20-2-2025 – Layer 1 blockchain firm MANTRA has unveiled an innovative startup accelerator programme with backing from technology heavyweight Google Cloud, aimed at revolutionising how real-world assets are traded in the digital space.
The initiative, dubbed RWAccelerator, was announced during the Consensus Hong Kong conference and promises to deliver comprehensive support to emerging companies, including substantial funding, expert guidance, and cutting-edge AI technologies.
Speaking at the conference, Google Cloud’s Global Head of Web3 Strategy, Richard Widmann, emphasised the programme’s vision of creating seamless connections between traditional business and blockchain technology. “We’re establishing a crucial bridge between everyday commercial operations and the crypto sphere, particularly focusing on those outside the digital currency space,” Widmann explained.
The timing of this venture appears particularly strategic, with the World Economic Forum projecting that blockchain networks could house approximately 10% of global GDP—roughly £10 trillion—by 2027, with tokenized real-world assets playing a crucial role in this transformation.
The accelerator programme offers three distinct pathways for applicants: infrastructure development, tokenization solutions, and decentralised finance (DeFi) innovations. Successful candidates will receive substantial support from Google Cloud, including cloud computing credits and specialised technical assistance, alongside direct mentorship from Google’s engineering team.
MANTRA’s CEO, John Patrick Mullin, highlighted the programme’s significance: “We’re creating an unprecedented opportunity for startups to leverage advanced technology whilst accessing vital resources and mentorship. Through our collaboration with Google Cloud, we’re positioning these ventures to make substantial contributions to the Web3 ecosystem.”
The inaugural cohort’s application window remains open until 20th March 2025, with the programme set to commence in Dubai the following month. Notably, a second intake will begin accepting applications as soon as the first round concludes.
This development follows MANTRA’s recent milestone of securing a Virtual Asset Service Provider licence from Dubai’s regulatory authorities, enabling the company to offer comprehensive exchange and investment services in the region.
