Following the success of its 2024 debut, Artem Ventures, through its subsidiary Artem PACE, has announced the launch of PACE Bootcamp 2025, a three-day intensive startup accelerator that will travel across six states — Penang, Kelantan, Negeri Sembilan, Johor, Kuala Lumpur, and Selangor.
Designed to uncover entrepreneurial talent nationwide, the initiative aims to provide equal access to mentorship, training, and investor connections for founders outside the Klang Valley.
From Idea to Impact: Empowering Founders Across Malaysia
Unlike typical accelerators that focus on established startups, PACE Bootcamp 2025 welcomes aspiring founders with just an idea. Each three-day programme will guide participants through critical business fundamentals — from product development and storytelling to go-to-market strategy — culminating in a pitch showcase before industry leaders.
“For too long, entrepreneurial programmes have concentrated in Klang Valley, but Malaysia’s hidden gems are everywhere,” said Tunku Omar Asraf, Director of Artem PACE. “PACE Bootcamp 2025 is our commitment to change that — giving every aspiring founder the platform they need to kickstart their journey.”
With over 100 applications already received from sectors such as fintech, biotech, sustainability, edtech, medtech, and agritech, the programme is expected to attract over 30 startups per state, broadening Malaysia’s innovation landscape.
Driving Fintech and Beyond: Strategic Partnership with PayNet
This year, Payment Network Malaysia (PayNet) joins as the main partner, introducing its Fintech Hub to participating startups. Selected founders will gain access to a peer-learning community, 450+ hours of mentorship, and potential funding opportunities from fintech-focused investors.
“As Malaysia’s national payments network, our collaboration with Artem PACE reflects our commitment to nurturing the country’s startup ecosystem,” said Gary Yeoh, Chief Marketing Officer at PayNet. “Through the PayNet Fintech Hub, we aim to help founders accelerate innovation in financial technology and beyond.”
Other key strategic partners include Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB), Grab, and GX Bank, with continued support from Google and WORQ, which provide credits, co-working spaces, and mentorship opportunities.
“Our partnership with Artem PACE supports Johor’s vision to be a leader in the digital and creative economy,” said Mydiana Madzlan, Head of Ecosystem Building at IIB.
Building a Nationwide Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
Nadhirah Mustafa, General Manager of Artem PACE, shared that PACE Bootcamp has already transformed numerous startups since its inception:
- Rosary Labs grew from three to ten members and secured multiple grants.
- Cynco joined two months after founding and later attracted investment from Tenity.
- Nexacore expanded to Thailand and collaborated with Maxis after completing the programme.
“Past participants didn’t just leave with skills — they left with clarity, confidence, and real investor connections,” said Nadhirah. “That’s the transformation we want to replicate nationwide.”
Participants also join Artem Ventures’ “shadow portfolio,” granting them continued mentorship and access to a growing network of corporates, investors, and ecosystem partners.
Grab and GX Bank: Supporting Inclusive Innovation
“At Grab Malaysia and GX Bank, we are proud to support PACE Bootcamp 2025 — an initiative that empowers the next generation of founders across Malaysia,” said Hassan Alsagoff, Regional Head of Loyalty and Marketing at Grab. “Together, we aim to foster innovation and inclusion, driving Malaysia’s evolution into a leading regional tech hub.”
A No-Fee, Equity-Free Platform for Every Aspiring Founder
PACE Bootcamp remains free and equity-free, designed to break down barriers to entry and provide a level playing field for all aspiring entrepreneurs. The 2025 edition kicks off in Johor from 10–12 October, before continuing across the other states.
At the grand finale, the Top 12 startups will pitch their ideas before leading investors, corporates, and venture capital firms — marking a prestigious highlight of the programme.
For more information, visit Artem PACE.
