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Nearly 400 People Attended HKSGM Symposium “Microbiome Medicine – The Key to Total Health Management” Medical Experts Gathered to Discuss Microbiome Therapeutics

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 18 July 2023 – A growing body of research shows that mental distress such as depression and insomnia, allergies, asthma, neurodegeneration like Alzheimer’s disease, autoimmune skin conditions including psoriasis or even certain types of cancer are related to gut microbiome dysbiosis. At the Gut Microbiome International Symposium held on 15 July 2023, a panel of medical experts and researchers concluded that gut microbiome-based health management can be an effective strategy of disease prevention and treatment.

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Hong Kong Society of Gut Microbiome revealed at the symposium that it will launch a clinical study on the impact of novel probiotics intervention on severe depression and insomnia in collaboration with mental health experts from the mainland. The project is purported to explore evidence-based remedies for mental disorders that work alongside conventional medication.

Health and Diseases – Gut Microbiome Matters

Hong Kong Society of Gut Microbiome hosted its 4th Gut Microbiome International Symposium on 15th July 2023 at the Charles Kao Auditorium. The event discussing Microbiome Medicine – The Key to Total Health Management was attended by more than 200 people. The Public Mental Health Centre, Wenzhou Medical University is the co-organiser of the symposium.

Dr Steven Loo, representative of the HKSGM remarked in his welcome speech that despite the growing awareness on the significance of gut microbiome, its application in prevention of diseases and health management is underdeveloped in Hong Kong. In particular, the use of microbiome-based approach to mental disorders such as depression, and major health concerns like Alzheimer’s disease, immune system diseases and cancer which prevail in our ageing population. “The HKSGM is dedicated to research on and to promote gut microbiome health management. By doing so, we hope to help people prevent certain health issues and thus reduce the burden of medical expenses on individuals and the society at large.”

Clinical study for Mental Health

According to the World Health Organization’s scientific brief, global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by a massive 25% in the first year of Covid-19 pandemic. HKSGM’s community research also found that the people who had sleep problems or depression were prone to lack specific probiotic strains in their gut. Dr Loo pointed out that in the face of the increasingly severe mental health crisis, there is a dire need of more diverse, evidence-based and cost-effective solutions to alleviate mental health problems like depression and anxiety. Gut microbiome health management can be one of the options.

Dr Yu Yan Qui, Senior Researcher, School of Public Health, Fudan University cited meta-analyses that many clinical research and community research had indicated the positive impacts of probiotics on alleviating depression and sleep problems. However, the studies are mostly foreign and the sample sizes are rather small.

HKSGM, Wenzhou Medical University and the Second People’s Hospital of Lishui City have reached an agreement on a one-year collaborative research project which will look into the efficacy of probiotics supplement for severe depression and insomnia. The study will recruit 500 participants. Being one of the largest cross-disciplinary research on mental health and gut microbiome, the study is expected to gather extensive data from the Chinese population and its findings will provide valuable implication for mental health practitioners in Hong Kong, the Mainland and even overseas, benefitting public mental health in the long run.

A New Way to Treat Alzheimer’s Disease and Cancer

Seven speakers spoke on gut microbiome therapeutics for different health issues and the related research results.

Currently, there are few proven therapies to alleviate Alzheimer’s disease or curb its development. Professor Lin Zhi Xiu, Director in the School of Chinese Medicine, the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) pointed out that Alzheimer’s disease has a strong association with gut microbiome. His research in mouse model has shown that patchouli alcohol, a type of Chinese herbal medicine can ameliorate cognitive deficits through modulating gut microbiota. By suppressing the accumulation of amyloid deposition, patchouli alcohol works to improve cognitive functions such as memory and spatial senses. The study indicates the possible application of patchouli alcohol in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and gives strong evidence on the link between Alzheimer’s disease and dysbiosis.

Professor Stephen Tsui, Professor and Associate director (Research) in the School of Biomedical Sciences, CUHK talked about unlocking the link between gut microbiome, asthma and cancer. He cites a study findings that the prevalence of asthma in Hong Kong is 10 times higher than that in Heyuan on the Mainland, saying that other than gene, gut dysbiosis due to excessive hygiene and meat-based diet is also a major culprit of having asthma. Gut microbiome conditions are found to have a direct linkage with the efficacy of asthma treatment, according to a latest research study. Also, Professor Tsui warned that pathogenic microbiota in the gut promotes chronic inflammation which could impair the immune system and trigger the increase of cytokine and cancer-inducing substances in the body, leading to the development and metastasis of cancer cells.

