TOP 10 Universities for Entrepreneurship in Asia‍

Asia is home to some of the world's leading universities in entrepreneurship education, fostering a new generation of innovators and business leaders. 

The following article highlights the best universities in Asia for entrepreneurship education, showcasing their significant contributions to research and their influence on the global entrepreneurial landscape. These institutions are ranked based on their exceptional research performance in entrepreneurship, as measured by the substantial impact of their academic publications. 

(Refer to : Asia's 100+ best Entrepreneurship universities [Rankings]) 

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1. National University of Singapore

• Location : Singapore
• Established in : 1980

The National University of Singapore (NUS) has grown into a comprehensive research university known for its strengths in engineering, business, computing, and sciences. The university aims to educate students, transform society through groundbreaking research, and provide entrepreneurial leadership that spurs economic growth and social development.

NUS Enterprise, the entrepreneurial arm of the university, plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. It supports startups and spin-offs through a comprehensive ecosystem that includes incubation programs, funding opportunities, mentorship, and access to a wide network of industry partners. 

Key initiatives include the NUS Venture Initiation Programme (VIP) to fund entrepreneurial pursuits of innovative ideas (“Projects”) by NUS students or Alumni with an award of up to S$10,000 for a 12-month term. 

Also, Startup SG Founder (SSGF) programme provides a platform for matching mentors to start-ups, as well as grant funding of $20,000 to $50,000 to first-time entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas by matching their fundraising efforts, dollar for dollar, up to a maximum of $50,000.

NUS's emphasis on entrepreneurship education and support for innovation positions it as a key driver of economic growth and technological advancement in the region. By producing highly skilled graduates, advancing cutting-edge research, and fostering a dynamic startup culture, NUS significantly impacts Singapore's venture ecosystem. 

(Refer to : NUS)

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2. University of Tehran

• Location : Tehran, Iran
• Established in : 1934

Renowned for its strong academic programs in engineering, sciences, humanities, and social sciences, The University of Tehran serves as a beacon of educational excellence and innovation. With a mission to advance knowledge and educate leaders who will contribute to the development and prosperity of society, the University of Tehran is dedicated to fostering intellectual growth and research prowess.

In recent years, the University of Tehran has become a significant player in the venture ecosystem, actively supporting startups and entrepreneurial ventures. 

Through its various centers and programs, the university offers a robust ecosystem that nurtures innovation and entrepreneurship. For example, The University of Tehran's Science and Technology Park provides comprehensive support for startups, including incubation services, mentorship, and access to funding. 

By producing highly skilled graduates and encouraging the commercialization of research, the university significantly contributes to the local and national startup landscape. Its initiatives and strategic partnerships with industry and international institutions ensure that the University of Tehran remains at the forefront of innovation, driving progress and creating opportunities for sustainable development.

(Refer to : Faculty of Management, University of Tehran) 

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3. Zhejiang University

• Location : Hangzhou, China
• Established in : 1897

Zhejiang University consistently ranks among the top universities in China and globally, known for its academic excellence, rigorous research programs, and a commitment to fostering innovation and societal development.

In the realm of entrepreneurship and venture development, Zhejiang University has established itself as a crucial player. For instance, the university's International Business School provides extensive support for startups through various incubation and boot camp programs. 

(Refer to : Zhejiang University School of Management) 

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4. Chinese University of Hong Kong

• Location : Hong Kong
• Established in : 1963

With its bilingual (Chinese and English) educational approach and strong emphasis on research and development, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) attracts students and scholars from across the globe, fostering a vibrant and diverse academic community.

CUHK plays a pivotal role in the venture ecosystem, actively supporting startups and entrepreneurial initiatives. 

The CUHK Centre for Entrepreneurship (CfE) and the CUHK InnoPort are key components of this ecosystem, providing resources such as incubation and acceleration programs, mentorship, and funding opportunities. These initiatives are designed to transform innovative ideas into successful businesses, leveraging CUHK's extensive network of industry partners and alumni to offer guidance and support. 

Additionally, the university's strong ties with Shenzhen and the Greater Bay Area create unique cross-border opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.

(Refer to : CUHK Business School) 

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5. Nanyang Technological University

• Location : Singapore
• Established in : 1991

Known for its strengths in engineering, business, science, and humanities, NTU is dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence and innovation, making significant contributions to education, research, and societal advancement. NTU’s vibrant campus and state-of-the-art facilities attract a diverse international community of students and scholars.

