Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has recently introduced an exciting new contender in the realm of social media – a platform named ‘Threads’. Demonstrating a staggering momentum, Threads has gathered over 60 million registered users in a scant two days since its release.

This extraordinary rate of adoption implies that Threads could potentially become a key influencer in the social media landscape.

Redefining social media landscape and empowering creative entrepreneurs

But what does this mean for ambitious entrepreneurs, small business owners, and freelancers, particularly those operating in creative industries?

Despite being in its early stages, Threads shows promising signs of becoming an effective platform for fast content sharing, encouraging informal dialogues, and increasing brand exposure. Notably, Threads doesn’t currently have a paid advertising feature, which implies that any endorsements or reposts about your business are likely to come across as genuine and authentic.

Adam Mosseri, the Head of Instagram, advocates that content shared on Threads should strive to inspire conversations and forge meaningful connections. This is a tremendous opportunity for businesses to engage with audiences on a more personal and impactful level. 

Adam Mosseri on Twitter

In essence, Threads is an oasis where posts that don’t quite align with your Instagram aesthetic can comfortably reside. Over the past few years, brands may have put in considerable effort to maintain consistency in their Instagram feed and stories.

Also Read: How to grow a global audience by leveraging social media

This commitment may have held them back from sharing organic, unfiltered content due to concerns about messing up the aesthetics of their feeds. However, Threads is set to revolutionise this aspect and encourage individuals or brands to post more freely and authentically!

Here are the current capabilities of Threads

• Post text (up to 500 characters)
• Share images and photos (up to 10)
• Share videos (up to 5 minutes)
• Include outbound links
• Create carousels
• Share .gifs (via the Giphy app)

However, do take note that Threads currently does not support the use of clickable hashtags or offer direct messaging capabilities. With Threads, businesses can swiftly generate content, foster casual dialogues, and secure authentic endorsements, all without the necessity of paid advertising.

It paves the way for sharing unfiltered content, offering a refreshing break from the constraints of meticulously curated aesthetics. As you adapt to the unique features of Threads, you can interact with your customers in novel and compelling ways.

Adapting to the unique opportunities each social media platform presents is crucial for businesses, and I am eager to see how Threads evolves and how it can revolutionise the dynamics of business-customer interactions in the digital landscape. This is a promising time for all businesses, so keep your spirits high and stay ready for new challenges and possibilities!

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In today’s rapidly changing landscape, education companies face unique challenges in accessing traditional sources of financing. As the macro environment experiences downturns in venture and debt capital, education entrepreneurs must explore alternative avenues to secure the necessary funding.

Macro downturn and the need for alternative financing

The education sector, like many others, is intricately tied to the ups and downs of the economy. Last year, global edutech investments dropped 80 per cent from Q1 2022 to Q1 2023. And when economic uncertainty looms, venture and debt capital can become scarce, leaving education companies in a challenging position to secure the necessary funds for growth and innovation.

In times like these, education entrepreneurs must seek out innovative financing solutions that can bridge the gap and ensure the continued progress of the sector.

This need for alternative financing is not unique to education, but it carries particular weight within the industry. Education plays a vital role in society, shaping future generations and driving societal progress. It is during challenging economic times that the importance of education is magnified as individuals seek to upskill, reskill, and invest in their own personal and professional development. 

This surge in demand for education puts additional strain on education companies to meet the needs of learners while grappling with the limitations of traditional financing options.

Also Read: Pure ideas with no executions to prove do not attract savvy investors: Shao-Ning Huang of AngelCentral

Counter-cyclical nature of education

One key advantage of the education industry is its counter-cyclical nature, which sets it apart from many other sectors. While economic conditions may fluctuate, the demand for education remains consistently high.

In fact, during times of economic downturn, individuals often prioritise upskilling, reskilling, or pursuing further education as a means to enhance their employability and navigate the challenging job market. This surge in student demand presents a unique opportunity for education companies to tap into new markets and cater to the growing needs of learners.

Moreover, the surge in student demand during economic downturns presents an opportunity for education companies to expand their offerings and meet the evolving needs of learners. By embracing new technology and innovative learning models, education companies can deliver personalised and adaptive learning experiences that resonate with students.

This includes leveraging AI and machine learning to enhance content delivery, incorporating gamification elements to boost engagement, and harnessing data analytics to gain valuable insights into student performance and preferences. 

The combination of crypto-enabled financing and innovative educational approaches positions education companies at the forefront of change, ensuring their relevance and competitiveness in an ever-evolving landscape.

Emerging economies and the education boom

Emerging economies, including Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia, are witnessing a remarkable boom in the demand for quality education. As middle-class populations rise and the importance of education becomes increasingly recognised, these regions offer a fertile ground for education companies to thrive.

However, one of the key obstacles faced by entrepreneurs in these markets is the limited access to traditional financing options. Local financial systems may be underdeveloped or lack the necessary infrastructure to support the growth and innovation of education companies.

Also Read: New research report: The nexus between elite university education and startup funding

By leveraging the decentralised and borderless nature of cryptocurrency, education entrepreneurs in emerging economies can unlock new avenues for financing their ventures. Cryptocurrency provides a democratised and inclusive financial ecosystem, allowing entrepreneurs to raise capital from a global pool of investors without the traditional barriers associated with geographical limitations or stringent regulatory requirements.

Unconventional paths forward

Partnerships like Open Campus, an education protocol supported by Animoca, Binance, GEMs Education and others, represent a transformative step in addressing the challenges of traditional financing in the education sector.

Moreover, crypto-based financing models offer greater accessibility and transparency, bypassing the need for complex and often restrictive financial intermediaries. This opens up opportunities for education companies to directly connect with investors, showcase their vision and impact, and secure the necessary funding to fuel their growth. 

