Draper University Opens Its First International Campus In Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, March 21 (Bernama) -- Draper University, the world’s leading pre-accelerator founded by renowned venture capitalist Tim Draper will be expanding its footprint internationally, establishing its first campus outside of Silicon Valley in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

In partnership with the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), an agency under the purview of the Ministry of Digital established to lead Malaysia’s digital economy, Draper University will support and spearhead the growth of 140 startups in Malaysia over the next two years with a focus on companies that operate in the Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, Blockchain, Web3, and Advanced 5G space.

“This strategic collaboration between MDEC and Draper University will drive investment in Malaysian startups like never before, by developing the digital ecosystem and providing mutually beneficial market access for emerging Malaysian companies to propel the country’s tech sector to even greater heights,” Draper University chief executive officer Asra Nadeem said in a statement today.

Meanwhile, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo was quoted in the same statement as saying that Draper University’s decision to establish its first campus outside of Silicon Valley in Kuala Lumpur will accelerate innovation and value creation in Malaysia’s startup ecosystem.

“This underscores Malaysia’s commitment to develop a global mindset in this sector and position us as the preferred digital hub of ASEAN. Malaysia is currently looking to build that competitive edge capable of empowering startups, including supporting initiatives which innovate and simplify business processes,” he said.

Draper University has accelerated over 750 companies to date, with over US$1.05 billion raised from top global investors and produced several unicorns including ‘1047 Games’ (video game developer) and ‘Highstreet’ (a commerce-centred metaverse that integrates shopping with gaming).

Draper University is part of the Draper Venture Network, an alliance of independent venture capital firms including Draper Associates, Boost VC, Draper Dragon, and Draper StartupHouse, a global chain of affordable hotels for entrepreneurs.

-- BERNAMA