Mediacorp, a state-owned media conglomerate in Singapore, has announced the launch of The Big Spark, a new initiative designed to bridge the gap between emerging entrepreneurs and investors in Southeast Asia.

The project, developed in partnership with Elevandi and TiE Global Summit, features a business reality series that will spotlight 24 early-stage startups from across the region, focusing on those that have not yet secured Series A funding.

The Big Spark, co-created with Jonathan Glazier, known for his work on Asia’s Got Talent, is an eight-part series scheduled to air on Channel News Asia (CNA) platforms from February 2024.

It aims to showcase founders and entrepreneurs from various sectors, including fintech, ESG, educational technology, AI, SaaS, and health and wellness, all hailing from Southeast Asia.

These startups have been shortlisted through a rigorous process following an October call for applications, will participate in challenges and masterclasses, pitching their business ideas to prominent venture capitalists for a chance to secure over S$1 million in seed funding.

Judges Roshni Mahtani Cheung and Lim Wai Mun, along with a roster of guest judges, will mentor these entrepreneurs throughout the series.

The programme is part of Mediacorp’s broader goal to establish Singapore as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, offering a platform for start-ups to connect and grow.

In statements, Parminder Singh of Mediacorp and Amit Gupta of TiE Singapore emphasised the initiative’s role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the region, particularly in light of recent global challenges.

The Big Spark is supported by a range of partners, including Smart Nation Singapore, UOB, and Mastercard, Ant Group, Google Cloud, Ohmyhome, M1, Zoom, Motion Content Group, Hatch, Ecosystm, Sofitel, and Constellar

More information about the initiative and its participants can be found on the CNA website.

Jonathan Glazier, Executive Producer & Director of The Big Spark, said,

“The Big Spark is very much in the new breed of reality show. Rather than being about conflict and drama, it’s about supportive communities; a series for good, if you will. To create a new show in one of the most creative parts of the world, full of innovation and ideas, has been a joy.

Unlike other business reality shows, we aim to reflect the reality of the entrepreneurial journey, to support and to inspire. Anyone with an idea or a dream of starting their own business should get some really interesting tips from leaders in the business world by following The Big Spark.”

Rebecca Martin, Head of Strategy, Elevandi said,

“Through comprehensive educational programmes and the dynamic Founders Peak stage, Elevandi is committed to empowering entrepreneurs with the essential tools for success.

The Big Spark will intimately chronicle the founder’s journey, showcasing their resilience in navigating challenges—whether it be scaling regionally, fundraising, or managing their own mental health.”

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• Source: https://fintechnews.sg/80642/singapore-fintech-festival-2023/24-startups-to-vie-for-s1m-funding-on-new-reality-show-the-big-spark/