Taiwan’s Tech Prowess on Global Display
Taiwanese startups have demonstrated strong performance on the international stage, securing one second prize and two third places at the recent SelectUSA Tech competition held in the U.S. state of Maryland. The Ministry of Economic Affairs announced the achievements on May 14, highlighting the innovative capabilities within Taiwan’s burgeoning tech sector. This showing underscores Taiwan’s growing influence and potential in the global technology landscape, particularly in emerging fields.
AI Breakthrough in Health Tech
Among the winning companies, Precise Big Data Co., Ltd. took home the second prize in the highly competitive health tech category. Their success was attributed to their pioneering use of generative artificial intelligence technology. This AI application allows for the completion of complex electrocardiogram analysis in a remarkably short timeframe of just four minutes. The technology is capable of identifying more than 20 different cardiovascular diseases and automatically generating a diagnostic report with a reported accuracy rate of 98 percent, showcasing a significant advancement in AI-driven medical diagnostics with potential for real-world impact in healthcare.
Dual Third-Place Wins in Open Tech
Two other Taiwanese firms garnered third-place finishes, both in the open tech category, demonstrating innovation across different domains. DeepRad.AI Inc. was recognized for its adoption of AI technology to analyze low-dose lung tomography images. This application provides innovative solutions aimed at enhancing health monitoring capabilities through advanced imaging analysis, potentially improving early detection methods. Alongside them, Tensor Tech Co., Ltd. also secured a third place for a breakthrough in the space industry. The company has successfully integrated three single-axis motors, typically used individually in space applications, into one compact three-axis spherical motor. This integration achieves a significant weight reduction of 80 percent compared to traditional setups, representing a notable advancement in aerospace component technology crucial for future space missions.
Strongest International Contingent
Taiwan’s participation in the SelectUSA Tech competition was particularly robust this year. A total of nine local startups competed against finalists drawn from around the world. According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Taiwan had the largest number of teams among all international competitors at the event, underscoring the nation’s strong representation in the global tech startup scene and its commitment to international engagement. The ministry further added that in addition to the top prize winners, six other Taiwanese startups were ranked among the top eight in various categories of the competition, indicating a broad base of competitive innovation across multiple technological areas.
Part of the High-Profile SelectUSA Summit
The competition itself was held as part of the larger SelectUSA Investment Summit, which took place from May 11 to 14. SelectUSA is an initiative launched in 2013 by the U.S. Department of Commerce and is recognized as the most high-profile event dedicated to promoting foreign direct investment into the United States. The Taiwan delegation attending the summit was a substantial group, led by Executive Yuan Secretary-General Kung Ming-hsin and Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei. The delegation was comprised of officials and representatives from 138 enterprises, reflecting a strong commitment to exploring international business and investment opportunities and fostering economic ties.
Minister Applauds Achievements and Global Ambitions
Minister Kuo Jyh-huei publicly applauded the achievements of the domestic startups at the event. He further expressed his hope that these startups would leverage Taiwan’s outstanding capabilities in technology and medical care to actively explore business opportunities and expand their presence in the global market. His comments emphasize the strategic importance of international engagement and the potential for Taiwanese innovation, particularly in key sectors like health tech and advanced manufacturing, to succeed on a worldwide scale and contribute to global progress.
Deepening US Connections Post-Summit
Following the conclusion of the SelectUSA Investment Summit, the Taiwanese delegation is scheduled to continue its activities in the United States, aiming to build on the momentum generated at the competition. The itinerary includes a tour of areas in California, specifically San Francisco and Silicon Valley, renowned global hubs for technology and venture capital. The delegation will also attend a Select LA/TW activity in Los Angeles.
These post-summit engagements are aimed at deepening connections with U.S. accelerators, advisors, and venture capital firms, fostering potential collaborations and investment pathways for Taiwanese startups in the American market. The strong showing at the SelectUSA Tech competition provides a solid foundation for these ongoing efforts to promote Taiwanese innovation internationally and attract foreign investment.
