Manulife – in collaboration with UpLink, the World Economic Forum’s early-stage innovation platform, and the World Economic Forum’s Centre for Financial and Monetary Systems – has announced the winners of its “Innovating for Asia’s Demographic Future Challenge.”
This initiative – part of a broader series focused on longevity – aims to address the evolving needs of Asia’s aging population by encouraging scalable solutions that support financial security, healthy aging, and lifelong engagement.
The challenge attracted more than 85 submissions from across the region. Ten ventures were selected for their potential to address the challenges associated with demographic shifts in Asia.
These organisations will receive access to UpLink’s global network, partnership opportunities, and increased visibility. In addition, three of the selected ventures will share a total prize of CA$200,000 to further develop their solutions.
The winning organisations represent a range of approaches to supporting older adults and their caregivers.
Solutions include digital tools for home safety, platforms for early cognitive screening, and technology that supports primary care and rehabilitation. Among the winners are:
Sarah Chapman, Manulife’s global chief sustainability officer, said the company is pleased to collaborate with UpLink on this initiative, which recognises start-ups working to address Asia’s demographic changes.
“These start-ups are helping people live better for longer, including addressing financial security, physical well-being, and personal fulfillment, and we’re proud to support their missions,” she said.
Asia’s population is aging rapidly, with projections indicating that one in four people in the region will be over 60 by 2050. This trend is attributed to longer life expectancy and lower birth rates, resulting in a shift away from traditional life stages.
Individuals are increasingly moving between education, employment, caregiving, and leisure throughout their lives.
Manulife’s Asia Care Survey indicated that physical health is closely linked to both financial and mental well-being. Rising healthcare costs are a significant concern for many, leading to increased anxiety about retirement savings.
The challenge was designed to address these issues by focusing on multigenerational financial resilience, equitable access to healthy aging, and lifelong fulfillment.
John Dutton, head of UpLink at the World Economic Forum, emphasised the importance of early-stage innovation in responding to Asia’s demographic changes.
“Through the Global Longevity Innovation Initiative, we are proud to partner with Manulife and the Forum’s Centre for Financial and Monetary Systems to build an innovation ecosystem that promotes healthier, more financially resilient and fulfilled lives for all generations,” he said.
The final phase of the longevity innovation series is scheduled for 2026, with a new thematic focus to be announced.
Manulife’s partnership with UpLink is part of its broader Impact Agenda, which seeks to promote sustained health, inclusive economic opportunity, and a sustainable future.