Professor Sun Bao Qing, Vice Director of The National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases shared her insights on the epidemiology of food allergies from the gut microbiome perspective. The fact being that incidences of food allergies are on the rise across the Mainland, more and more evidence has emerged, pointing to the significant role of gut microbiome in the development of immune system during infancy. Hence, how to ensure gut microbiome health for infants is considered one of the most critical research directions. For example, breastfeeding and caesarean section are found to be associated with gut microbiome conditions. Researchers are looking to how to reduce food allergies risk by early lifestyle modification, including precision probiotics supplement. Severe food allergies can be fatal and cause other health issues such as malnutrition and mental distress. Professor Sun hopes to see more research inputs in the area of microbiome therapeutics.

Probiotics As Cure for Eczema and Psoriasis

In addition, Dr Steven Loo said there had been considerable evidence that supports gut microbiome intervention is an effective way to treat eczema (atopic dermatisits)and psoriasis.

Dr Loo presented the findings of the HKSGM’s research studies on the topic. More than 80 percent of the eczema patients, who had taken prescribed probiotics formula for two months, turned out to have their Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) score lowered, an indicator of improvement. Those responders exhibited elevated relative abundance of Fecalibacterium, Lactobacillus, etc.

On psoriasis, the HKSGM conducted a clinical study in collaboration with the Hong Kong Psoriasis Patients Association in 2021. The subjects reported significant decrease in PASI score and DLQI score which reflect significant improvement of dysbiosis, upon the completion of a two months administration of E3 probiotic formula. The data also indicates that the participants had higher Firmicutes / Bacteroidetes ratios in their gut lining, compared to the control group.

Mr Gary Lai, Chairman, Hong Kong Psoriasis Patients Association , who took part in the study as a patient said most of the participants had their symptoms relieved following the precision probiotics treatment regime, even for those with recurring symptoms and those suffering from the disease for decades reported positive responses. Many participants are grateful for the alleviation of the comorbid health problems including cardiovascular problems , anxiety and joint pains.

Dr Rittiwong, functional medicine expert from Thailand shared her experience at hospital. One of her patients had recurring skin problems after a 30 days antibiotic treatment. Dr Rittiwong prescribed personalised probiotics supplement based on her personal gut microbiome test results. After the microbiome therapy, coupled with detoxification, and dietary and lifestyle modification, that patient has had her skin conditions improved significantly.

Hashtag: #HKSGM

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Hong Kong Society of Gut Microbiome

Hong Kong Society of Gut Microbiome (HKSGM) is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2019 by a group of scientists, medical experts and researchers specializing in gut microbiome science. The HKSGM is committed to promote microbiome knowledge and microbiome-based health management through public education, training, research and advocacy.

Ministry of Transport Suggests Setting up Fund to Maintain Roads, Prevent Accidents

Mr. Ngampasong Muongmany, Minister of Public Works and Transport. (Photo: Lao Economic News).

The Minister of Public Works and Transport announced his plan to increase state budgets for road safety work by setting up a fund amid the increasing number of road accidents in Laos.

UMP Healthcare Innov Centre signs MoU with Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 18 July 2023 – UMP Healthcare Innov Centre recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute (IEICI), witnessed by Head of Israel Economic and Commercial Mission in Hong Kong and Macau, to jointly promote Israeli scientific research and start-up companies in the medical and healthcare field in Hong Kong, and to seek cooperation opportunities in the fields of MedTech and HealthTech. At the same occasion, IEICI inked a collaboration pact with the Hong Kong Medical and Healthcare Device Industries Association (HKMHDIA) to foster tighter cooperation between Hong Kong and Israeli enterprises.

