Global Landing Pads Awards
Helping UNSW startups go global
The UNSW Global Landing Pads Awards (Landing Pads) help startups break into global markets by providing funding, expert mentorship, and key international connections. A joint initiative of UNSW Office of Global Affairs & UNSW Founders, opens in a new window, Landing Pads is designed to support high-potential ventures in securing investors, expanding overseas, and establishing themselves in key global ecosystems.
Who is it for?
Landing Pads is open to UNSW-affiliated startups that:
- Are up to (and including) Series A and have 30 employees or fewer
- Have a solution at TRL 6 or above.
- Have at least one UNSW-affiliated co-founder (student, staff or alumnus) OR is a UNSW Spinout OR is a UNSW Founders Portfolio Startup
- Want to build connections with investors, customers, and partners overseas
As part of UNSW’s global strategy, this program helps startups navigate international expansion, accelerate market entry, and secure funding opportunities.
Why apply? Unlock global opportunities for your startup
Landing Pads isn’t just about funding—it’s about getting your startup investor-ready, globally connected, and positioned for long-term success.
What you get as a Landing Pads Recipient:
Fast-track global expansion
Access up to AUD $8,000 in funding to support market entry.
In-country support through Investment NSW & Austrade.
Introductions to potential investors, partners & industry leaders.
High-value market connections
Tap into UNSW’s global research & innovation networks.
Receive tailored guidance on navigating new markets.
Leverage mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs & experts.
Boost your startup’s investment potential
Get hands-on support to enhance your valuation & attract investors.
Secure brand visibility through media exposure in your target region.
Learn from successful UNSW startup alumni who have gone global.
Low-risk, high-impact growth
Rolling applications mean you can apply at a time that suits your growth stage.
Flexible funding can be used for travel, accommodation, and strategic business development.
No equity taken—just pure support to help you scale.
How it works?
Where can you expand?
Landing Pads provide the launch pad for your global expansion—whether you're securing your first international customer or forming strategic partnerships. Use the table below to explore key markets, their industry strengths, and why they could be the ideal destination for your startup growth.
Filter by
| Country | Industries | Why expand here? |
|---|---|---|
| Singapore | FinTech | DeepTech | AI | Cybersecurity | Biotech | Strong VC and government funding support (Startup SG, EDB grants). Gateway to Southeast Asian markets. Corporate-friendly tax & IP protection. |
| India | AI & Data Science | HealthTech | Agritech | Clean Energy | EdTech | One of the world's fastest-growing digital economies. Large talent pool and cost-effective scaling. Government startup initiatives (Startup India, Digital India). |
| China | E-Commerce | AI | IoT | GreenTech | Biotech | Huge market demand & advanced manufacturing ecosystem. Strong investor networks (Tencent, Alibaba, Sequoia China). Access to government-backed startup hubs (Shanghai, Shenzhen, Beijing). |
| Japan | Robotics | AI | MedTech | FinTech | Smart Cities | World leader in automation & robotics - ideal for startups in AI, IoT & Industry 4.0. High-trust business culture - once established, long-term customer loyalty is strong. Government-backed startup incentives - J-Startup, NEDO grants, & Tokyo Metropolitan Accelerator. |
| South Korea | AI | Gaming | 5G & Connectivity | Cybersecurity | Green Energy | Top global player in AI & semiconductors (Samsung, SK Hynix). Massive government R&D funding for DeepTech & AI startups (over $3B+ in grants). Tech-savvy population with rapid adoption of digital-first solutions. |
- Country
- Singapore
- Industries
- FinTech | DeepTech | AI | Cybersecurity | Biotech
- Why expand here?
- Strong VC and government funding support (Startup SG, EDB grants). Gateway to Southeast Asian markets. Corporate-friendly tax & IP protection.
- Country
- India
- Industries
- AI & Data Science | HealthTech | Agritech | Clean Energy | EdTech
- Why expand here?
- One of the world's fastest-growing digital economies. Large talent pool and cost-effective scaling. Government startup initiatives (Startup India, Digital India).
- Country
- China
- Industries
- E-Commerce | AI | IoT | GreenTech | Biotech
- Why expand here?
- Huge market demand & advanced manufacturing ecosystem. Strong investor networks (Tencent, Alibaba, Sequoia China). Access to government-backed startup hubs (Shanghai, Shenzhen, Beijing).
- Country
- Japan
- Industries
- Robotics | AI | MedTech | FinTech | Smart Cities
- Why expand here?
- World leader in automation & robotics - ideal for startups in AI, IoT & Industry 4.0. High-trust business culture - once established, long-term customer loyalty is strong. Government-backed startup incentives - J-Startup, NEDO grants, & Tokyo Metropolitan Accelerator.
- Country
- South Korea
- Industries
- AI | Gaming | 5G & Connectivity | Cybersecurity | Green Energy
- Why expand here?
- Top global player in AI & semiconductors (Samsung, SK Hynix). Massive government R&D funding for DeepTech & AI startups (over $3B+ in grants). Tech-savvy population with rapid adoption of digital-first solutions.
Success stories
Since 2023, Landing Pads has helped 38 startups expand into over 15 countries, including major innovation hubs such as San Francisco, Singapore, London, and Shanghai. Hear their success stories below.
Next steps: Ready to apply?
2025 Applications open from 26 February – 5 December 2025 (rolling basis).
Please review the Landing Pads Applicant Information Guide, opens in a new window for eligibility & funding details.
Read more about the Landing Pads program and success, opens in a new window.
