Taiwanese smartphone and tablet maker HTC Corporation says it is launching Vive X, a global accelerator program targeted at start-ups operating in the virtual reality (VR) space, according to a company announcement.
With a US$100m investment fund led by HTC, the program is designed to help cultivate the global VR ecosystem by supporting start-ups and providing them with expertise, special access to advanced VR technology, financial investment,and go-to-market support.
"Virtual reality is changing the world, yet to do that effectively it needs a healthy ecosystem to expand into the mass market. Through HTC Vive, we look forward to enabling global talent to create interesting and compelling content and to help shape the future of this industry," says Cher Wang, chairwoman and CEO of HTC.
Starting in three cities including Beijing, Taipei and San Francisco, Vive X offers start-ups the opportunity to be based in one of those cities for an initial growth period, during which they will have access to funding, leading VR know-how, hands-on coaching, and office space.
In Beijing, Vive X will pilot in May 2016, when selected start-ups from around Asia will be invited to apply for the program, with the goal of enabling those companies to grow with the Vive platform.