Please tell us about the ATOMS 3.0 programme?
Accel Atoms is a community-based platform for startups to access funding, receive dedicated practical advice and coaching from top operators and founders. The journey from zero to one is the most challenging journey for any startup founder as it builds the foundation of the business. We help early-stage entrepreneurs build their foundational DNA. The Atoms program is Excel’s own startup and is constantly evolving to provide more value to founders. We launched ATOMS in 2021, and have since successfully completed two cohorts under the program. To date, we have invested in 24 companies across 2 groups, and these companies have raised a total of $160 million in funding. In our continued quest to remain relevant at the early stage, we launch Atoms 3.0 in a new avatar, Including insights and feedback from previous groups. ATOMS 3.0 comprises sector-focused groups for Artificial Intelligence and Industry 5.0. The idea behind thematic clusters is that companies targeting the same industry and similar stage of growth get to learn a lot from each other. The redesigned Atoms 3.0 program provides personalized learning for each selected startup, sector- Will offer exclusive advisors and investments of up to $500,000. Additionally, these startups will get access to Excel’s growing global community. We introduced sector-focused groups and a more personalized learning environment through closed groups with the aim of fostering innovation, creativity and collective growth among startups.
What is Industry 5.0?
Industry 5.0 represents a future where humans collaborate with smart manufacturing facilities promoting a carbon-neutral and energy-efficient industry. Over the past decade, manufacturers around the world have adopted industrial solutions, recognizing the unique efficiency it brings to their operations. We have already invested in companies working in this space and have seen significant growth since then. We believe the next decade of manufacturing will be driven by smart factories adopting artificial intelligence, robotics and other emerging digital solutions to their Will introduce a new level of nuance and sophistication in operation. The strong conditions powering manufacturing and the next wave of growth will be driven by technology and our mission is to empower the founders who are building that technology. We look forward to collaborating with the founders who are the driving force behind this paradigm shift. and together will shape the future of manufacturing. Accel aims to support startups operating in sectors such as manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, agri-tech and food-tech as these industries embrace the transformative power of Industry 5.0.
How is Industry 5.0 different from Industry 4.0?
Industry 4.0 primarily focuses on the digitalization of manufacturing and the use of technology to enhance industrial processes. It involves the adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and advanced analytics to improve efficiency, productivity and flexibility in manufacturing. On the other hand, Industry 5.0 aims to harness the creativity, flexibility and problem-solving of humans. The skills have to be integrated with the accuracy, efficiency and capabilities of smart machines. It highlights collaboration between humans and machines, placing greater emphasis on sustainability, optimization and human-centred design. Industry 5.0 focuses on increasing efficiency in all aspects of the value chain.
What is the selection process of Industry 5.0?
We’re looking for founders who are building the future of manufacturing. Big results can come from people working on the industrial shop floor, or companies focusing on improving the efficiency of machines. For our Atoms 3.0 group focusing on Industry 5.0, we are looking at India and Indonesia-based founders. Are excited to welcome applications from. The program will include a series of workshops, mentorship sessions and networking events designed to help startups validate their ideas, build their teams and raise capital. Our focus will be on investing in startups that fall under any of the following:
Industry 5.0
People: Making people work in industries more effective
Training Health & SafetyWorkflow Management
Processes: Creating Smarter Factories with Digitalization and AutomationMarkets
Technology Smart Procurement Solutions for Vendor Selection
AI led solutions for process improvement and efficiency
Machines: Making Machines More Intelligent
improving manufacturing efficiency
asset monitoring
smart maintenance solutions
How many companies will Excel take under Industry 5.0 group and what is the time frame of this group?
Each Atoms 3.0 cohort will consist of 4-5 companies to ensure that our focus is aligned with the needs of the selected startups. Applications for Industry 5.0 are open and eligible startups can apply for it through the Atoms website. Applications for the Industry 5.0 cohort will close on September 23, 2023 and the cohort will start on September 30, 2023. The total duration of the cohort will be between 4 to 6 months. For the first 3 months, we want the founders to focus on product-market-fit by spending a lot of time with their customers. In the meantime, we will continue to engage through sessions with senior industry leaders as well as mentorship sessions with founders from our existing Industry 5.0 portfolio.