Ronnie LI, Director at UMP Healthcare Innov Centre, delivered his remarks
Ronnie LI, Director at UMP Healthcare Innov Centre, delivered his remarks

With an ageing population and increased need for medical professionals, the tendency is to create medical technology to relieve the strain on human resources. The parties will collaborate to promote medical technology and healthcare products, seek potential investors for medical technology and products, jointly organise and participate in various forum activities, provide consulting services for start-up companies, and so on, according to the framework established by the memorandum.

“I am very pleased to sign a memorandum of cooperation with IEICI,” said Ronnie LI, Director at UMP Healthcare Innov Centre. “UMP Healthcare Group has continuously invested in medical equipment as well as cutting-edge scientific research and products. UMP Healthcare Innov Centre, Hong Kong’s first permanent exhibition platform for MedTech, actively seeks suitable instruments to apply to the Group’s services. We are extremely honoured to be able to partner with IEICI and HKMHDIA to jointly promote public and industry peers’ awareness of Israel’s high-tech goods and innovations, as well as to foster professionalism between Hong Kong and Israel.”

Group photo after signing MOU with UMP Healthcare Innov Centre, HKMHDIA and IEICI
Group photo after signing MOU with UMP Healthcare Innov Centre, HKMHDIA and IEICI

Over the past few decades, Israel has established itself as one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world. With ranking first in the world for R&D expenditure as a share of GDP, the highest number of startups per capita, and advanced technological capabilities across a vast range of sectors. Healthcare is currently the largest sector in the Israeli startup ecosystem, representing about 20% of all technology companies, with over 1,600 active startup companies developing cutting-edge technologies to address a wide range of health challenges. These include digital health solutions, medical devices, drug development, and more. “We are very excited to sign the MOU,” stated Mrs. Nili SHALEV, Chief Executive Officer of IEICI. “I believe this collaboration can help to strengthen ties between Hong Kong and Israel, and allow healthcare enterprises and startups of both places to work together more closely, by cooperating on research and development initiatives, combining resources and skills, generating innovative goods and technologies, and offering the most recent investment prospects to the industry and adjacent areas.”

Dr. Lydia LEUNG, Chairlady of HKMHDIA, commented, “HKMHDIA’s annual theme this year is to establish Hong Kong as International MedTecHub. The signing of the memorandum with Israel today is an important milestone, which is of special significance to us. Not only will we strive to promote knowledge exchange among medical professionals in Israel, Hong Kong and Mainland China, we expect that the technology and products of both parties can be promoted to the Greater Bay Area, Mainland China and the international market to achieve a win-win situation.”

Hashtag: #UMPHealthcareInnovCentre

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About UMP Healthcare Holdings Limited

Founded in 1990, UMP Healthcare is a medical group listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (stock code 722.HK) and is one of the leading comprehensive healthcare service platforms in the Hong Kong market. We have been committed “To provide comprehensive, diversified and coordinated care for everyone” by creating a network of high-quality and effective medical services for patients, payers, providers and partners.

Along with providing healthcare services that address a wide range of individual needs, UMP Healthcare closely works with more than 2,000 local and international businesses and insurance organisations to establish and administer corporate healthcare benefit programs for members. The medical service network spans over 1,000 self-owned and affiliated institutions across Hong Kong, Macau, and Mainland China, offering services such as family medicine, specialist consultation, dental care, diagnostic imaging and laboratory testing, preventive medicine and health examination, physical therapy, day surgery, and endoscopy, among others.

Miss Universe launches M*U Beverage, the first spin-off commercial line encompassing Ready-To-Drink Functional beverages and Natural Alkaline Mineral Water sourced exclusively from Iceland.

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach – 18 July 2023 – The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) is venturing into uncharted territory with the launch of M*U Beverage, a new business venture under the brand name “M*U”. Guided by the vision to bring smarter hydration to people worldwide through exceptional products that both refresh and nourish them, the product lineup contains two types of drinks: M*U NØR Natural Alkaline Mineral Water and M*U functional beverages, which will come in 5 flavors.

