Global Entrepreneurship Programme (GEP)

The Global Entrepreneurship Programme (GEP) at NTU offers a transformative opportunity for university graduates and early-career professionals to acquire the skills and mindset necessary to build innovative, globally-oriented businesses. Building on the success of the Lean LaunchPad Programme (LLP) which is now transformed into a comprehensive incubator programme known as the - National Graduate Research Innovation Programme (National GRIP), GEP provides a unique platform to turn inventive technologies into commercially viable products and thriving ventures.

The Lean Launchpad methodology is derived from the I-Corp programme from the National Science Foundation in the United States and has been successfully implemented at leading institutions such as Stanford University, the University of California, Berkeley, and Columbia University. Tailored to the Singapore’s context, it has become an evidence-based innovation platform at NTU, specifically designed to accelerate the commercialisation of deep technology. To date, the LLP programme has successfully trained over 400 entrepreneurs across more than 150 startup teams at NTU.

Participants will undergo immersive market exploration and develop essential skills to identify and capitalise on business opportunities across diverse industries. With exclusive access to NTU’s extensive intellectual property portfolio, participants will be equipped with the necessary tools to build scalable, technology-driven enterprises. Join us to become part of the next generation of founders and CEOs, ready to make a global impact.

Registration will be open soon. For any enquiries, please email gep@ntu.edu.sg.

Click here to learn our programme information in Chinese.

Who are we looking for?

We seek individuals with a strong entrepreneurial mindset and the aspiration to start and manage their own companies. It is not necessary to have a business idea or a team to apply, but participants must be open to collaboration and co-founder matching within the programme cohort. Existing business owners are welcome to apply if the company has been incorporated for less than 2 years.

Eligibility Criteria:

A bachelor’s degree or higher in science, engineering or business-related disciplines.
A professional with industry experience is preferred.
Good command of spoken and written English.
Residency in the country where the programme is being held.

What’s in it for me?

Comprehensive Incubation Programme

Develop entrepreneurial skills and learn global business strategies through NTU’s Innovation and Enterprise Office.

Expert Mentorship & Cross-Culture Training

Benefit from experienced instructors and mentors, with additional insights through the Singapore Immersion Programme.

State-of-the-Art Makerspaces

Access well-equipped facilities for rapid prototyping and development with expert guidance.

Market Research Support

Utilise advanced tools and resources to analyse market demand and customer behaviour.

Feasibility Studies

Evaluate the technical, financial, and regulatory viability of your business ideas.

Access to NTU Technologies

Leverage NTU’s cutting-edge innovations to gain a competitive edge.

Proof-of-Concept Funding

Secure financial support to validate early-stage ideas.

Funding Opportunities

High-potential teams may qualify for seed funding.

Programme Dates

The programme has an annual intake. Application deadline and start date to be confirmed.

Programme Structure

In today’s global ecosystem, startups thrive with a structured and evidence-based approach to uncover business opportunities, validate markets, and deploy the right technologies for scalable growth.

Phase 0 - Mixer Event	A networking event designed to help participants connect with potential co-founders or teammates. This gathering provides a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to build relationships, exchange ideas, and align their goals. Mode of Instruction: In-person event held in the programme’s host country.
Phase 1 - Finding Problem-Solution Fit	Participants will learn to identify market and business gaps, gain a deep understanding of customer needs and pain points, and explore NTU’s technologies with the guidance from instructors and mentors.
Phase 2 - Finding Product-Market and Business Model Fit	Participants will learn to develop products that effectively address identified problems by incorporating features that meet market needs. They will also explore the interconnected factors influencing product-market fit and evaluate the viability of their business model. Mode of Instruction for Phase 1 and 2: Hybrid format, combining live online sessions with in-person engagements with instructors and mentors.
Phase 3 – Be Venture Ready	As participants continue refining their business approach and product, they will gain insights into fundraising, venture capital dynamics, incorporation processes, and pitch preparation. The programme will conclude with a capstone pitch event and a market immersion trip to Singapore, where participants will learn about local business incorporation and regulations, navigate the cultural nuances of doing business in Southeast Asia, and engage in business meetings. Mode of Instruction for Phase 3: Hybrid format, concluding with a market immersion trip to Singapore.