Accelerating Asia Announces Cohort 10, Picks 4 Bangladeshi Startups

Accelerating Asia, a Singapore-based early-stage VC accelerator, has announced its tenth cohort, comprising nine startups from five countries across Southeast and South Asia. Notably, four of the nine selected startups come from Bangladesh, marking the second-highest representation of Bangladeshi companies in a single Accelerating Asia cohort. This strong showing follows the accelerator's second cohort, which included five Bangladeshi startups.

Why it matters: The cohort shows the increasing diversity and innovation in Southeast and South Asia's startup landscape, with Bangladesh emerging as a significant player.

By the numbers:

• 9 startups selected from 5 countries
• 1.8% acceptance rate
• 44% of companies have female founders
• US$44k average monthly revenue
• US$165k average previous fundraising (for 6 out of 9 startups)

Driving the news: 4 out of the 9 selected startups are from Bangladesh, marking the country's strongest representation in Accelerating Asia's program to date.

The Bangladeshi startups:

1. Chhaya: First tech-enabled micro-insurance provider
2. Palki Motors: First electric car and truck manufacturer
3. PulseTech: Leading B2B e-commerce for retail pharmacies
4. Relaxy: Mental health platform combining community, AI, and therapist support

The Complete Cohort 10 Lineup

1. Blursday: An AI-powered branding and enforcement solution for startups and early teams
2. Chhaya: Bangladesh's pioneer in tech-enabled micro-insurance
3. HiPajak: Indonesia's leading AI tax consultant for SMEs and individuals
4. Living Roots: Agri-tech startup focusing on crop productivity enhancement
5. Myfitsociety: Indonesia's top women's wellness platform
6. Palki Motors: Bangladesh's trailblazer in electric vehicle manufacturing
7. Prospero: Indonesia's first Risk Management SaaS for enterprises
8. PulseTech: Bangladesh's dominant B2B e-commerce platform for pharmacies
9. Relaxy: Mental health platform combining community, AI, and therapist support

What's next: The startups are currently in Bali for a Cohort Retreat, with two already receiving VC term sheets within the first month.

What is Accelerating Asia?

Accelerating Asia is a Singapore-based early-stage VC fund and accelerator program that invests in pre-Series A startups across Southeast and South Asia.

Key features:

• Provides up to US$250k in funding
• Offers a 100-day accelerator program
• Focuses on startups with regional or global potential
• Has a portfolio of over 100 companies across 11 countries

Why it matters: Accelerating Asia plays a crucial role in nurturing early-stage startups in the region, providing capital, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Previous Bangladeshi Startups Backed by Accelerating Asia

Accelerating Asia has been instrumental in supporting Bangladeshi startups in previous cohorts. Notable examples include iFarmer, Shuttle, SWAP, Markopolo.ai, Nitex, Edutechs, WeGro, Interactive Care, Med Easy, Hishabee, Supply Line, Sohopathi, Dana Fintech, Amarlab, DoctorKoi, Zantrik, Loop, PriyoShop, Hellotask, Romoni, among others. 

The big picture: Many startups backed by Accelerating Asia have gone on to raise additional funding, expand operations, and make significant impacts in their respective industries, showcasing the potential of Bangladesh's startup ecosystem.

What to watch: As Cohort 10 progresses, keep an eye on how these Bangladeshi startups leverage Accelerating Asia's resources to scale their operations, raise additional capital, and expand.