Kuala Lumpur, 3 July 2025 — As Malaysia strengthens its position as a global innovation hub, startups remain key drivers of economic growth, job creation, and digital transformation. In support of this momentum, 1337 Ventures, Malaysia’s pioneering early-stage venture capital firm, is pleased to announce the launch of the 64th cohort of its flagship Alpha Startups™ Pre-Accelerator, with applications now open for the July 2025 intake.
Launched in 2014, the is Malaysia’s longest-running startup accelerator programme, tailored for early-stage founders — from those with an idea to teams building their first MVP. Over the past decade, the programme has supported the growth of more than 3,500+ startups, including success stories such as Vircle, Swipey, BloomThis, ParkEasy (acquired by Shell), EatCakeToday (which exited within a year of completing the programme), MaidEasy, Arus Oil, Cult Creative, Qarbotech, Finory.tech, Dear Kyra and more.
The 10-week hybrid accelerator combines structured learning with founder flexibility—starting with an in-person onboarding, followed by weekly virtual mentoring, self-paced modules, and culminating in a live Demo Day with investors and ecosystem leaders.
Only 20 startups will be selected for this intake, receiving personalised mentorship and regional exposure. While open to all tech-enabled solutions, this cohort will spotlight innovation in AI, DeepTech, SME B2B, HealthTech, FinTech, and Climate Tech.
“Early-stage founders need structure, speed, and honest feedback—that’s what Alpha Startups™ pre-accelerator delivers,” said Bikesh Lakhmichand, CEO and Founding Partner of 1337 Ventures. “After running thematic cohorts in FemTech, Tourism, InsurTech, and FinTech, we’re excited to return to a fully agnostic batch. This isn’t just about accelerating founders—it’s also a pulse check on early-stage deal flow across Malaysia and Southeast Asia, and where the next wave of innovation is coming from.”
Throughout the programme, selected startups will benefit from hands-on mentorship by seasoned venture builders, customer validation sprints, and go-to-market strategy development. They will also gain access to the 1337 Ventures Startup Playbook, over RM100,000 in digital credits and partner tools, and lifetime entry into 1337 Ventures’ growing alumni network of founders, mentors, and investors across Southeast Asia. The programme culminates in a high-impact Demo Day, where the top teams pitch to a curated panel of angel investors, VCs, and corporate innovation leaders.
Whether you’re in the idea stage or building momentum with your MVP, Alpha Startups™ offers a proven pathway to validate, grow, and raise funds with confidence.
🚀 Applications are now open and will close on 20 July 2025. The programme officially begins on 31 July 2025. To apply, visit https://1337.ventures/alpha-startups-pre-accelerator.
Shannon Chow, the Head of Marketing at 1337 Ventures. With 10-years of experience in marketing and advertising, Shannon is a specialist in integrated marketing, no-code/low-code tools, UI/UX, and branding. She mentors entrepreneurs in pitching & marketing. She’s passionate about self-development and women’s empowerment, Shannon strives to simplify the knowledge of starting a startup and ignite the spirit of entrepreneurship among youths.