By embracing cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, education companies can tap into global investors, access new funding sources, and drive the growth and impact of their initiatives. With the support of industry leaders and the application of innovative financing models, the education sector can foster collaboration, drive innovation, and ensure the availability of quality education for all.

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Southeast Asia’s tech startups attracted 71 per cent less funding in the first half (January-June) of 2023 compared to the same period last year, as per the latest report released by market intelligence platform Tracxn.

The decline was primarily driven by a 72 per cent drop in late-stage investments, Tracxn said in its SEA Tech Semi-Annual Funding Report.

Funding into the tech space in H1 2023 dropped to US$2.3 billion from US$8 billion in H1 2022 (US$1.15 in Q1 2023 and US$1.17 billion in Q2). The US$100 million+ funding rounds also dropped to six in H1 2023 from 18 in the same period last year.

H1 2023 is the least funded half-year since 2020. After a peak in 2021, there has been a steady decline; investments fell by 39 per cent in 2022 from 2021, primarily due to the rising interest rates and the current macroeconomic environment.

Also Read: eFishery banks US$200M, targets to engage 1M+ aquaculture ponds by 2025

Fintech, enterprise applications, and retail were the top-performing segments in H1 2023. However, these segments witnessed a drop in funding in 2023 compared to H2 2022.

The fintech sector raised US$926 million in H1 2023, contributing almost 40 per cent of the funds raised by the SEA tech startup ecosystem during this period.

Two segments which observed upticks in funding are auto-tech and insurtech. Auto-tech funding grew from US$23.6 million in H2 2022 to US$317 million in H1 2023, while insurtech rose from US$98.7 million to US$262 million.

Only one company, eFishery, entered the unicorn club in H1 2023, compared with six new unicorns in H1 2022.

As for acquisitions, H1 2023 saw 29 deals compared to 43 in H2 2022 and 69 in H1 2022. Five companies from this space went public in H1 2023 as against just one in H1 2022.

In the SEA region, Singapore, Jakarta, and Petaling Jaya were the top-funded cities in H1 2023. Companies in Singapore attracted investments worth US$1.2 billion, while those in Jakarta and Petaling Jaya raised US$378 million and US$202 million, respectively.

East Ventures, SEEDS Capital, and Y Combinator were the most active investors in the SEA tech space in H1 2023. Y Combinator, East Ventures, and 500 Global were the top seed investors, while Gobi Partners, SMDV, and Peak XV Partners were the top early-stage investors.

In terms of late-stage investments, SoftBank, Avataar Ventures, and Prosperity7 Ventures were the top late-stage investors.

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Copyright: dragonimages

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CreativesAtWork was founded in 2012 by a pair of sisters – Jayce and Fanny Tham – who were driven by their aspirations to give creative talents a platform to showcase their work and to provide every freelancer in Asia the opportunity to gain greater control of their career paths.

“We started CreativesAtWork with the intention of helping our friends find jobs. Since then, our vision has grown. We want to help talented individuals find their rightful position in the world and assist them in scaling their businesses to reach the global stage. It is time for Asian talents to shine!”

An unwavering belief in freelancing as a way of life

In the beginning, the Tham sisters faced numerous uncertainties. The 2010s were a time of disruption, where emerging ideas and technologies had the potential to disrupt or transform how people work, live, and engage in leisure activities. The pragmatic Singaporeans in them were prepared to return to corporate life if their endeavour did not prevail.

However, anecdotes of freelancers, who gave up their passions in exchange for unfulfilling jobs to make ends meet, constantly weighed on Jayce’s mind. This gave her the impetus to persevere through challenges and redefine CreativesAtWork to help freelancers transform their passions into profitable ventures.

The duo’s unwavering belief in freelancing as a way of life, alongside the accomplishments of their network of dedicated freelancers, propelled CreativesAtWork to success. Since then, they have never looked back.

The power of collaboration

In the first decade of business, the Tham sisters dedicated their efforts to securing employment opportunities for freelancers. However, their focus has since shifted towards empowering freelancers to establish and expand their own businesses instead.

“One plus one need not always equal two. When freelancers combine their expertise, knowledge, and experience, they can create three, four, or even 10 times the impact.”

With the conviction that freelancers can achieve greater outcomes when they combine their expertise, CreativesAtWork launched Freelancer Nation in 2023 to provide a physical space for freelancers to collaborate and stay updated on trends, mentorship opportunities, and production facilities.

Also Read: Is Singapore 5G ready?

Additionally, the company shifted its Freelancing Bootcamp to an e-Learning portal to enhance access to resources for freelancers from other industries. Through these initiatives, the sisters aimed to foster a strong community of freelancers and establish networks that maximise business potential for them.

Training and development

Deepening Jayce and Fanny’s belief in supporting the freelance community to reach their full potential, CreativesAtWork collaborated with government agencies to shape the future of the workforce by participating in workgroups and citizen panel discussions. It also helped to professionalise the industry through training opportunities, especially when there was not much support for freelancers.

In May 2023, CreativesAtWork partnered with Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy to organise a five-day training session, named Digital Skills for Own-Account Workers Workshop, to empower participants with the essential digital skills needed to keep up with technology trends.

To provide funding support for freelancers, the company introduced BRIDGE to bring creative storytelling to life through collaboration with local businesses. Over 200 freelancers participated in the initiative and gained additional skillsets to advance their careers. A total of 30 local companies also benefitted from the services provided by these freelancers.

Embracing the future of the workforce

“In today’s competitive hiring landscape, it is crucial to recognise the value of freelancers. Gone are the days of chasing academic qualifications and seeking lifelong employment because traditional norms have shifted. Talented individuals are no longer limited to traditional employment opportunities but are exploring alternative paths like freelancing.”

