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Anchoring Global Innovation in 
Urban Solutions & Sustainability 


Urban SustaInnovator is Singapore’s first global accelerator dedicated to scaling breakthrough solutions for Urban Solutions and Sustainability  challenges.

Launched by Singapore Management University’s Institute of Innovation & Entrepreneurship it unites leading public, private, and philanthropic partners to turn bold ideas into real-world impact.

We exist to bridge global startup talent with Singapore’s innovation ecosystem, accelerating the growth of high-potential ventures in Urban Sustainability. By providing access to deep expertise, capital, industry partners, and mentorship, we help founders transform their visionary ideas into scalable, impactful solutions.

Our Partners

We are powered by a consortium of Singapore’s leading institutions, combining strengths across science, technology, capital markets, and industry. Key partners include 


Our Commitment To You


Programme - What You Can Expect

The Urban SustaInnovator is a 12-month hybrid accelerator
designed with founders in mind. Our programme includes:

Fundraising: Access to VCs and CVCs covering pre-seed to late-stage funding 

Industry Access: Intros to clients for potential pilots, POCs, licensing, etc

Dedicated 1:1 mentorship from a lead mentor from our partners

Networking Opportunities such as mixers, socials, and a signature annual event 

Mentors - An Elite Network

The Urban SustaInnovator is a 12-month hybrid accelerator
designed with founders in mind. Our programme includes:

Why Singapore

Singapore is one of the world’s most dynamic startup ecosystems—climbing from 16th place in 2020 to now being ranked 4th globally in the 2025 Global Startup Ecosystem Index. As Asia’s Deep-Tech Gateway, Singapore offers not only access to talent, capital, and markets, but also a pro-business environment with supportive regulations, low taxes, and an ideal landscape for test-bedding new innovations.

SMU IIE Urban SustaInnovator aims to anchor world-class startups in Singapore, accelerate deep-tech talent development, create high-value jobs, and reinforce the nation’s position as a global hub for sustainable innovation.

Our Partners

We are powered by a consortium of Singapore’s leading institutions, combining strengths across science, technology, capital markets, and industry. Key partners include: 

Rony J. Palathinkal is the Head of the Urban SustaInnovator, SMU’s new  accelerator dedicated to advancing innovation in urban sustainability.

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