NexTech is TM Forum's startup program that connects emerging startups with CSPs and technology suppliers, to strengthen the ecosystem and inspire the next wave of innovation and growth.
NexTech ignites meaningful conversations and partnerships that enable the startups to scale and the corporations to enhance their innovation cycles.
APPLY NOW! Interested startups are invited to join our upcoming Innovate Asia 2024 cycle.
Why join NexTech?
Gain the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in and shape the telecommunications industry through a dedicated program. Enjoy valuable mentoring from industry experts, showcase your innovations on a global stage, and compete in an exclusive pitching competition at Innovate Asia 2024.
- One-year TM Forum Membership
- Complimentary participation in a TM Forum Catalyst project
- VIP pass for DTW25 – Ignite
- Startup Booth at DTW25 – Ignite
- Onsite Pitch at DTW25 – Ignite
- Featured in post-event wrap-up video, article and press release
- Onsite video demo and interview on TM Forum's Inform
Can you solve the Innovate Asia 2024 NextTech challenges?
Connectivity providers are facing the challenge of generating and seizing value by applying cutting-edge technologies.
For Innovate Asia 2024, we are looking for startups pioneering exponential technologies such as Generative AI, Decentralized Technologies, Spatial Computing, or Quantum, leading the way to unlock benefits for the industry.
How can the telecommunications sector use innovative solutions that shape the industry and propel every TelCo into a true TechCo?
For Innovate Asia 2024, we are on the lookout for startups unlocking new growth opportunities for the industry and pushing the boundaries of telco companies to impact enterprises, governments and society.
Program timeline
3 June 2024: Applications for Innovate Asia 2024 open
20 September 2024: Applications for Innovate Asia 2024 close
30 September 2024: Participants selected and notified
5 October 2024: Online info session for participants (introduction & logistics)
5 October 2024: NexTech experts announced
12 October 2024: Mentoring sessions commence
19 October 2024: Online info session for participants (Catalysts information)
Eligibility criteria
Startups that meet the following criteria:
- Founded 2019 onwards
- Have a dedicated and visionary team
- Have a prototype, product or solution already developed and, if possible, in action
- Have existing customers or users, indicating market interest and validation
- Have the ability to present the prototype or product
- Have a product aligned with the challenges set for Innovate Asia 2024
Past winners include
ConnectedYou
Locatium
Meet your mentors and judges
Tim Banham
Chief Commercial Officer & EVP, Membership
TM Forum
Hugues Bardin
Director of Next20
TM Forum
Alex Bruce
Catalyst Success Manager
TM Forum
Jeanette Carlsson
Luis Rodríguez-Ovejero Gómez
Irfan Goandal
Priya Kurien
Matt Kurleto
Michael Lawrey
Olga Martynov
Amer Ramzan
Nicolai Schaettgen
Bronwynne Stoddart
Lars Vestergaard
Tom Winstanley