HDCA 2025: Penang’s Hardtech and Deeptech Accelerator Now Open for Applications
PENANG, 28 April 2025 – Digital Penang proudly announces the 3rd Cohort of the Hardtech & Deeptech Commercialisation Accelerator (HDCA) 2025. This strategic initiative enables scientists, engineers, and innovators in Penang to bring transformative hardware-based and deeptech solutions out of the lab and into real-world markets.
HDCA 2025 advances Malaysia’s Startup Ecosystem Roadmap (SUPER) blueprint by accelerating innovation, strengthening the digital economy, and enhancing national competitiveness. In strong alignment, it also drives Penang’s Penang2030 vision of building a connected, creative, and competitive society through the commercialization of next-generation technologies.
“Hardtech and deeptech are the next frontiers for Penang. Building on the strength of our manufacturing and E&E sectors, we are determined to become a leading innovation hub for the region,” said YB Zairil Khir Johari, Penang State EXCO for Infrastructure, Transport and Digital.
Participants selected for HDCA 2025 will embark on a nine-month journey with real-world deployment opportunities through matched Proof-of-Concept (PoC) trials, experienced industry mentorship and workshops designed to sharpen business models, define customer markets and investor-readiness. The most outstanding startup will earn the coveted chance to pitch live to investors at the Startup Venture Vibe Summit in Penang. The goal of this programme is to turn TRL6/7 prototypes into market-ready solutions and ventures.
Digital Penang is extending its dynamic working relationship with 1337 Ventures, a leading early-stage startup venture development company in this programme for its 3rd year. This programme has seen brought to market commercial solution from prototypes in space technology, agritech, vision systems for industrial safety, industrial IoT connectivity hub, advance cybersecurity solutions and many others.
Who Should Apply?
HDCA 2025 invites university spin-offs, research teams, engineers and innovators with prototype at Technology Readiness Level 7 (TRL-7) who are eager to fast-track their solutions into the market. Whether advancing cutting-edge hardware, deeptech, or emerging technologies, this programme offers the ideal launchpad for real-world commercial success.
The nine-month journey unfolds through five key stages: application and shortlisting, sponsor matching for Proof-of-Concept development, real-world technology deployment, business venture development, and PoC completion with live investor pitching at the Startup Venture Vibe Summit.
HDCA 2025 welcomes innovators from all deeptech and hardtech fields. In line with Penang’s innovation priorities, solutions in HealthTech, GreenTech, Artificial Intelligence, Consumer Tech, and Climate Tech are areas of particular opportunity, but applications from all sectors are strongly encouraged.
Calling for Applications
Applications for HDCA 2025 are now open. Visionary innovators are encouraged to register today and seize this extraordinary opportunity to fast-track their hardtech and deeptech solutions into the market.
Registration closes on 31st May 2025.
To learn more and apply, visit https://startup.digitalpenang.my/index.php/hdca2025/
