Sidec Launches Selangor Twin Accelerator Programme To Boost Local Start-ups, SMEs
SHAH ALAM, July 9 (Bernama) -- The Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) has launched the the 2025 edition of the Selangor Twin Accelerator Programme, a dual-track initiative aimed at scaling Malaysia’s most promising startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across deep tech and consumer-focused industries.
Sidec chief executive officer Yong Kai Ping said the programme, comprising the Selangor Deep Tech Xccelerator Programme (Deep-X) and the Selangor Retail Tech Xccelerator Programme (Retail-X), was designed to help high-potential ventures future-proof their growth and expand across global markets.
“With Deep-X and Retail-X, we are not only accelerating companies but building a fully integrated ecosystem that supports founders at every stage. This programme is designed to produce global-ready entrepreneurs with the right tools, networks, and mindset,” he said in a statement today.
According to the statement, the Selangor Twin Accelerator is supported by a robust network of capital providers, technology enablers, and academic institutions to guide participants from ideation to market expansion.
Sidec said venture capital (VC) partners include Artem Ventures, Gobi Partners, Gen AI Fund, 500 Global, Venture Rock, Ignite, Permodalan Negeri Selangor Bhd (PNSB) and First Move Fund.
Equity crowdfunding (ECF) platforms involved in the programme are pitchIN, Ata Plus and MyStartr, while confirmed technology partners providing digital infrastructure are cloud credits, with platform support will be provided by Google Cloud, Alibaba Cloud and BytePlus.
“In addition, the programme works closely with universities and academic institutions to provide participants with access to research expertise, technical validation and talent development.
“Sidec’s wider network of ecosystem partners further supports market linkages, strategic collaborations, investor access and opportunities for regional and international networking,” the agency said.
The launch of the programme on July 3 coincided with Sidec’s 10th anniversary. Since its inception, Sidec has supported over 320 startups, facilitated RM203 million in collective fundraising and provided regional exposure to founders through its international missions.
“Looking ahead, the Twin Accelerator is a cornerstone of Sidec’s roadmap to nurture 500 startups by 2030, in line with Selangor and Malaysia’s broader digital economy transformation agenda,” Sidec said.
Deep-X targets artificial intelligence-driven deep tech startups across verticals such as agritech, biotech, healthtech, robotics, semiconductors, sustainability, and net-zero innovation, offering mentorship, market access, investor engagement, and over RM300,000 in programme value during the 12-week programme.
Top-performing Deep-X startups will also be selected for an international innovation mission to Plug & Play in Silicon Valley, United States, where they will pitch to global investors, connect with leading accelerators and explore commercial partnerships.
Applications for Deep-X are open until July 20, 2025. Startups will also pitch and exhibit at the Selangor Smart City & Digital Economy Convention (SDEC) 2025.
Meanwhile, Retail-X supports high-potential business-to-consumer SMEs in fashion, lifestyle, food and beverage, home living, health, beauty, and wellness. The programme focuses on AI-powered marketing, smart inventory systems, and omnichannel growth strategies.
Retail-X will culminate in a Final Demo Day, with top SMEs pitching to investors. Winners stand to receive RM50,000 in cash and perks, brand exposure, and a fully sponsored Sidec World Stage Venture trip to ByteDance, where they will gain behind-the-scenes access to TikTok Shop’s commerce innovation.
Applications for Retail-X close on July 13, 2025.
-- BERNAMA
