HTC’s Vive X Accelerator Programme, a $100 million USD fund for investing in virtual reality (VR), has announced today that submissions have now reopened for developers.
The funding programme was first announced in April located in three cities – Beijing, Taipei and San Francisco. It received 1,200 applications with nearly three dozen companies currently in its portfolio, developing solutions in areas such as social, analytics, advertising, content generation tools, rendering, search, education and more. In August a fourth city was added, Shenzhen in China.
“VIVE X has quickly ramped up to be a global leader in accelerating early stage VR companies,” said Marc Metis, VP at HTC Vive and global head of the VIVE X program. “We are looking forward to serving the next round of innovative companies that can make a difference in the space.”
Not only do Vive X start-ups receive financial investment they also have the opportunity to work at the various locations, getting access to the latest VR technology as well as mentorship, networking and hands-on coaching from leading VR experts. Companies can also participate in VIVE X demo days, where they’ll have the chance to showcase their products to investors and additional partners.
“Becoming a part of the HTC Vive X program has been a transformative experience for ObEN,” said Nikhil Jain, co-founder and chief executive officer at ObEN. “The network, knowledge and resources the program provides has enabled our company to accelerate our progress on a number of crucial fronts, especially product development. ObEN is proud to partner with HTC as we work to bring our unique AI-based VR technology to the world.”
“Through Vive X, we were able to gain insights into the industry and form key relationships that would not have been possible otherwise. It has been an incredibly valuable resource for us,” said Norman Wang, Co-founder and CEO, Opaque Studios, an award-winning creator of VR apps for entertainment as well as scientific and medical use.
Vive X is accepting applications now through to 1st, December, 2016, head to the official website to apply. HTC has also said that as the programme expand locations in Europe will be coming soon.
For all the latest news on the HTC Vive X Accelerator Programme, keep reading VRFocus.