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:
Capital Market Partners
TRIREC is a global investor focused on decarbonization, backing early-stage technologies across energy, mobility, buildings, industries, and food.
Southeast Asia's leading VC firm investing in and building solutions in enterprise, deep tech, and sustainability.
Operating Partners
Global technology, defence and engineering group with a diverse portfolio of businesses across the aerospace, smart city, defence and public security segments.
The technology services and open innovation platform of Kajima, one of Japan's oldest and largest construction and real estate companies.
Regulatory Partners
Building and Construction Authority
As sector lead for Singapore's Built Environment sector, BCA champions a safe, sustainable, liveable built environment and fosters a dynamic industry.
Driving Singapore's energy transition by catalysing innovations and establishing thought leadership.
Scientific Partner
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:
Introduction to stakeholders for potential pilots, licensing, etc.
1-1 Mentorship:
Dedicated lead mentor assigned from one of our partners
Networking Opportunities:
Mixers, socials, and a signature annual event
Why Singapore
Singapore is one of the world’s most dynamic startup ecosystems. 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.
