scaling Clean Tech ventures throughout Southeast Asia.
Highlights from SWITCH 2024 and beyond
In the second part of the mission, the delegation immersed in the Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology (SWITCH) 2024, one of the region’s premier innovation events. SWITCH brought together leaders from Asia’s innovation ecosystem, including startups, investors, accelerators, and corporate innovators, fostering an environment ripe for idea exchange and collaboration. The SWITCH week was packed with high-value networking and pitching events. The GIA X Info Session provided insights into the Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) Programme, an initiative offering valuable schemes for international startups looking to establish a foothold in Singapore which also included a Corporate Reverse Pitching segment.
In the evening, the delegation joined Global Networking Night, an open session designed to connect startups, corporates, investors, and accelerators from across Asia. This networking event allowed European companies to foster connections with Singapore’s innovation leaders, positioning them to leverage regional partnerships.
GIN: Bridging Partnerships with Eureka & EIC Mission offered a unique platform to EIC and five of the participating companies, which included, DAC, Ecopolplast, Plant-E, Nanotech, and Terabee to pitch their solutions. This event was attended by representatives from Eureka, EIC Mission, and various Singaporean businesses, creating an interactive space for pitching, business matchmaking, and meaningful exchanges. With targeted introductions and constructive feedback, the companies began forming essential partnerships to support their entry into Singapore’s market. As Marjolein Helder, CEO of Plant-E:
We felt we really needed to shape the contours of the South-East Asian market, because so much was still unknown to us. The mission did exactly that: draw the contours of the market and so much more! We had a great time bonding with the other EIC beneficiaries, pitching as part of the “GIN: Bridging Partnerships with Eureka & EIC Mission” and had quite a few good 1-on-1 meetings.
The SWITCH Global Tech Mixer, held at the National Gallery Singapore, was a standout networking session, enabling the European participants to connect with a diverse group of innovators and decision-makers in the region.
The final day featured two insightful site visits. The delegation toured JTC LaunchPad, a vibrant startup community designed to support the growth of high-potential tech companies. This visit demonstrated Singapore’s commitment to fostering a supportive ecosystem for innovation, with infrastructure and resources geared toward helping startups thrive. The group also visited Ecolab, where they learned about Singapore’s R&D work in green building and energy efficiency, showcasing Singapore’s commitment to sustainable urban development.
Bernice Tay, Director of Global Innovation Network, Enterprise Singapore shared the interest of having the EIC companies in Sinagpore and supporting them via different activities.
We were pleased to host EIC’s pilot mission trip of deeptech startups in the cleantech sector during the Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology (SWITCH), and introduce them to investors, VCs, and innovation partners through various networking events. It was also our pleasure to host the delegation to a site visit at EcoLabs to share more about more novel technology developed and deployed in Singapore. We hope that the connections formed would further develop into concrete business or innovation partnerships, and look forward to closer collaborations and welcoming future EIC delegations to Singapore!
A Launchpad for Asian expansion
Reflecting on the week, the EIC-backed companies gained invaluable insights into Singapore’s market, regulatory landscape, and business culture. From understanding local incentives to forming connections with influential investors and industry leaders, this mission laid the groundwork for their expansion in Asia. Many participants expressed gratitude for the immersive experience, which not only expanded their market knowledge but also shifted their strategic perspectives for international growth.
Looking Forward: Scaling European Innovation in Asia
As they prepare to integrate the knowledge and connections gained during the mission, these European innovators are well-equipped to navigate Singapore’s thriving ecosystem and beyond. The EIC Soft-Landing Programme, with this successful mission, reaffirms its commitment to supporting Europe’s most promising companies in achieving global reach. With Acclime’s continued support, these companies now have the momentum to leverage their newfound insights as they scale their businesses in Southeast Asia and the broader Asian market.
About the EIC Soft-Landing Programme
Designed to help European companies expand internationally, the EIC Soft-Landing Programme provides tailored mentorship, networking, and guidance to accelerate market entry. Through initiatives like the Singapore mission, EIC equips companies with the insights and resources necessary to thrive on the global stage, fostering a pathway for European innovators to become key players in the international arena.
DISCLAIMER: This information is provided in the interest of knowledge sharing and should not be interpreted as the official view of the European Commission, or any other organisation.