In Jayce’s view, the traditional norms for work have shifted, and many individuals are increasingly looking for alternative career paths, such as freelancing. This will have a significant impact on businesses across other industries because hiring policies and practices will be affected by the shift. Hence, it will be beneficial for companies to consider freelancers as part of their hiring strategy.

In the next five years, Jayce also anticipates the following developments in the creative industry:

• Increase in demand for digital and virtual experiences: The pandemic propelled the adoption of digital and virtual experiences. Freelancers will increasingly be expected to create immersive and engaging digital experiences for clients.
• Integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning: AI and machine learning are progressively integrated into content creation and marketing, shaping the creative process. As such, freelancers must stay informed about technology trends to keep pace with the dynamic business environment. Similarly, businesses in other industries can apply the same principle to adapt to the evolving business landscape. By keeping up with relevant advancements, companies can improve efficiency to meet customers’ needs.
• Greater emphasis on sustainability: As consumers grow more environmentally conscious, there is rising pressure on businesses to adopt sustainable practices. Hence, freelancers may need to assist clients in developing environmentally responsible messaging and campaigns to contribute positively to the environment.
• Continued growth of remote work: The global health crisis accelerated the growth of remote work, and this trend is expected to continue. Although remote working is not new to freelancers, embracing remote work and investing in the right tools – to support a remote workforce – are values that freelancers can help their clients with.

Key takeaways from her entrepreneurship journey

“Running a business is a challenging endeavour, and there is not a single set of parameters that can guarantee success. It is a combination of various qualities, skills, and life experiences that contribute to becoming a successful leader.”

Jayce believes there are many factors that contribute to the success of a business leader. The following are some leadership principles that she holds dear:

Building the right teams

Hiring passionate individuals in suitable roles is paramount for business success. Hence, it is crucial to assemble the right team of talents who align with a company’s vision and values.

In the early days of CreativesAtWork, being relatively new to the industry, the Tham sisters placed their trust in freelancers to complete a video project for a prominent client. They were unaware of the freelancers’ unprofessionalism, and unbeknownst to them, the freelancers took shortcuts, resulting in a failure to deliver satisfactory work.

Consequently, Jayce and Fanny had to salvage the project on their own and faced the challenge of managing a dissatisfied client. Thus, they decided to bring in a new team of freelancers and worked hard to turn the situation around.

Also Read: Rewriting the creation process of ad creatives using generative AI

This incident prompted the duo to adopt a more rigorous approach to future onboarding and selection of freelancers. They recognised that regardless of how impressive a freelancer’s portfolio was, their attitude and professionalism should be given equal consideration in determining whether they should be engaged for collaboration.

Developing strong interpersonal skills and personal branding

While Jayce’s team members manage the day-to-day operations of CreativesAtWork, she is focused on cultivating trust and nurturing long-term partnerships with clients. To achieve this, she emphasised the importance of possessing strong interpersonal skills and maintaining a personal brand founded on integrity and reliability.

Jayce vividly recalled an incident when a client had to contact her because a previous agency failed to deliver satisfactory work. Consequently, the client reached out to CreativesAtWork for assistance.

Patchwork projects can be challenging and risky, but this incident showed the trust that clients have in CreativesAtWork. This trust ensures that clients will turn to the team at CreativesAtWork whenever assistance is required.

Staying resilient

When things go awry, it is important for business leaders to stay true to themselves, have faith in their abilities, and trust the process. Jayce reminds herself that there is a purpose behind everything and advises aspiring entrepreneurs to be grateful for these experiences, whether they occur sooner or later.

She is also of the view that business leaders should actively encourage resilience among their team members and view failures as learning opportunities to foster a culture of growth mindset in the company. “By prioritising these principles, a business leader can create a positive work environment that attracts top talent, fosters productivity, and drives long-term success,” she explained.

Maintaining an open mind about technology adoption

Jayce advises aspiring entrepreneurs to adopt digital tools to streamline workflow and enhance productivity in business. She added that technology has improved accuracy, communication, and data analysis at CreativesAtWork, freeing up time for her to focus on strategic initiatives to grow the company.

Stakeholders of CreativesAtWork are also encouraged to participate in its innovation journey. For instance, the company organised Thriving Singapore, an immersive virtual exhibition and a series of online workshops which gathered local artists to display their work and brought the freelancer community together to explore Singapore’s culture.

It also launched STOREYS, a storytelling movement which harnessed the power of video and social media to shed light on issues that matter to Singaporeans. Presently, CreativesAtWork is building its first AI-powered application platform, EXECUTE, which can provide clients with round-the-clock access to a talented pool of freelancers.

Enhancing capabilities by tapping on government support

While running a business can be challenging, there are funding and support programmes by various government agencies which are available to a wide range of companies in Singapore. Entrepreneurs are resourceful, and Jayce is no different. She knew of some support programmes and utilised those that were relevant to CreativesAtWork.

Enterprise development grant

Jayce encourages aspiring business leaders to explore and tap into government resources, such as the Enterprise Development Grant, which supports projects that help companies upgrade, innovate, grow, and transform.

Market readiness assistant grant

CreativesAtWork is in the midst of expansion, with its first global office in the United States. Jayce applied for the Market Readiness Assistance Grant, which helped CreativesAtWork in its international expansion by defraying the costs of overseas market promotion, business development, and set-up.

The United States is CreativesAtWork’s first overseas office as the country is home to the world’s largest economy with an abundance of market opportunities. By establishing a presence in the United States, CreativesAtWork can gain access to a wide customer base, opening new streams of revenue.

In addition, freelancers at CreativesAtWork will get the chance to gain hands-on experience by working on international projects, enhancing their skills and broadening their professional horizons on the global stage.

This is a multi-part business profile series by IndSights Research featuring accomplished business leaders from different industries in Singapore. Through this initiative, we hope to encourage business leaders to implement best practices in their companies to promote growth and development.