Miss Universe launches M*U Beverage, featuring Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip, Chief Executive Officer of JKN Global Group Public Company Limited, and the owner of The Miss Universe Organization and R'Bonney Gabriel, Miss Universe 2022
Miss Universe launches M*U Beverage, featuring Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip, Chief Executive Officer of JKN Global Group Public Company Limited, and the owner of The Miss Universe Organization and R’Bonney Gabriel, Miss Universe 2022

Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip, Chief Executive Officer of JKN Global Group Public Company Limited, and the owner of The Miss Universe Organization, said: “The Miss Universe brand is universal – forever evolving beyond the limits of our imagination. M*U Beverage is the first Miss Universe branded product line that espouses our original values: empowering women to realize their ambition and build self-confidence as a catalyst for future success.”

“In today’s fast-paced world, access to quality beverages is essential for a better and healthier life. M*U Beverage understands that drinks play a vital role in daily sustenance, and we aim to offer a vast variety of daily quenchers to uplift daily life. With this mission in mind, we have created a line of premium hydrations. We worked alongside nutritionists and natural ingredients experts to research, test, and produce products that energize, refresh, and rejuvenate minds and bodies,” added Anne.

M*U functional drinks are made from natural ingredients, containing zero caffeine, no sugar, no preservatives and less than 45 kcal/bottle. They are currently available in 5 variations:

  • Zen: Green tea & yuzu flavor, made with calming magnesium, L-Theanine, and GABA to ease anxiety and stress.
  • Immune: Lemon flavor, made with Vitamin C and astragalus to boost the immune system.
  • Focus: Berry flavor, made with branch chain amino acids to help support cognitive function and focus.
  • Happy: Raspberry & mint flavor, made with Vitamin B complex and calming magnesium for mood and productivity.
  • Fiber +: Pineapple & coconut flavor, fortified with fiber to keep you fuller throughout the day.

M*U Beverage is also excited to launch M*U NØR Natural Alkaline Mineral Water, the first alkaline water offered in a bespoke glass bottle and bottled in Thailand. Sourced from the pristine springs of Reykjavik, Iceland, where the mineral water is some of the cleanest and purest in the world, M*U NØR Natural Alkaline Mineral Water is perpetually replenished with glacier melt from the Olfus spring that has been filtered through layers of lava rock. With a pH of 8.4, M*U NØR is the epitome of freshness, offering remarkable health benefits through the presence of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium.

Miss Universe Delegates from 8 countries joined the launching event
Miss Universe Delegates from 8 countries joined the launching event

M*U Beverage recognizes the increasing demand for alkaline waters and functional drinks in international markets. Due to consumers’ increasing health awareness post-pandemic, health-conscious consumers are seeking benefits such as boosts in hydration, energy, and immunity in functional beverages.

Market analysis reveals the tremendous growth potential and emerging trends in these sectors:

  • The global functional drinks market was worth US$204.8 billion in 2022 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1% from 2023 to 2030.
  • The global premium bottled water market is expected to reach US$33.40 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 7.0% from 2023 to 2030. Growing awareness of leading a healthy lifestyle has led to a shift in consumer preferences towards premium bottled water options, driven by concerns over high sugar content and sweeteners in carbonated drinks. The presence of essential minerals further drives the demand for premium bottled water.

By strategically entering the Ready to Drink sector, M*U Beverages aims to capture early adopters in a staggering market worth well over US$749 billion, projected to grow at a remarkable CAGR of 6.38% through 2030. This exponential growth will result in a market worth well over US$1.1 trillion, making it a prime opportunity for Miss Universe to establish its presence and drive unparalleled success.

Embarking on a journey that seamlessly blends functionality and elegance, M*U Beverages will make its grand entrance in Thailand, with plans to capture the global market by the end of the year.

With a legacy spanning 72 years, the Miss Universe Organization has captivated audiences worldwide, embodying values of empowerment and self-confidence for women to realize their ambitions and catalyze future success. By leveraging its prestigious long-standing heritage, M*U beverages will establish strategic partners in esteemed markets such as Australia, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, and China, to name a few.

The launch of M*U Beverages in Bangkok was attended by famous industry insiders, celebrities, and social media influencers, including Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel, Miss Universe 2005 Natalie Glebova, and Miss Universe Thailand 2022 Anna S., among others.

