As part of our series of market access support, IDA is organising the iSTART@SV Programme to help Singapore-based start-ups expand their business into the U.S. market, via Silicon Valley. IDA will be engaging consultants, incubators, and accelerators that have strong networks in Silicon Valley and a proven track record, to put together this customised programme for our start-ups. They would be tasked to help participating companies understand market dynamics, and connect with key individuals with the intent of securing customers, resellers, partners, and investors - through a variety of targeted meetings, events and workshops organised for the delegation.

IDA is seeking infocomm companies that are keen on U.S. market expansion to join us for the programme. Your company should have a working product, and have the necessary resources (finance & manpower) for international expansion. Participating companies will need to commit to making two trips to the U.S., in the following phases:

Phase 1

• Companies will be matched and assigned to in-market mentors and consultants that will aid in crafting an appropriate go-to-market strategy for the U.S. and arrange meetings with potential customers, investors and partners.
• Companies will undergo workshops to be equipped on the basics of market entry, legal, finance & tax, fine-tuning of biz model for the market, market dynamics of various IT verticals etc.
• Companies will attend conferences or networking events.

Phase 2 (Approx 2 months later)

• Companies would return back to the U.S. for further customer engagement, after spending about 2 months in Singapore to refine their product, business model, and pitch.
• Follow-up meetings with potential customers, resellers, partners, and investors.
• Possibly attend other networking events.

Cost:

• DA will cover the fees charged by the accelerator / mentors / consultants for organising such a programme
• Companies need to cover their own return airfare, accommodation, cost of living, and additional entry fees for optional events, etc.

Eligibility and Screening:

• Open to companies incorporated & physically present in Singapore
• Company's group annual sales turnover has to be not more than $100 million or group employment size is not more than 200 workers
• Companies should have a working product, and have the necessary resources (finance and manpower) for international expansion
• Screening will also be conducted by the U.S. consultant / accelerator / incubator which will choose companies that they can best help.

To receive latest updates and reminders on the briefing and application deadlines for the iSTART@SV programme, do express your interest by filling up this form .

If you are a consultant / incubator / accelerator, and would like to facilitate this programme, please email us at: [email protected] .

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