The Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC), one of Asia’s most prestigious business plan competitions, has officially opened applications for its 12th edition. Organized by Singapore Management University’s (SMU) Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (IIE), the competition continues to attract top deep-tech startups and university entrepreneurs from around the world.
With a strong focus on Urban Solutions and Sustainability, LKYGBPC aims to uncover groundbreaking innovations that address the future challenges of urbanization. This year, 50 finalist teams (RVLT50) will be awarded a fully sponsored trip to Singapore to participate in BLAZE, a week-long innovation festival culminating in the LKYGBPC Grand Finale.
A Premier Global Business Plan Competition
Since its inception in 2002, LKYGBPC has grown into one of the most globally representative business plan competitions, attracting over 1,000 entries from 1,100 universities across 77 countries in its 11th edition (2023). Past competition alumni have collectively raised over US$1 billion in the last five years, underscoring its impact in nurturing high-potential startups.
“As SMU consistently strives to translate research and entrepreneurial endeavors into real-world solutions that benefit society, we are confident that LKYGBPC’s global reach and impact will enable us to drive concrete, positive change for a better tomorrow,” said Prof Lim Sun Sun, Vice President of Partnerships and Engagement at SMU.
Key Highlights of the 12th LKYGBPC
- Exclusive Investor Access: Finalists will gain exclusive access to leading venture capitalists at Southeast Asia’s biggest Venture Capital Office Hours, offering unparalleled opportunities to secure funding and strategic partnerships.
- Business Family Connections: Participants will engage with Southeast Asia’s influential business families, fostering cross-border collaborations and potential market expansion.
- Scientific Knowledge Partner: The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) joins LKYGBPC for the first time, bringing cutting-edge research expertise to support deep-tech innovations.
“ASTAR has developed deep technological capabilities critical for a sustainable future, driving Singapore’s sustainability goals through innovation. We are excited to support and nurture young founders in creating transformative solutions that address global urbanization and sustainability challenges while fostering the growth of a thriving deep-tech startup ecosystem,”* said Ms. Irene Cheong, Assistant Chief Executive (Innovation & Enterprise) at A*STAR.
Why Entrepreneurs Should Join This Business Plan Competition
The LKYGBPC 2025 presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for startups to:
- Showcase their business plan to a global audience of investors, mentors, and industry leaders.
- Gain international exposure through one of Asia’s largest business plan competitions.
- Secure strategic partnerships and funding to scale their startup globally.
- Access a powerful network of successful entrepreneurs and corporate leaders.
“The 2025 LKYGBPC unfolds amidst a unique confluence of milestones: Singapore’s 60th anniversary, SMU’s 25th anniversary, and the Singapore Grand Prix 2025. This dynamic backdrop, combined with other major youth-focused festivals taking place simultaneously, creates an extraordinary platform for startup founders to connect with global business leaders and emerging talents in and outside of the competition,” said Ms. Shirley Wong, Entrepreneur-in-Residence at SMU IIE and Chairperson of the 12th LKYGBPC Advisory Committee.
A Global Stage for Tomorrow’s Entrepreneurs
With a mission to shape the future of cities through entrepreneurial innovation, the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition continues to be a launchpad for the world’s brightest minds. By fostering global collaborations and breakthrough innovations, the competition empowers young founders to make a lasting impact on urban sustainability.
Startups, university teams, and deep-tech entrepreneurs with disruptive ideas in urban solutions are encouraged to apply for the LKYGBPC 2025 and take their business plan to the global stage.
Applications for the 12th Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition are now open. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of Asia’s premier business plan competition and accelerate your journey toward building a sustainable and innovative future.