Launching internationally in early 2024, M*U Beverages will unveil its brand to the world, debuting at the prominent Anuga FoodTec Fair, in Cologne, Germany. M*U Beverages will also debut in major international F&B trade shows and events across the world, including Gulfood, Dubai; Expo West, Anaheim, CA; Anufood Brazil, Sao Paulo; Vita Foods Europe, Geneva, Switzerland; Thaifex, Thailand; Alimentec, Colombia; Fine Food Australia, Melbourne; and Sial, Paris.

Hashtag: #MissUniverse

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

JKN Global Media Public Company Limited

JKN Global Group Public Company Limited and its subsidiaries are a group of companies that engage in the business of providing services and distributing copyrighted content. Our services and content have driven phenomenal ratings on various television stations and the company has successfully entered the Stock Exchange of Thailand under the name JKN. Our name stands for Jakapong Network, which is the name of our Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Jakapong Jakrajutatip. JKN Global Group Public Company Limited also sells goods and products as well as commercial time through JKN18, a digital TV channel. As we increase our footprint as a major content commerce company, we are proud to own the Miss Universe Organization and to help empower the next generation of women leaders.

The Miss Universe Organization

MUO is owned by JKN Global Group Public Company Limited, a major media, content, and commerce holding company (Stock Exchange of Thailand: JKN).

The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) exists to advocate for a future forged by women and good for all.

It is a global community that supports women to realize their goals through experiences that build self-confidence and create opportunities for success. MISS UNIVERSE® programs provide the 10,000 women who participate annually an international platform to affect positive change through influential humanitarian and professional efforts. The delegates and titleholders are leaders and role models in their communities; they develop personal and professional goals, and inspire others to do the same. To learn more, visit .

The Future of Patient Care Begins in Malaysia

Malaysia is redefining patient care experiences by fully integrating a combination of advanced amenities and contemporary technologies to produce a distinct healthcare ecosystem.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach – 18 July 2023 – Malaysia is heralding a progressive future of patient care that has the potential to revolutionise the way healthcare travellers access quality treatments. With an intensified focus on innovation and technological advancements, the nation’s healthcare providers are propelling personalised health provisions to unprecedented heights, attending to patients’ individual needs more effectively than ever before.

MHTC-PR-photo-for-Health-Check-V4.jpeg

Malaysia is truly a frontrunner in healthcare, as evidenced by an impressive uptick of healthcare travellers since its borders reopened. According to the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), healthcare travellers contributed upwards of more than RM1.3bil in revenue in 2022.

In aligning with this trend, healthcare in the country is upping the ante, transitioning from curative to include preventive care. The KL Wellness City (KLWC) exemplifies this progression. Equipped with the vision of accommodating healthcare needs, KLWC seeks to be the materialisation of healthy living in concrete form. Once fully developed, the purpose-built hub will offer a comprehensive ecosystem of medical, healthcare, wellness and fitness services that go beyond the traditional hospital-centric approach, making it Malaysia’s first healthcare-oriented township.

“KLWC has an international tertiary hospital component as its central focus. The adjacent blocks house specialist clinics and other auxiliary healthcare services. There is a block of accommodations and four blocks of land containing retirement residences. All of these are interconnected by weatherproof covered access,” said Dato’ Dr. Colin Lee, Managing Director of KLWC.

Within the second phase, the focus expands to include providing alternative medicine or traditional medicine in the form of supplements, anti-ageing skincare, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals and many more. KLWC is set to be completed over a 10-year period and will also encompass medical suites and wellness suites for healthcare travellers, as well as assisted living units and multigenerational units.

Moving up north, Island Hospital has taken the next step in elevating patient care and experiences with its Island Medical City (IMC). Upon completion, IMC further expands on the existing Island Medical Hospital with a new 12-storey hospital building complete with 1,000 beds and a medical tourist hotel, among other ancillary facilities. The recent unveiling of a newly expanded wing of the hospital — dubbed the Peel Wing — as the first phase of IMC reflects its commitment towards progressively accommodating increasing numbers of healthcare travellers.

The Peel Wing extension provides a full spectrum of medical and surgical patient services, including health screenings, cutting-edge oncological therapies, advanced minimally invasive general and cardiothoracic surgery, robotic-assisted surgeries and AI-guided rehabilitation, offering a hint of the full capability of a fully functioning IMC. The wing is connected to the Macalister Wing, the current hospital building, via a first-in-Penang 120-metre underpass walkway. Centres of excellence including the Nuclear Medicine and Radiotherapy centres are also situated within this wing.