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Indonesia-based KarirLab today announced that it has secured an undisclosed pre-seed funding round led by Alpha JWC Ventures and M Venture Partners.

In a press statement, the company said that the funding round will enable KarirLab to accelerate its product development, expand its team, and establish strategic partnerships with leading universities and employers.

The funding will also fuel KarirLab’s platform enhancement, ensuring seamless student and employer experience to cater to the evolving needs of the job market.

“With this pre-seed round, KarirLab is positioned to fulfil our potential in partnering with universities and employers at scale. We are excited to empower the next generation of young professionals and revolutionise career services and management in Indonesia to propel more quality graduates and career opportunities,” said Tessa Saraswati, Co-Founder and CEO of KarirLab.

KarirLab is an online platform that connects students and campuses with hiring employers.

Also Read: A paradigm shift needed: Hiring within the tech startup ecosystem

The company is founded by Tessa Saraswati, Stephanus Wicardo, and William Surya Wijaya, who collectively believes that every student of every background should have access and resources to help them build a solid foundation in navigating the job market, such as having an effective resume and professional branding, as early as possible.

It bridges the gap between the students, universities, and employers ecosystem by providing a comprehensive and streamlined career development and management platform.

Its products include individual profile evaluation, an ATS-friendly resume builder, a curated job vacancy portal, and talent management services.

KarirLab said that, as of the first half of 2023, it has clocked in hundreds of thousands of users and has posted thousands of jobs from hundreds of different organisations across Indonesia.

It has hosted live and virtual career events in collaboration with universities with more than 20,000 participating students combined.

The startup was incubated at Yale University in 2021 and is an active supporter of Indonesia’s Ministry of Education & Culture’s Kampus Merdeka and the Ministry of Manpower’s TalentHub programme.

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Image Credit: KarirLab

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The entrepreneurship journey may have its challenges, but being a woman only adds to the strength and resilience that is needed to succeed, compared to a man who faces the same journey. One major unseen obstacle for women entrepreneurs is the difficulty in accessing funding and capital compared to their male counterparts.

According to research that focuses on the entrepreneurial challenges faced by Malaysian women entrepreneurs, it has been shown that women-owned businesses receive significantly less venture capital investment and have more challenges securing loans from financial institutions.

Funding challenges for women entrepreneurs

I have heard from friends that women in their careers have to actively seek out alternative funding options, such as crowdfunding platforms, angel investors, or women-focused investment networks during the earlier stages of establishing their businesses, as more confidence and trust are given to men. 

However, it’s safe to say that that ship sailed fairly quickly as more companies and agencies are promoting financial literacy and entrepreneurship education can also empower women to navigate the funding landscape more effectively.

Just as it is with snowflakes and fingerprints, no two experiences are the same. Although some aspects may be mainly similar, there may also be little details in a certain situation that changes the difficulty level of addressing those challenges and how to overcome them.

Also Read: #She27: Celebrating 27 women shaping the future of tech

One of the most significant obstacles is the lack of gender diversity in any male-dominated industry, such as technology, manufacturing, construction and the like. Women entrepreneurs often face gender bias and stereotyping, which can manifest as doubts about their abilities, scepticism about their business ideas, or even discriminatory treatment in the business world.

Not only can gender stereotyping bring a significant negative impact on entrepreneurial success, but it will also make it difficult for women to find mentors and role models who can provide guidance and support. 

Empowering women entrepreneurs

This is exactly the reason why I believe that overcoming this obstacle requires women in their careers to challenge societal expectations and stereotypes, advocate for themselves, and build strong professional networks.

By showcasing their skills, expertise, and successes, women entrepreneurs can challenge biases and change perceptions. Collaborating with other women in business and supporting each other’s ventures can also create a more inclusive and empowering environment.

While I have always been in the human resource field during the majority of my career, I have met other female colleagues and friends that managed to excel in fields that were dominated by men and ended up pushing the business to new heights – they are proven to be strong enough to face the challenges and obstacles that come up.

But it is also mind-blogging to know how underrepresented women are in the industry as well as the number of female executives occupying the board seats, which are just 20 per cent of board seats globally. It also doesn’t help that our education system is so broken that it doesn’t equip us with knowledge in entrepreneurship or leadership.

The same research has also shown that women in careers are juggling multi-roles and face work-family conflict with the burden of heavy household chores and childcare, which can majorly affect one’s career. Balancing work and personal life is an ongoing challenge for women entrepreneurs, particularly due to societal expectations and traditional gender roles.

In fact, with the proper channels and support, the success of women-led businesses plays an important role in the economic development of the country. In 2019, women entrepreneurs contributed 20.6 per cent of total offline and online SME businesses in Malaysia.

Also Read: Breaking gender barriers in the metaverse: Women pioneering emerging tech

And based on a report by the International Finance Corp (IFC), the sales of female e-commerce businesses could potentially add approximately US$280 billion in the Southeast Asian market between 2025 and 2023. 

Hence why I personally believe that everyone (women or men) need to understand that it is essential to delegate tasks, seek support from family and friends, and build a support system that understands and respects their ambitions. Embracing flexibility, both in terms of work hours and work arrangements, can also help women achieve a better work-life balance.

In short, the scenarios that I have observed throughout my career have taught me that some of the biggest challenges that a woman entrepreneur can face are sometimes caused by themselves. It is best to fix this hurdle by facing it by digging deep and identifying the source of those insecurities.

By acknowledging and addressing these unseen obstacles and supporting other women’s businesses and journeys, women in their careers can empower themselves and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for aspiring women entrepreneurs.

Ultimately, being confident in oneself and believing that we are well and capable of achieving our own goals is key to success, regardless of gender.

