In a commentary, SMU Professor of Communication & Technology and Vice President of Partnerships and Engagement Lim Sun Sun discussed how Asia is now well-positioned to not just be a consumer of deep tech breakthroughs, but a provider as well. She shared that SMU's recently concluded Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition, with its focus on technopreneurship, show that universities serve as vital conduits through start-up incubation. The 2023 edition of arguably the largest university start-up competition in the world attracted a record high of more than 1,000 entries from leading universities hailing from 77 countries. The competition brought together venture capitalists, experienced founders, corporate partners and policymakers in the innovation ecosystem to advise and mentor the start-ups. Prof Lim concluded by calling for governments to articulate clear road maps and critical challenges for deep tech development, and back them with sustained R&D funding and pro-innovation policies.