The Role of Entrepreneurial Networks: Insights from the Singapore Tech Entrepreneurs Network Map Project

- A joint research project of NUS Enterprise and Endeavor Insight, sponsorsed by J.P. Morgan -

The technology startup ecosystem of Singapore has evolved quite rapidly over the last twenty years. As showcased in the ongoing TechSG (techsg.io) initiative, the growth of Singapore's tech startup ecosystem is sustained by the development of rich linkages between different actors in the ecosystem, including startups, venture investors, incubators and other facilitators such as government agencies, industry associations and other professional intermediaries .

The Singapore Tech Entrepreneurs’ Network Map is a research project that builds upon the TechSG information platform by examining the social networks of entrepreneurs. This joint project by Endeavor Insight and NUS Enterprise maps the complex, interwoven networks of connections that continue to grow between Singapore’s many innovative entrepreneurs.

Over three hundred entrepreneurs were interviewed for the project in order to spotlight top influencers, identify connections between the entrepreneurs and other actors in the ecosystem, and learn why entrepreneurs choose Singapore as the home-base of their ventures.

At this event, some of the key findings from the study will be presented, highlighting:

• Overview of the Social Networks of Singapore’s startup entrepreneurs
• Case studies of the network effects of selected high-impact entrepreneurs
• Comparisons of the pattern of entrepreneurial networks in Singapore with those of London and New York
• Role of universities in facilitating Singapore startups
• The role of JTC LaunchPad in the development of Singapore’s tech startup ecosystem
• Internationalization and scaling up of Singapore-based tech entrepreneurs

Programme Schedule:

1.30pm - Registration

2.00pm - Welcome Remarks

2.10pm - Presentation of Tech Entrepreneurs' Network Map

Speakers: Prof Wong Poh Kam (Director, NUS Entrepreneurship Centre at NUS Enterprise) and Ms Lili Torok (Associate, Endeavor Insight)

3.10pm - Q&A Session

3.30pm - Panel Discussion: Deepening Network Connections in Singapore’s Tech StartUp Ecosystem

Panelists: Ms Torok, Prof Wong, selected Tech Entrepreneurs & Senior Government Official (tbc); Moderator: Ms Beth Robertson, Endeavor Global

4.30pm - Networking and Light Refreshments

6.00pm - End of event