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Indonesia-based agritech firm Eratani has secured US$2 million in a seed extension round from SBI Ven Capital, Genting Ventures, Orvel Ventures, and Ascend Angels.

This deal brings the total seed funding to US$5.8 million.

The new investment comes about half a year after Eratani raised US$3.8 million from TNB Aura, Trihill Capital, BIG Ventures, and AgFunder.

Eratani CEO Andrew Soeherman said: “We are committed to continuing our work in empowering farmers, increasing efficiencies, and fostering business sustainability within the agricultural sector.”

Also Read: eFishery banks US$200M, targets to engage 1M+ aquaculture ponds by 2025

Established in 2021, Eratani integrates technology into farming operations to improve efficiency, drive sustainability, and foster growth in the country’s agricultural industry. Its solutions comprise farmer funding, supply chain management, crop distribution, and agricultural assistance. The firm claims it supports a network of 20,000 rice farmers across West Java, Central Java, East Java, Banten, and South Sulawesi.

Although it contributes about 13 per cent to the GDP and employs nearly 29 per cent of its workforce, Indonesia’s agricultural sector faces significant inefficiencies. Poor logistics and a surplus of middlemen result in high costs and reduced profit margins for farmers, particularly in rice farming, which involves about 17 million households. Eratani’s innovative solutions aim to streamline this sector, making it more efficient and fair, ensuring farmers directly benefit from their work.

“We firmly believe in the immense potential of Indonesia’s agritech sector, and Eratani is perfectly positioned to capitalize on this,” said Ryosuke Hayashi, Chief Executive Officer of SBI Ven Capital.
“Their holistic approach and innovative solutions are not only streamlining agricultural processes but also creating social impact for farmers,

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At e27, we are committed to nurturing thought leadership and offering a platform for talented individuals to showcase their expertise and distinct perspectives. Through our Contributor Programme, we provide a channel for passionate voices to contribute to the dynamic conversation surrounding entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation.

We are excited to present our weekly compilation of articles published through our Contributor Programme. This carefully curated collection brings together a rich array of diverse and insightful perspectives from our community, offering a fresh and thought-provoking exploration of emerging trends, industry insights, and cutting-edge ideas.

PS: We are thrilled to announce that we will be hosting an all-exclusive virtual meet for our esteemed contributors this week, with the primary aim of providing a dynamic and interactive platform where you can actively participate, share your valuable experiences, insights, and suggestions, and collectively contribute towards further enhancing the contributor journey. If you would like to be a part of this exciting opportunity, kindly reach out to me for more details and registration.

Singapore, Berlin and Dubai: Unveiling the unique fabric of global startup ecosystems

“The global startup landscape is teeming with opportunities, and with the right combination of ambition, resilience, and strategic decision-making, your startup can thrive and make a difference no matter where you choose to call home.”

Board Member at Edelkapital AG, Co-Founder and CMO at MyHelpBuddy, Duke Tam’s byline explores the distinct characteristics of startup ecosystems in Singapore, Berlin, and Dubai, highlighting the unique fabric that defines each global hub. It delves into the key elements that contribute to their success, including government support, access to capital, talent pool, and cultural factors, while providing valuable insights into the dynamics of these ecosystems and the opportunities they offer for startups and entrepreneurs.

Crypto trends of 2024: My predictions and disruptions

“Embracing the disruptions brought about by artificial intelligence, CBDCs, decentralised governance, and other emerging trends will be essential for individuals and businesses to thrive in an ever-changing world. By leveraging these transformative forces, we can unlock new opportunities, reshape traditional models, and shape a future that is both innovative and inclusive. The crypto industry is poised for continued growth and evolution, and those who adapt and embrace these trends will be at the forefront of this transformative journey.”

Best-Selling Book Author “NFT From Zero to Hero” and Intergovernmental Blockchain Adviser, Anndy Lian’s byline presents predictions and insights into the crypto trends of 2024, offering a glimpse into the potential disruptions and advancements that may shape the industry. It explores emerging technologies, regulatory developments, market trends, and the evolving role of cryptocurrencies.

Exposing the dark secrets of cloud visibility: Is your business at risk?

“Cloud monitoring systems eliminate the need to use new tools for troubleshooting and include interactive workflows, alerts, reports, and more. They improve cloud data flow to provide a better picture of overall traffic flows and can also provide performance metrics. Cloud monitoring systems hold a vast amount of solutions and tools within one platform, making them a good investment.”

Founder of NowSourcing, Brian Wallace’s byline sheds light on the hidden risks and challenges associated with cloud visibility, highlighting potential vulnerabilities that businesses may face. It probes into the importance of having transparent and comprehensive visibility into cloud operations and the potential consequences of limited visibility.

Singapore firm empowers freelancers in Asia to transform passions into profitable ventures

“In today’s competitive hiring landscape, it is crucial to recognise the value of freelancers. Gone are the days of chasing academic qualifications and seeking lifelong employment because traditional norms have shifted. Talented individuals are no longer limited to traditional employment opportunities but are exploring alternative paths like freelancing.”

Engagement Executive at IndSights Research, Syuhada Subuki’s article showcases a Singapore-based firm — CreativesAtWork — that is empowering freelancers in Asia to transform their passions into profitable ventures. It highlights the challenges faced by freelancers in the region and the innovative solutions offered by the firm to support their entrepreneurial journeys.

Breaking barriers: Hidden hurdles faced by women entrepreneurs

“The scenarios that I have observed throughout my career have taught me that some of the biggest challenges that a woman entrepreneur can face are sometimes caused by themselves. It is best to fix this hurdle by facing it by digging deep and identifying the source of those insecurities.”

Founder of VV Consulting Group, Vaishana Vasuthavan’s byline sheds light on the hidden hurdles faced by women entrepreneurs and the barriers they must overcome in their entrepreneurial journeys. It highlights the gender disparities and biases that exist within the startup ecosystem and the unique challenges faced by women in accessing funding, mentorship, and support networks.