NTU has emerged as a critical hub in the venture ecosystem, offering substantial support to startups and entrepreneurial ventures. 

NTU Entrepreneurship Academy and the NTUitive provide comprehensive resources for budding entrepreneurs. These include incubation programs, mentorship from industry leaders, and community. These initiatives are designed to accelerate the growth of innovative ideas into market-ready solutions, leveraging NTU’s robust network of academic and industry connections.

The university's strong emphasis on entrepreneurship education and its commitment to innovation significantly further enhance NTU’s ability to support entrepreneurial success and sustainable development, positioning it as a leader in fostering a dynamic and resilient venture ecosystem.

(Refer to : Nanyang Technological University) 

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6. MARA University of Technology

• Location : Shah Alam, Malaysia
• Established in : 1956

MARA University of Technology (UiTM) is one of Malaysia’s leading institutions of higher education. The university's mission is to develop skilled professionals who can contribute significantly to national and global development. UiTM's extensive network of campuses across Malaysia ensures it serves a diverse student body, promoting inclusivity and academic excellence.

UiTM has become a crucial player in the venture ecosystem, offering substantial support to startups and entrepreneurial initiatives. For example, The university's Institute of Business Excellence (IBE) and Arshad Ayub Graduate Business School (AAGBS) provide specialized training, mentorship, and resources tailored for aspiring entrepreneurs. 

Furthermore, the UiTM-MTDC Technopreneur Centre offers incubation services, funding access, and networking opportunities with industry leaders. These initiatives aim to nurture innovative ideas and transform them into successful businesses, leveraging UiTM's extensive alumni and industry connections.

(Refer to : Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)) 

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7. University of Hong Kong

• Location : Hong Kong
• Established in : 1911

With its rich history and international outlook, The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is a vital player to provide extensive support for startups and entrepreneurial activities. 

The university's Innovation and Entrepreneurship Hub, iDendron, offers a dynamic platform for students and alumni to develop and incubate their innovative ideas. This includes access to co-working spaces, mentorship programs, and funding opportunities. 

Additionally, HKU's Technology Transfer Office (TTO) plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between academia and industry, facilitating the commercialization of research and technological innovations to drive economic growth and societal advancement.

By equipping students with entrepreneurial skills and supporting the translation of research into viable business ventures, HKU fosters economic development and technological progress. Its capacity to cultivate a thriving venture ecosystem, positioning it as a leader in promoting entrepreneurial success and sustainable development.

(Refer to : Techno-Entrepreneurship Core) 

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8. City University of Hong Kong

• Location : Hong Kong
• Established in : 1984

City University of Hong Kong (CityU) is a dynamic and rapidly growing institution with encouraging cross-cultural exchange and collaboration.

The university's Innovation Hub offers comprehensive resources for aspiring entrepreneurs, including incubation programs, mentorship from industry experts, and access to funding. 

The CityU Knowledge Transfer Office (KTO) plays a vital role in transforming research outcomes into practical applications, fostering collaborations between academia and industry to drive innovation and economic growth.

(Refer to : City University of Hong Kong) 

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9. Xi'an Jiaotong University

• Location : Xi'An, China
• Established in : 1896

Xi'an Jiaotong University (XJTU) provides a broad range of disciplines, including engineering, medicine, economics, management, arts, and social sciences. The university consistently ranks among the top universities in China and globally, recognized for its commitment to excellence in education, research, and societal development. 

The university’s Science and Technology Innovation Harbour (iHarbour) offers a platform for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. This includes access to state-of-the-art laboratories, incubation centers, mentorship programs, and funding opportunities. 

Additionally, XJTU's collaboration with the Xi'an High-tech Industries Development Zone offers significant support to early-stage companies, helping to bridge the gap between academic research and marketable products.

(Refer to : School of management, Xi'an Jiaotong University)

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10. Northern University of Malaysia

• Location : Sintok, Malaysia 
• Established in : 1984

Northern University of Malaysia (Universiti Utara Malaysia, UUM) is a prominent institution dedicated to management education and research. The university's mission is to produce graduates who are knowledgeable, competent, and ethical, with a strong emphasis on leadership and innovation. UUM's scenic campus and state-of-the-art facilities create an ideal environment for academic excellence and personal development.

The university’s strong focus on entrepreneurship and innovation significantly contributes to the local and regional economy. Through the efforts, UUM continues to shape the future of business and management education in Malaysia and beyond.

(Refer to : School of Business Management) 

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Written by ud.‍

*This article is co-written with ChatGPT and reviewed by the editor.‍