Founder and Director of Island Hospital Mark Wee takes pride in the hospital’s partnerships with some of the industry’s biggest manufacturers, such as Siemens and Philips, which facilitates the delivery of excellent patient care.“Our competence in infrastructure and expertise allows us to maximise patient experience and care. That is exactly what we intend to do with the IMC project. Following the Peel Wing development, the next phase will include a medical complex, suites and a medical tourism hotel. We also intend to restructure the current Macalister wing, which will incorporate a women’s and children’s hospital, an assisted living complex with geriatric care, or even a retirement village,” he added.

Patient centricity is always at the heart of Malaysia Healthcare, which seeks to ensure that both local and international patients have access to exceptional care and services via a comprehensive integrated patient-centred ecosystem. The KLWC and IMC are two examples of how the country is staying ahead of global trends and demands, allowing healthcare travellers to gain access to a plethora of world-class healthcare facilities and medical personnel in one convenient venue as they experience true care in a safe and trusted destination.

For more information on Malaysia Healthcare and its services, please visit https://malaysiahealthcare.org/ or visit our social feeds at: www.facebook.com/MHTCMalaysia or at LinkedIn (Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council).
Hashtag: #MalaysiaHealthcareTravelCouncil

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About The Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council

The Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) is a government agency under the Ministry of Health Malaysia that has been entrusted with the responsibility of curating the country’s healthcare travel scene. Founded in 2009, MHTC works to streamline industry players and service providers in facilitating and growing Malaysia’s healthcare travel industry under the brand “Malaysia Healthcare” with the intended goal of making Malaysia the leading global healthcare destination. MHTC works closely with over 90 private healthcare facilities in Malaysia, who are registered members of MHTC.

Thailand Includes Laos-China Railway in 2024 Strategic Direction, Boosting Tourism Connectivity

Laos-China Railway at Vientiane Station
An EMU train and standard train at Vientiane Station.

Thailand’s Tourism Authority has incorporated the Laos-China Railway into its 2024 strategic direction, aiming to enhance tourism connectivity and attract quality visitors, marking a significant step towards sustainable growth and equitable distribution of benefits.

Laos Co-chairs Mekong-Ganga Cooperation Ministerial Meeting in Bangkok

Mekong-Ganga Cooperation Boosts Socio-Economic Development in the Region
Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Saleumxay Kommasith at the 12th Mekong-Ganga River Cooperation Framework Meeting in Bangkok (photo: Pasaxon)

Laos secured funding of USD 500,000 for a series of poverty reduction projects through the Mekong-Ganga scheme during the 12th Mekong-Ganga River Cooperation Framework Meeting held in Bangkok, Thailand on Sunday.

500 Global and Taiwan Tech Arena (TTA) to Power Third Cohort of Startups to Aim for Next Level Growth

20 local and international tech startups to present their businesses to a curated global audience

TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach – 18 July 2023 – Global multi-stage venture capital firm 500 Global is set to kick off the 500 Global Taiwan Startup Program with TTA 2023 in partnership with Taiwan Tech Arena (TTA). The program will welcome 20 local and international startups to a week-long in-person bootcamp in Taipei, designed to grow tech startups through hands-on workshops and mentoring sessions led by 500 Global’s world-class mentors.

The program represents 500 Global’s commitment to providing continued support to startups and those looking to tap into the Taiwanese market. The startups selected for the program have developed prototypes with early traction and will participate in rigorous training and curated mentorship over the course of a one-week immersive bootcamp in Taipei. Post-bootcamp, there is an opportunity for startups to be selected to receive 12-week tailored support from 500 Global.

“We’re impressed by the talent of this year’s cohort. From our observation, Taiwan has such a vibrant startup ecosystem with a wealth of talented entrepreneurs. This year’s group of startups have already shown exciting potential. We’re honored to help them grow and make impact in their fields,” said Tony Wang, Managing Partner at 500 Global.

