To create a pro-consumer and pro-business infocomm environment, IDA formulates infocomm-related policies, standards, codes of practice and advisory guidelines aimed at leveling the playing field for infocomm service providers and empowering consumers and businesses with more choices.

IDA plays an active role in developing Singapore’s pool of globally-competitive infocomm talent and an infocomm-savvy workforce. We are also focused on driving consumer education initiatives, ensuring digital inclusion and supporting the effective use of infocomm in community outreach efforts.

Overview

IDA drives the growth, competitiveness and innovation of Singapore’s infocomm industry by nurturing local infocomm enterprises and supporting them in their internationalisation efforts. We also seek to inject greater vibrancy into the infocomm ecosystem by attracting world-class global infocomm MNCs and startups to hub in Singapore.

iSTART@Thailand

As part of our series of market access support, IDA is organising the iSTART@Thailand Programme to help Singapore-based start-ups expand their business into Thailand. IDA will be engaging consultants, incubators, and accelerators that have strong networks and proven track records in Thailand, 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.

The first delegation trip is scheduled for 18 November 2013 and a follow-up trip to be made in January 2014.

IDA is seeking infocomm companies that are keen on Thailand 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 Thailand, in the following phases:

Phase 1

Companies will be matched to in-market mentors, who will provide one-to-one consultation sessions to develop go-to-market strategy for Thailand 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 pitching sessions and networking events.

Phase 2 (1 month later)

Companies would return to Thailand for further market engagement, after spending about 1 month in Singapore to refine their product, business model, and pitch.
Companies will attend follow-up meetings with potential customers, resellers, partners, and investors.
Companies will possibly attend other networking events.

Cost:

IDA 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 and conferences, 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 Thai consultant / accelerator / incubator which will choose companies that they can best help.

Application is now closed and successful applicants will be informed via email on 1 November 2013. Thank you.

Note : This programme has ended. Do look out for news on the next run of the programme.