Taipei launches Innopad center for domestic and overseas startups

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taipei opened its startup center, Innopad Taipei, on Friday to support companies developing smart services, health technology, and environmental solutions, CNA reported.

Taipei Deputy Secretary-General Yu Chen-hua (俞振華) said AI has become an important force in business development and city management. He said Taipei has a strong technology industry, skilled workers, major company headquarters, and a well-developed startup support system.

Yu said the new center will help startup teams turn ideas into products and services. He added that the city government will continue helping startups through funding, talent development, and access to markets.

The city's economic development department said the center will focus on smart technology, health technology, and solutions that reduce pollution and carbon emissions. It will also provide business advice, product testing, connections with larger companies, and help with entering Taiwan’s market.

The center is working with four startup support organizations to provide professional guidance and business connections. About 60 startup teams from Taiwan and overseas are expected to join its programs, while 12 teams have already been approved to use the center, Economic Daily News reported.

The department said Innopad Taipei will expand cooperation with international partners and attract startups from around the world. It hopes to make Taipei a main gateway for overseas startups entering Taiwan and help domestic startups expand into global markets.