Myths vs reality: Remote and hybrid managers report high productivity and trust

“A new survey we conducted reveals how managers of hybrid and remote teams do so with much more ease, enjoyment, and outstanding productivity than other media has us believe.”

CEO of FlexOS, Daan van Rossum’s article challenges common myths surrounding remote and hybrid management, providing insights and data that support the reality of high productivity and trust in these work arrangements. It addresses misconceptions about the effectiveness of remote and hybrid teams, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, trust-building, and effective management strategies.

7 reasons every entrepreneur should be proud of themselves

“But we Founders are unique, aren’t we? We tend to be a little delusional, just the slightest bit illogical. And that’s invaluable. Those who look the longest never leap. Founders look and leap, hoping against all hope that they shall win this battle against gravity. And you know what, sometimes they do.”

Co-Founder and CEO of FlexiBees, Shreya Prakash’s article celebrates the achievements and resilience of entrepreneurs and founders, providing seven compelling reasons why they should take pride in their journey. It highlights the courage to pursue their dreams, the ability to create opportunities, and the impact they make on the economy and society.

Future-proofing businesses and talent through technology

“Lessons from past downturns have taught us that the route to success comes not from brutal cuts but from growth via efficiency. While deep uncertainty remains, Asia as a region has exhibited resilience in the face of this extraordinary shock, providing a multitude of opportunities for companies aspiring to transform, expand, and scale.”

Founder and CEO of Atlas, Rick Hammell’s article explores the concept of future-proofing businesses and talent through the adoption of technology. It highlights the rapid pace of technological advancements and the need for businesses to embrace innovation to stay competitive.

Rethinking wastewater treatment to support Singapore’s ambitious water goals

“With climate change and geopolitical uncertainties, achieving greater water self-sufficiency becomes imperative. The tiny city-state targeting world dominance has been focused on the self-sufficiency of water and has been regarded as a poster child for effective wastewater management over the years.”

Founder and CEO of Hydroleap, Mohammad Sherafatmand’s byline delves into the topic of rethinking wastewater treatment to support Singapore’s ambitious water goals. It highlights the importance of water sustainability and the challenges faced by Singapore in managing its water resources while discussing innovative approaches and technologies being employed to improve wastewater treatment efficiency and reduce water wastage.

Exploring the game-changing role of AI in online courses

“AI has the potential to transform the way we learn online, making it more personalised, interactive, and adaptive to individual needs and learning styles. In this article, we will delve into how AI is going to change many industries, including professional online learning, and the potential benefits and challenges that come with it.”

PR Intern at Byte-Sized AI, Shane Duggan’s article explores the game-changing role of AI in online courses. It discusses how AI technology is revolutionising the education industry by enabling personalized learning experiences, intelligent content delivery, and automated assessments. By leveraging AI in online courses, educators can unlock new possibilities and create more effective and adaptive learning environments for students.

Decoding startup journey: Top 5 challenges entrepreneurs encounter

“Startups must overcome many obstacles in order to succeed, and failing to do so could be disastrous. Therefore, it’s a good idea to enter the ring prepared with a solid understanding of how to handle these issues.”

Founder and CEO at Converco, Moch Akbar Azzihad M’s article decodes the startup journey and highlights the top five challenges faced by entrepreneurs. It examines into the common hurdles and obstacles that startups encounter, such as funding constraints, market competition, talent acquisition, scalability, and maintaining a sustainable business model.

How to embrace optimal efficiency in the future of work

“It is crucial to look into the employees’ experience and performance based on the current technology that buoys the workforce and creates a technical blueprint that can elevate the hybrid work experience for all. Consequently, selecting the right technology partner becomes one of the most critical business decisions you will face to successfully execute your hybrid workplace modernisation.”

Managing Director at Kyndryl (ASEAN), Susan Follis’s byline explores the concept of embracing optimal efficiency in the future of work. It investigates into the evolving landscape of work and highlights the importance of efficiency in maximizing productivity and achieving success.

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Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic

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The Voluntary Carbon Markets Integrity Initiative (VCMI) is an international non-profit organisation with a mission to enable high-integrity voluntary carbon markets (VCMs). In case you are not familiar with it, VCM is a concept that allows carbon emitters to offset their emissions by purchasing carbon credits emitted by projects targeted at removing or reducing greenhouse gas from the atmosphere, according to an explanation by the European Energy Exchange (EEX).

In late June, the organisation published a Claims Code of Practice, which will give companies a rulebook to follow for making credible climate claims.

As awareness of the importance of decarbonisation continues to increase among global business players, there is an urgency to have a guide that can help businesses in making their claims. This Claims Code clarifies the complex landscape of VCMs by providing companies with a rulebook for high-integrity voluntary use of carbon credits and associated claims.

“The voluntary carbon market is one tool that can mobilise the much-needed finance to low and middle-income countries towards climate solutions that will accelerate the net-zero transition. It’s not too late to drive progress, and the VCMI Claims Code released today is a welcome step forward,” says Razan Al Mubarak, UN Climate Change High-Level Champion for COP28, during the launch of the initiative.

But what benefits can tech startups get from this initiative, and how can they make use of this opportunity? Raffaella Infanti, Engagement Manager at VCMI, gives e27 all the details in an email interview. The following is an edited excerpt of the interview.

Also Read: The Radical Fund hits first close of US$40M climate tech fund, targets early stage SEA startups

Can you tell us more about the process of developing the Claims Code?

The Claims Code is the culmination of over 12 months of road testing by companies, public consultations, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. The process has been informed by input from leading non-profits, VCMI’s Steering Committee, its high-level decision-making body, as well as guidance from VCMI’s Executive Advisory Group (EAG).

