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.
Check out the most recent NexTech Startups for the Innovate Asia 24 cycle below.
Meet the Innovate Asia 24 NexTech Startups
Innovate Asia 24 NextTech Startups challenges
Connectivity providers are facing the challenge of generating and seizing value by applying cutting-edge technologies.
For Innovate Asia 24, 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 telecommunications providers drive both innovation and operational efficiency to scale as true technology companies?
For Innovate Asia 24, we are looking for startups developing solutions that not only unlock new revenue opportunities but also optimize processes, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. The goal is to help telcos evolve into agile, tech-enabled enterprises that can deliver value across industries, governments, and society.
Innovate Asia 24 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
11 October 2024: Online info session for participants (introduction & logistics)
17 October 2024: NexTech experts announced
20 October 2024: Mentoring sessions commence
28 October 2024: Online info session for participants (Innovation Engine information)
Innovate Asia 24 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
NexTech Startups winners
ConnectedYou
Locatium
Meet our 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
Cameron Peron
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 TM Forum events.
- 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