Singtel announced the launch of the 2018 Innov8 Connect program as part of its strategy to support local and global start-ups that focus on innovative solutions on Internet-of-Things (IoT) technologies.
Singtel will invite shortlisted start-ups to pitch their business case to a panel of Singtel Group management executives. Singtel will offer up to S$75,000 to selected start-ups to test and develop their IoT solutions with the Group.

Singtel said it will select six start-ups to provide a solution for each of the six business areas. Singtel will help technology start-ups for the commercialisation opportunities across the Group.

The Innov8 Connect programme is open for submissions from now until 5 August 2018. Interested start-ups are invited to submit their proposals for the six new IoT business areas identified by Singtel.

The Singapore-based global telecom operator said this year’s Innov8 Connect programme will focus on smart IoT solutions in areas of public infrastructure, transportation, utilities, security, connected homes and personal wellness.

Singtel has been trialling applications in environmental sensing, asset tracking and waste management to develop solutions for IoT, a critical lever that enterprises can use to digitally transform their businesses.

“Through a structured programme like Innov8 Connect, we can specify Singtel’s ‘wish-list’ of IoT solutions and help connect with local and global start-ups,” Edgar Hardless, chief executive officer of Singtel Innov8, said.

Since its launch in 2016, Innov8 Connect has helped start-ups validate their solutions with the Singtel Group. Among the programme’s notable start-ups are Moogsoft, a provider of artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for IT operations; and Xjera Labs, an AI-based image and video analytics company.