Brunei Darussalam is progressively growing its startup environment and encouraging innovation. Despite being in its early phases of growth, the country has seen an increase in startups in recent years. The government has made significant initiatives to strengthen the business environment for entrepreneurs in order to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas. This includes some government-led startup organizations that offer startup support programs such as incubation and acceleration services, amongst others. In this article, we have compiled a list of incubator and accelerator programs in Brunei, along with a short overview to help you find a suitable program!
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FULL LIST OF STARTUP INCUBATORS AND ACCELERATORS IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
Stage: Launch
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Sector Agnostic
Startup Brunei is a venture builder that operates a mentorship-based accelerator program which delivers value to the startup ecosystem through their corporate partners and networks. With the goal of transforming the country into a regional hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, Startup Brunei provides a variety of programs and initiatives to assist prospective entrepreneurs in turning their ideas into profitable enterprises.
Their accelerator program is designed for post-bootcamp Brunei startups as well as promising foreign startups that may help the Brunei economy. The program is concentrated on market validation and implementation, whereby enterprise partners will help transform startups to growth companies through their funding, resources, and networks.
Stage: Launch
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Sector Agnostic
With the primary goal of encouraging local businesses to start and thrive in Brunei, DARe (Darussalam Enterprise) was established by His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in 2016. DARe provides a variety of programs and activities to help businesses and boost the country's economic growth.
Among its notable initiatives is the Industry Business Academy (IBA), which offers workshops and training conducted by public and private sector specialists. The IBA covers a wide range of subjects to both aspiring and experienced entrepreneurs. DARe also provides bootcamp programs, such as the Micro Bootcamp, which helps individuals establish their own businesses, and the Accelerate Bootcamp, which intends to help firms grow. They also run the iCentre, which is a business incubator and co-working place for entrepreneurs.
Closing Thoughts on Startup Incubators and Accelerators in Brunei Darussalam
Brunei Darussalam's startup ecosystem shows a youthful and evolving terrain. The government places a high value on its people's well-being and welfare, while simultaneously working to cultivate and encourage the growth of entrepreneurs. With further support and investment, Brunei Darussalam's startup ecosystem has the potential to thrive in the future. Continued efforts to stimulate innovation and provide welcoming conditions for entrepreneurs will be critical in realizing the full potential of Brunei Darussalam's startup ecosystem.
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Frequently Asked Questions on Startup Incubators and Accelerators in Brunei
What are the leading startup accelerators and incubators in Brunei?
Brunei's startup ecosystem is supported by key organizations including Darussalam Enterprise (DARe), Startup Brunei, iCentre, LiveWIRE Brunei, and Progresif Cellular's innovation lab, offering structured programs that guide entrepreneurs from ideation through market entry phases.
Which sectors do Bruneian startup programs primarily focus on?
Bruneian accelerators predominantly support ICT, halal industry solutions, Islamic fintech, ecotourism technologies, sustainable energy innovations, and agritech ventures, aligning with Brunei's Vision 2035 economic diversification strategy beyond oil and gas dependency.
What funding opportunities are available through Bruneian startup initiatives?
Entrepreneurs can access seed funding (typically B$5,000-50,000), microgrants through the Industrial Innovation Assistance Scheme, equity investments from Brunei's emerging angel investor network, government-backed funding through the Micro Financing Scheme, and potential partnerships with established Bruneian corporations seeking innovation.
What resources do Bruneian incubators provide beyond financial support?
Bruneian incubators offer modern workspace facilities in Bandar Seri Begawan, specialized mentorship from regional business leaders, technical infrastructure, market access support, regulatory navigation assistance, networking events connecting ASEAN partners, and guidance for leveraging Brunei's strategic position within the BIMP-EAGA economic zone.
How can international founders participate in Brunei's startup ecosystem?
Foreign entrepreneurs can join programs like Brunei's FDI Connect, DARe's international startup track, and specialized initiatives promoting ASEAN collaboration, which welcome qualified international participants with potential visa support and local partnership facilitation, taking advantage of Brunei's business-friendly environment and gateway position to wider Southeast Asian markets.
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