The program will host 15 Taiwanese and 5 international startups, selected from over 170 applications from regions including Hong Kong, South Korea, Southeast Asia, North America, Africa, Europe. In addition to the program, founders, key industry stakeholders, ecosystem partners, and corporate executives as well as the press are welcome to join the 500 Global in Taiwan: Go Global Showcase on Friday, July 28 at Taiwan Tech Arena in Taipei. The event aims to foster meaningful connections, highlight groundbreaking ideas, and explore the immense potential of Taiwan’s startup ecosystem. It will also include discussions on global fundraising strategies, M&A challenges and learnings, and growing businesses from early-stage to exit from serial founders and CXOs.

This cohort of startups include:

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AIoT

iCHASE: YOUR AI POULTRY HEALTH KEEPER.

PurismEV: PurismEV develops AI powertrain systems to empower future EV.

SeeWhat Technology: Key to Smart Aquaculture Integration: AI Technology Revealing the Underwater World with Clarity and Precision!

Wegrow: We build an AI-powered Greenhouse Platform to grow organic fruits.

Consumer

BintanGO: Creator Powered Marketing & 24/7 Live Commerce.

PopChill: PopChill is a fashion luxury marketplace powered by authentication in the middle.

Sorra: Sorra is a “Tinder for Beauty Products”. We match every piece of skin to the most suitable products with AI and facial tracking. Sorra helps thousands of beauty brands to target segmented customers with a lower cost.

Digital Health

aiFree Interactive Technology: aiFree, your Intelligent Health Partner.

Surglasses: Taiwan Main Orthopaedic Biotechnology (Surglasses) is an innovative medical company that develops and markets a range of innovative products for use in medical education and surgical navigation solutions.

Fintech

Authme: Trusted identity made easy.

Autopass: Autopass makes your vehicle a new payment method just like Amazon Go.

MACROMICRO: MacroMicro, the first macroeconomic investment information platform in Asia.

Oen Tech: Integrated one-stop solution for your organization’s digital needs.

SaaS

KaChick: An AI-driven SaaS platform, revolutionizes Southeast Asia’s photography industry by streamlining collaboration, boosting productivity, and unlocking revenue opportunities for 15,000+ professionals.

Ocard: Ocard is a one-stop CRM and marketing SaaS solution designed specifically for offline businesses, integrating with IM such as LINE, WhatsApp, etc.

Portaly: Mobile website builder enhanced by AI.

Preciser: Streamline sports data with powerful software and APIs.

Web3

Growing3: Growing3 is a Growth Hacking Ninja for web3 projects to acquire and retain quality users with on/off-chain data analytics, focusing on marketing, growth, analytics and marTech for projects such as Web3 Game, DApp, and NFT.

RE:DREAMER Lab: The Future of Asset Tokenization: Redeem Protocol’s Decentralized Network for RWA NFTokenization.

Term Structure: Term Structure is dedicated to building a DeFi infrastructure, pioneering a market-driven ‘term structure’ of interest rates, which serves as a cornerstone for diverse financial products and offers versatile hedging tools for DeFi enthusiasts and traditional finance institutions.

Interested parties can request an invitation to witness the future of tech innovation by registering here.

Hashtag: #500Global

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About 500 Global

is a multi-stage venture capital firm with $2.5B in assets under management that invests in founders building fast-growing technology companies. We focus on markets where technology, innovation, and capital can unlock long-term value and drive economic growth. We work closely with key stakeholders and advise governments on how best to support entrepreneurial ecosystems so startups can thrive. 500 Global has backed over 5,000 founders representing more than 2,800 companies operating in 80+ countries. We have invested in 45+ companies valued at over $1 billion and 150+ companies valued at over $100 million (including private, public, and exited companies). Our 190+ team members are located in over 25 countries and bring experience as entrepreneurs, investors, and operators from some of the world’s leading technology companies.

About Taiwan Tech Arena

, or Taiwan Tech Arena, is a program designed to create a deep tech startup ecosystem by bringing together academic/R&D talents, startups, accelerators, corporations, and investors in one location. The program is based in Taipei Arena, which boasts a co-working and event space of over 3,000 square meters specifically designed for tech innovation. TTA’s goal is to cultivate entrepreneurship in deep technology, foster the commercialization of innovation, and build a thriving cross-border startup community.