These bodies include experienced VCM voices, such as indigenous and civil society leaders, independent net zero experts, corporate sustainability leads, governments, regulators and academics.

Following the publication of the provisional Claims Code in June 2022, we went through feedback on what was needed to improve. We had over 130 responses to the subsequent consultation, and nearly 70 companies took part in the road test.

The Claims Code will be released in two parts. The first part, published on June 28, is the core Claims Code, an operable claims code that companies will be able to follow and check that they have everything in place in order to make a claim.

Releases after June 28 will build on what is already contained in the Claims Code and will be prepared in consultation with our Stakeholder Forum. These will make the Claims Code more accessible for different types and sizes of organisations by introducing additional claims tiers and an on-ramp.

The Claims Code is part of an evolving process, whereby VCMI must respond to new science, policy, and regulatory requirements – which, since the Claims Code is paving the way for regulation, VCMI supports.

Can you give us more details about the claim process?

The Claims Code has three tiers of claims that companies can make –Silver, Gold, Platinum– each of which recognises investment in GHG emission reductions and removals above and beyond corporate action to meet their science-aligned targets. This work will be supported by additional guidance in November 2023, specifically on the VCMI Measurement, Reporting and Assurance (MRA) framework, additional claim tiers and claim names.

Also Read: Beyond buzzwords: How climate tech startups can create an impact in green recovery

The Claims Code consists of four steps that a company must undertake to make a VCMI Claim:

1. It must first meet VCMI’s Foundational Criteria, which serve as the backbone of an ambitious and robust climate strategy

2. It must then select which VCMI Claim to make Silver, Gold, Platinum

3. To make a claim, the company must select carbon credits which meet stringent quality thresholds in line with the Integrity Council for Voluntary Carbon Markets (ICVCM) Core Carbon Principles (CCPs)

4. Finally, the company must disclose information to support its claim and conduct independent validation and assurance in line with the VCMI MRV and Assurance Framework (to be published in November 2023)

Additional claim options and information will be released in November, and we encourage businesses who may be interested in making a Claim, but who do not think they are able to meet the requirements of Silver to Platinum Claims, to stay posted for further information.

Also Read: The Mills Fabrica aims to transform agrifood, textile industries through its climate tech investments

How can tech startups in various stages and sizes make use of the Claims Code? Is there any specific approach that they should use when using this guideline?

VCMI calls on all organisations to implement the Claims Code to unlock the full potential of high-integrity VCMs. As part of the Claims Code, companies are required to publicly disclose key elements part of transition plan frameworks and globally recognised frameworks such as CDP.

While VCMI does not currently have sector-specific advice on using the Claims Code, we look forward to participation from all organisations, including tech startups, to review their foundational criteria and identify whether they are able to make a claim.

What are the benefits for tech startups in taking part in this initiative?

High-integrity voluntary carbon markets can drive action to accelerate GHG mitigation and channel finance to where it is needed most for national economic, social and climate prosperity.

By adopting the Claims Code, working towards making a Claim and complying with VCMI’s Foundational Criteria, companies across different industries are working towards ensuring climate claims are trustworthy and that their climate strategies, including the use of carbon credits, are being undertaken in a way that provides real benefits to people and nature.

This way, all companies, including tech startups, can help contribute to the global goals of the Paris Agreement by meeting their emissions reduction targets and taking additional mitigation measures.

How do you plan to introduce and promote the Claims Code to the business community?

We will continue to engage with the business community as we further shape and release additional modules to the Claims Code up to November 2023. This will be done in consultation with our Stakeholder Forum, which consists of representatives from business, government, academic/research, and civil society.

Also Read: Meet the 4 SEA startups of PepsiCo’s climate tech accelerator programme

There is a large number of organisations that are already taking part in the Stakeholder Forum and are committed to advancing the mission of the VCMI and the Claims Code.

The work of VCMI also expands on other leading initiatives and guidance in the market, including the ICVCM Core Carbon Principles. VCMI is collaborating with ICVCM to analyse the impacts of corresponding adjustments in the voluntary carbon market.

VCMI and ICVCM work together to consider how correspondingly adjusted carbon credits can be reflected in market guidance to generate coherent, end-to-end rules for the VCM market.

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Image Credit: VCMI

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Forget about the myth of unproductive remote workers. 66 per cent of hybrid and remote managers say productivity has improved since adopting the new working model, and 98 per cent now trust their team to work even on non-office days.

A new survey we conducted reveals how managers of hybrid and remote teams do so with much more ease, enjoyment, and outstanding productivity than other media has us believe.

The survey was conducted through the Pollfish panel of 200 hybrid and remote managers in the USA across all age ranges above 24 years old, seniorities, and industries. The survey ran in June 2023.

Respondents were invited using a double opt-in: they confirmed their interest, created a profile via a verification process, joined the respondent pool, and were invited to take the survey as they fit the targeting criteria.

Here’s what we learned from Myth vs Reality: Remote and Hybrid Managers Report High Productivity and Trust:

• 66 per cent of managers saw increased productivity, and 48.5 per cent said productivity has ‘significantly improved.’ Only two per cent saw a decrease in productivity. Managers said their own productivity has significantly improved (38 per cent) and not decreased (96 per cent)
• 98 per cent say they trust their teams to be productive on non-office days. Only one respondent (out of 200) said they didn’t.
• Contrary to popular belief, 77 per cent of managers find it easy, and 62 per cent find it enjoyable or very enjoyable to manage remote teams.
• Managers report that employee satisfaction and morale (60 per cent) is a major benefit of remote work, alongside a reduction in commute time and stress (54 per cent), improved work-life balance (53 per cent), increased productivity (35 per cent) and an expanded talent pool (30 per cent).
• Asked to return to the office full-time, 15 per cent of employees would consider looking for a new job, and 59 per cent would return if needed. Only 26 per cent would happily return to the office. 

