The Taipei Cycle Show, Asia’s premier bicycle trade event, is revving up for more than just showcasing the latest bikes and gear. This year, it’s transforming into a vibrant innovation hub with the launch of the “Bike Venture Zone,” a matchmaking area connecting promising startups with eager investors, organised in collaboration with funding platform Anchor Asia. The pitch session starts at 4pm on Day 2 of Taipei Cycle.
Elisa Chiu, CEO of Anchor Asia, believes that “cross-border and cross-industry collaboration is an ongoing trend, and the best companies will continue to search for top startups to invest into and work with. Taipei Cycle is the best place to take advantage of Taiwan’s industry heritage and tech prowess.”
Ten finalists, meticulously selected from nine countries, will vie for the attention of venture capitalists in a fast-paced pitch format. Their diverse ideas range from commercially available products like Pentalock‘s ingenious bottom bracket-integrated theft protection to transformative services like Bicycle Cluster‘s ambitious “Google for the bicycle supply chain.”
Riding the Innovation Wave
- British company Skarper promises to democratize e-mobility with its easy-to-install conversion kits, turning any bike into a pedal-assisted powerhouse.
- French innovator Velco targets e-bike manufacturers and suppliers, offering cutting-edge IoT solutions to optimize performance and connectivity.
- Swiss startup 9T Labs takes aim at the manufacturing process itself, leveraging its 3D printing technology to create lighter, stronger, and more customizable components.
Beyond Products: The Service Revolution
The “Bike Venture Zone” isn’t just about gadgets. Service providers are also vying for a piece of the action.
- German company Noca aims to streamline supply chain cooperation through digitalization, reducing the need for endless travel and paperwork.
- US-based Viewabo brings its remote visual assistance platform to the table, offering D2C companies a more efficient way to support customers and troubleshoot issues.
- Keego Mobility, a joint venture between Taiwan and Singapore, unveils its specialized e-bike solution for delivery fleets, promising lower costs and a smaller carbon footprint.
- Taiwanese startup Rybit joins the fray with its B2B e-bike fleet management platform, helping businesses optimize their operations and maximize efficiency.
- YAS, hailing from Hong Kong, rounds out the diverse group with its focus on mobility insurance and protection, providing peace of mind for riders and businesses alike.
A Shot at the Spotlight
On day two of Taipei Cycle, each startup will get their chance to shine, delivering their pitches in a captivating and concise format. The stakes are high. Success could catapult them into the spotlight, securing crucial funding and propelling them forward even amidst challenging market conditions.
This “Bike Venture Zone” experiment marks a bold move for the Taipei Cycle Show. It’s a testament to the industry’s commitment to innovation and a strategic move to position the event as a launchpad for the future of cycling. While the outcome remains to be seen, one thing is clear: the fusion of cutting-edge technology, entrepreneurial spirit, and investor muscle has the potential to spark a revolution on two wheels.
Beyond the Zone
The “Bike Venture Zone” is just one facet of the Taipei Cycle Show’s commitment to innovation. The event will also feature:
- Panel discussions with industry leaders exploring the latest trends and challenges.
- Workshops and seminars offering practical insights and skills for entrepreneurs and established businesses alike.
- Networking opportunities connecting startups with potential investors, partners, and mentors.
The Taipei Cycle Show is poised to become more than just a trade event. It’s transforming into a vibrant ecosystem where innovation thrives, ideas connect, and the future of cycling is shaped.
