Can one person build the next startup? Penang launches AI incubator for solo founders

GEORGE TOWN, July 2 — Penang today launched an AI-powered one-person company incubator programme under Digital Penang to nurture solo creative technopreneurs.

State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the programme reflects the government’s push to encourage and facilitate the growth of digital startups, particularly by leveraging AI tools to enable leaner business models.

“With the advent of AI as a very powerful tool, it is now very possible to have what we call an OPC, one-person company,” he said during a press conference at Komtar today.

“In other words, it is a one-man show but basically, with AI as a tool, they can run everything for you,” he added, noting that feasibility would still depend on the nature of the business.

The initiative, called the Creative Creator AI One-Person Company (AI OPC) Incubator Programme, is designed to support individuals in building and operating digital startups as solo founders using AI systems.

Zairil said the programme aims to incubate and attract aspiring entrepreneurs interested in setting up AI-enabled ventures.

He cited an American OPC as an example of a successful one-person company that is set to go public soon.

Under the programme, participants will receive structured incubation support, including mentorship, access to AI tools, and guidance on developing ideas into market-ready digital products and intellectual property.

“We want Penang not only to consume digital content, but also to produce original IP that can compete globally,” Zairil said.

He added that while AI can significantly reduce the need for large teams in certain sectors, it would not eliminate jobs entirely but instead reshape work and create new opportunities.

“AI is just another technology, it can really empower small teams to do work that would previously require much more resources,” he said.

The pilot phase of the programme will select 20 participants, with applications open from July 1 to July 30.

Selected candidates will undergo a six-month residency programme before showcasing their outputs in a public “living lab” demonstration.

The incubator will initially focus on the digital creative industry, with plans to expand into other sectors in future phases.