Why M’sian startup founders need to plug in to this conference organised by Cradle
[This is a sponsored article with Cradle.]
Chances are you know of CIP Spark and CIP Sprint if you’re a part of the Malaysian startup scene.
These grant programmes by Cradle have been assisting local startups to develop ideas and turn them into commercial products for almost three years now.
For the uninitiated, CIP Spark provides grants up to RM150,000 on top of assisting with product development and market validation. On the other hand, CIP Sprint is a seed funding programme for startups with grants up to RM600,000 and helps in product commercialisation.
But before even applying for these grants, how do you raise your startup to a level that qualifies for them?
One way is by joining Cradle’s inaugural PLUGIN conference happening on December 2, 2024.
Why this conference?
Over the years, Cradle has organised many events, from pitching and networking sessions to satellite events that equip entrepreneurs with the tools for success. But this will be the first time they host a major event dedicated to the startup ecosystem in Malaysia.
A one-day conference held at Bricks Studio in PJ, PLUGIN is a stepping stone for founders who are both new and seasoned in the startup scene.
Whether you’re seeking industry knowledge, investors and government funding, or even to connect with fellow entrepreneurs in the ecosystem, PLUGIN is designed to take your startup to the next level.
What’s more is that Cradle-backed startups will be exhibiting and pitching as well, giving you the chance to connect with innovators shaping the future.
Who should attend?
Cradle is starting strong with its first major event dedicated to the startup ecosystem in Malaysia. The team shared with us that they’re expecting more than 500 attendees excluding the exhibitors.
There is something in store for everyone, regardless of your role in the larger startup ecosystem.
For startup founders, the event fosters collaboration and the exchange of ideas on a more intimate level, as well as the opportunity to form partnerships with game-changing investors.
Corporate leaders and government agencies will gain valuable insights into the latest cutting-edge technologies being showcased by up to 50 startups. This includes Cradle-backed startups like POMEN (an app for car service and breakdowns), Faradays Energy (a hydrogen greentech firm), and Angsana Health (a digital-first primary healthcare system).
Even university students and educators will benefit from joining PLUGIN, bridging the gap between academia and industry by exploring real-world applications of research.
A conference that you don’t want to miss
1. Insights from experts and experienced founders
As a comprehensive platform to elevate startups, PLUGIN’s Main Stage will feature four panel sessions and one spotlight session:
| Session Topic | Details |
| Corporate-Startup Synergy: Who Needs Who More? | Moderated by Cradle’s Juliana Jan, they’ll discuss the goals of corporate-startup partnerships and the primary challenges that hinder a smooth collaboration.
Panellists: |
| Grants & Incubators: Fuelling Growth or Stifling Innovation? | Moderated by Artem Venture’s Tunku Omar Asraf, they’ll evaluate the role and impact of government grants and incubators on developing sustainable early-stage startups in Malaysia.
Panellists: |
| The Real Battle: Solving Problems or Creating Solutions? | Moderated by Cradle Seed Ventures’ Farah Wahidah Ab Rafik, they’ll share the secrets to transforming startup obstacles into scalable solutions using real-world examples.
Panellists: |
| VC Blind Spots: Why Malaysia’s ‘Greener Pasture’ Is Still Undervalued? | Moderated by Pointer Advisory’s Matt Lee, they’ll reveal the advantages and challenges of Malaysia becoming a hotspot for foreign VCs and startups.
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| The Great Debate: IPO or Acquisition? (Why Non-Tech Listing in Malaysia is booming?) | Moderated by Cradle’s Muzakkir Mohamad, they’ll explain the unexpected surge in IPOs and acquisitions, particularly in non-tech sectors, and how industry players can navigate the public listing landscape.
Panellists: |
2. Learn from participants of Cradle Pitch
In between the panel sessions, there will also be two Cradle Pitch sessions. Up to eight startups for each session, all of whom are CIP Spark and CIP Sprint grant recipients, will present their tech solutions to a room full of corporates, investors, and founders alike.
Attendees will hear first-hand how founders have navigated the startup journey, as well as pick up tips and tricks for future pitches. This would be especially useful for newer founders who want to learn how to structure pitches, communicate value propositions, and benchmark your startup against others in the market.
And if you find yourself ready to take that next step, you can also catch Cradle’s team at the conference to learn more about their initiatives.
At the end of it all, Cradle is hosting an exclusive, by-invitation-only Award Night Dinner to highlight Cradle-backed startups that have truly stood out. This dinner will be awarding top-performing startups, taking into account their milestones so far.
Some award categories of the night are Trailblazer Cradle Startup of the Year, Disruptor of the Year, Investor Magnet, and more.
Connecting Malaysia’s rising tech talents
More than a gathering of key ecosystem players, PLUGIN is a launchpad for promising Malaysian startups.
From deep dives that tackle the hottest topics in tech at the moment to startup pitches showcasing bold ideas, this conference offers attendees a closer look at Malaysia’s advancing tech scene.
Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this dynamic event. Secure your spot today and join the tech innovators of tomorrow.
Featured Image Credit: Cradle