MYStartup Accelerator Channels RM5.5M into Local Startups

Cradle Fund’s MYStartup Accelerator programme has helped channel nearly RM5.5 million (US$1.3 million) in investments into local startups across five cohorts. 

Powered by Cradle under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), and run in partnership with venture capital firm NEXEA, the programme continues to support early-stage startups with access to funding, mentorship, and resources to scale.

The recently concluded Cohort 5 Demo Day saw eight selected startups pitch their solutions across sectors like artificial intelligence, aquaculture, EV infrastructure, and smart retail. The event attracted significant investor interest, with five startups receiving cash awards from Cradle, and four securing RM800,000 (US$190,000) in commercialisation support from NEXEA.

Standout companies from the cohort included:

• Paix Tech – AI-powered automation for enterprise utility payments
  
• Ocean Rich Resources – Scalable oyster farming technology
  
• Recharge Xolutions – Integrated EV charging and green energy systems
  
• Tagy – AI business assistant for MSMEs
  
• uBITTO – Community-driven language learning powered by AI
  

Since its inception, MYStartup Accelerator has supported more than 50 startups. From 747 applicants in Cohort 5, the final eight were selected through a competitive process focused on scalability, innovation, and commercial viability. The programme not only helps startups become investment-ready but also opens pathways for commercialisation through industry partnerships and mentorship.

Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke, Group CEO of Cradle, said the programme has surfaced key insights into startup challenges and the evolving needs of founders. He emphasized the agency’s plans to expand access to the programme nationwide, ensuring that startups across Malaysia benefit from equal opportunities for growth and support.

NEXEA CEO Ben Lim noted that startups from earlier cohorts have shown strong growth, with 85% of companies from Cohorts 1 and 2 achieving 50% to 100% revenue growth year-on-year. Some have even grown up to 16 times annually, demonstrating the effectiveness of sustained support, mentorship, and funding.

Cradle, known for its strong track record in startup enablement, has funded over 1,100 Malaysian tech startups and maintains the highest commercialisation rate among government grant providers. Together with NEXEA’s network of experienced mentors and corporate partners, the MYStartup Accelerator continues to drive forward Malaysia’s innovation economy—one cohort at a time.