MACRI's New Year Party !

Uncle Bugs invited me to the MACRI New Year do at their office in Centrepoint Damansara, which was held this morning.

The program started at 10.30am. I was there at about 11.15am.

There were at least 30 plus people in the room. There were introductions and talks - in the usual MACRI style - open and informal.

I was then invited to say few words on GEW.

I spoke about last year's success - the number of partners and events and then went on to share my vision of reaching more people for the GEW'09.

I also announced the launch and urged everyone to get INVOLVED! I briefly shared how they can participate and also directed everyone to our site : www.gewmalaysia.com

After me, there were some other speakers, but one particular speaker truly impressed me.

He was none other than Keng Yew of Social Walk.

Keng Yew's company, Social Walk recently won the RM150k pre-seed fund from MDeC. Congrats to Keng Yew, his partners and the Company.

What really impressed me about his presentation was its simplicity and brevity. Keng Yew, from his physical appearance does not seem to have an ounce of unwanted fat ! His presentation too followed his physique - lean and effective ;-)

Keng Yew shared the lessons on applying for a grant. The 10 points he shared, (based on my notes) are:

When you apply for a grant:

1. Idea - Keep it Simple.

2. Application Form - write clearly, know what you want to say, and again keep it simple.

3. Revenue Model - have one. Show them the money.

4. Competitors - know who they are and your strategy. Don't say something silly like " we have no competitors".

5. Technology Innovation - remember MDeC and Cradle funds Technology !

6. Commercial Innovation - have a "go to market strategy" ;

7. Interview - Present your ideas in a simple language and keep it all brief. Follow the 3 2 1 strategy:
- 3 Sentences
- 2 Minutes
- 1 phrase they can easily repeat

8. Time and Pace yourself : you will have 10 mins to impress the interviewers who are savvy and sharp. Keep to time. Plan. Pace don't be a talking machine.

9. Letter of Support - give evidence of your potential customers if you have any. It helps.

10. Memorize a few key facts. Don't stumble. They will see through everything.

If you are thinking of applying for a grant, I personally think, following this advise will stand you in good stead.

Cheers