Productivity has significantly improved in hybrid and remote teams

Does the media narrative strike you as overwhelmingly critical of hybrid and remote work? You’re not alone. But contrary to widespread scepticism, the survey findings demonstrate an overwhelmingly positive reality for managers embracing hybrid remote work. 

Also Read: ‘Co-working spaces should introduce new tech tools to cater to hybrid, remote workers’

66 per cent of randomly selected managers experience improved performance levels, of which 48.5 per cent said productivity has ‘significantly improved,’ dismantling the belief that physical presence is essential for optimal productivity. With 31 per cent of managers saying productivity has remained the same, only two per cent saw a decrease in productivity. How’s that for a positive outlook?

Productivity, how effectively an individual accomplishes a task, is highly debated in the context of hybrid and remote working models. The results from this FlexOS survey align with studies by Microsoft and others that productivity doesn’t suffer from distributed work, but many still believe the opposite.

Measuring productivity has always been challenging, often relying on self-reporting or activity-based metrics that may not accurately reflect the desired productivity. This leads to “productivity paranoia” between companies and employees. The fact is, productivity isn’t a real challenge, and companies should embrace this.

Trust in teams is equally high

The survey also reveals high levels of trust in hybrid and remote work environments. 

A remarkable 98 per cent of managers said they’re confident in their teams’ ability to deliver results on non-office days. Wow. This goes directly against the conventional wisdom that remote work breeds doubts about employee productivity. And here’s how it breaks down: 60% said they trust their employees completely, and 37 per cent mostly. 

Managers’ trust is also supported by the fact that only 26 per cent of hybrid and remote managers use time-tracking software, and 36 per cent use productivity-tracking software. Most managers measure productivity by completed work, followed by regular check-ins. 

Ready for more remote work myth-busting? 

Contrary to popular belief, remote work has proved easier and more enjoyable for managers, with most embracing the benefits of flexibility and remote collaboration: 77 per cent find it easy, and 62 per cent find it enjoyable or very enjoyable. 

Remote teams are happier and have a better work-life balance

Asked about the key benefits managers have experienced since switching to a hybrid or remote working model, managers highlight the positive impact on their teams. Six out of 10 managers agree that employee satisfaction and morale have improved. 54 per cent tout the reduction in commuting-related stress, and 53 per cent say improved work-life balance for team members is a key benefit.

Managers also positively highlight the ability to attract and retain top talent (18 per cent) and access to an expanded talent pool with diverse skills (30 per cent). This is even more applicable for fully remote managers, who feel 21 per cent more strongly that they have an extended talent pool. 

This sentiment echoes findings from remote companies like Airbnb that they have become more attractive to more people after moving to a more flexible work model. Airbnb’s CEO Brian Chesky said, “Ultimately, I don’t believe that CEOs can dictate how people work. The market will. The employees will. Flexibility will be the most important benefit after compensation.”

Challenges do exist – and they’re very human

The above doesn’t mean there aren’t challenges for managers. There are. 

Asked what their largest challenges are in hybrid and remote team management, leaders answered universally that distractions at home bug them, especially kids and other family members. 

A lack of face-to-face interactions results in delays and miscommunication. Managers wish there were more opportunities for personal interaction because understanding and managing emotions without face-to-face interaction was mentioned as a challenge. 

In third place of the most common challenges… “wait, you’re breaking up.” Yes, it’s technological or connectivity issues. Managers told us this can be frustrating since they cannot control people’s home internet. We hear you… 

Also Read: Is remote work the answer to tech’s layoffs?

Technology is more important than ever

Speaking of technology: it plays a massive role in managing remote teams. 

The most commonly used technology when managing hybrid and remote teams are video conferencing (88 per cent), collaboration and document sharing platforms like Microsoft Teams (60 per cent), instant messaging tools (46 per cent), time tracking software like Time Doctor (26 per cent), and project management platforms like Monday.com (25 per cent).

Compared to hybrid managers, remote managers are more likely to utilise a dedicated Instant Messaging platform and project management tools but less likely to use time-tracking software. This builds on the previous finding that remote managers feel confident in their team doing the work. 

Companies have used wellness programs (50 per cent), knowledge-sharing initiatives (37 per cent), virtual career development (36 per cent), team-building activities (35 per cent), and dedicated ‘water cooler’ channels (31 per cent) to engage remote employees.

But if you ask remote managers, they really want more training and better technology: one in two managers want to learn more about managing their distributed teams best. A similar amount wants better technology, including project management and collaboration tools. Only 15 per cent of managers said they have all the necessary knowledge and tools.

How about the office then?

Asked to return to the office full-time, 15 per cent of employees would consider looking for a new job, and 59 per cent would return if needed. Only 26 per cent would happily return to the office. 

It’s not that people don’t want to be in an office ever. We often need a space to focus and to collaborate with our colleagues. We don’t want to be in the office constantly; this survey shows that again.

The increased importance of managers

The survey focused on managers because while the media often speaks about companies’ challenges in managing hybrid and remote work, especially CEOs like Elon Musk, solving these problems is up to managers.

 Managers play an increasingly outsized role in organisations because they create social capital and serve as connection points between upper-level leadership and employees. 

Recent Humu research back this up: effective managers are 2.2x more likely to retain top talent, create 78 per cent more psychological safety – the most significant predictor of team effectiveness, and 22 per cent higher employee engagement. 

Let’s conclude

These survey results demand re-evaluating how we think about hybrid and remote work. 

We encourage organisations to embrace remote work’s transformative potential and recognize its inherent benefits to productivity, employee satisfaction, and trust-building.

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Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic

Join our e27 Telegram group, FB community, or like the e27 Facebook page

Image credit: FlexOS

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