IOTA APAC Accelerator program kicks off in Singapore, pushing real-world asset tokenization products and infrastructure forward

SINGAPORE. April 9, 2024 — IOTA, the open, feeless data and value transfer distributed ledger technology, announces the coming launch of IOTA APAC Accelerator, a 12-week program supporting early-stage startups and entrepreneurs building the decentralized internet and tokenized economies on IOTA EVM. Developed in partnership with fintech incubator and early-stage investor, Tenity, the initiative will provide participants with funding, mentorship, networking, marketing, and development resources to rapidly scale their work. 

IOTA EVM’s emphasis on real-world asset (RWA) tokenization aligns with the burgeoning interest in bringing tangible assets into the decentralized finance (DeFi) space. This move not only diversifies investment options within the blockchain ecosystem but also bridges a critical gap between traditional and decentralized finance, expanding the utility and reach of blockchain technology. Through facilitating the tokenization of RWAs, IOTA EVM provides a streamlined process for their conversion into digital tokens. 

The strategic move for a Singapore-based accelerator program aligns with Singapore’s commitment to financial innovation and technological advancement. The country’s proactive stance, exemplified by initiatives like Project Guardian, which is led by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, underscores its pivotal role in exploring the tokenization of various assets. This forward-thinking approach not only reinforces its status as a frontrunner in blockchain and fintech innovation but also makes it the optimal hub for an RWA tokenization accelerator program. 

IOTA Ecosystem DLT Foundation and Tenity invite applications from early-stage Web3 companies that have a minimum viable product and that are committed to ushering in the new era of RWA, DeFi, and institutional DeFi services, payments, and infrastructure services. Selected startups will receive a $50,000 grant to aid their venture and will benefit from tailored guidance on how to perfect their business proposition. The program will also culminate with a demo day during the TOKEN2049 conference to attract investors.

In addition, the cohort of startups will benefit from:

• Expertise from the IOTA team and industry players

• A comprehensive exploration of market entry barriers

• Monetization strategy direction

• A validation phase for refining strategic blueprints

• Up to $10,000 in marketing support

• An opportunity to pitch investors for funding

• Tailored advice to perfect product-market fit

• Extensive networking opportunities

The virtual and on-site program will run from June 24 to September 20. Applications will be accepted until May 3.

“We’ve seen unmatched talent and innovation in the APAC region,” says Dominik Schiener, Co-Founder and Chairman of the IOTA Foundation. “Tenity shares in our ethos that tokenized RWAs can provide sustainable value to institutions and users in Singapore and beyond. New entrants to the market can benefit from strategically analyzing their business and strengthening their acumen to realize this next chapter of the digital asset evolution.”

"We're excited to be supporting the next generation of blockchain pioneers," adds Jonas Thuerig, Head of APAC at Tenity. "Through our hybrid model of engagement, we're blending the digital and the tangible to redefine blockchain's frontiers with IOTA. It's not just support; it's a launchpad.”

You can find more details in the blog post here.