Dear reader,

Singapore’s state-owned investment giant Temasek Holdings is reportedly in preliminary talks to support OpenAI, signalling a potential collaboration that could significantly impact the AI landscape.

This development aligns with the island nation’s strategic ambition to emerge as a dominant force in AI within Asia, supported by substantial financial backing of around US$742 million for the sector. If finalised, this would mark OpenAI’s first partnership with a state-backed investor.

While neither Temasek nor OpenAI have confirmed the discussions, reports suggest that the dialogue has evolved from considering investment in OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman’s VC fund to a direct investment in OpenAI itself. This move underscores the growing importance of AI in global investment strategies and the recognition of OpenAI’s potential in this field.

The potential investment not only signifies a financial boost for OpenAI but also aligns with Singapore’s broader vision of nurturing local AI talent and establishing itself as a hub for AI innovation.

However, OpenAI faces challenges such as financial losses and a scarcity of AI-focused chips, which underscores the significance of securing substantial investments to fuel its ambitious initiatives. Despite hurdles, OpenAI’s recent valuation surge and sustained global interest underscore its potential and significance in the AI landscape.

Sainul,
Editor.

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NEWS

Carro acquires Beyond Cars, bets big on Hong Kong’s strong EV growth
Carro will work towards expanding Beyond Cars’s network of partnerships and further developing ancillary services across insurtech, financing, and aftersales in Hong Kong.

Temasek, OpenAI in early-stage talks for funding
The talks come as Singapore looks to become an Asian AI powerhouse, having set aside roughly US$742M for investments in the sector; Should the deal materialise, Temasek would be the ChatGPT developer’s first state-backed investor.

NBA star Jeremy Lin joins Indonesian proptech firm Rukita’s US$15M round
The backers also include MPower Partners, BNI Ventures, and Openspace Ventures; Rukita claims to be EBITDA positive and doubling its supply growth y-o-y with 1.4M rooms under its ecosystem and unique users of over 3M per month.

AI-powered insurtech startup Sunday acquires KSK Insurance Indonesia
KSK Insurance offers car, property and cargo insurance through agents and brokers across several cities in Indonesia; Sunday uses AI and digital platforms to offer personalised insurance products and services.

TikTok begs users to tell Congress not to ban it
TikTok has been under scrutiny in the US for a while; The app is banned on government-issued phones in dozens of states; The platform has previously tapped its community to support its battles in Congress.

Ai Palette, a provider of real-time insights into consumer trends, raises US$5.8M
Tin Men Capital is the investor; Ai Palette looks to expand further into the beauty & personal care and nutraceutical categories; The injection will also fuel its global expansion in North America, Europe and APAC.

Tokocrypto founder’s new AI-powered gifting startup Untukmu bags seed funding
The investors are 1982 Ventures and unnamed angels; Untukmu offers sophisticated tools, such as a gift tracker, budgeting tool, and events calendar and streamlines the gifting process.

Sea’s Free Fire India relaunch in limbo six months on
Free Fire, once a beloved game in India, has left its devoted fanbase frustrated by Garena’s lack of transparency regarding the relaunch, leading many gamers to abandon the title in favour of Krafton’s BGMI.

Thai EV startup Sleek raises funding from Krungsri Finnovate
Sleek claims to have sold over 1,000 units in 2024 and is approaching a delivery rate of 1,000 units per month; The startup also provides vehicle financing with no down payment required and at a low interest rate.

Thailand opens applications for virtual banks
The central bank and the finance ministry will consider applications within nine months of when the submission period ends; The authorities have not limited the number of licences but will consider them as appropriate for the Thai financial institutions system.

Startup investments in SEA see 44% monthly rise in February: Tracxn
Southeast Asian startups raised US$353M in venture funding from 42 rounds in Feb; Seed funding rounds (27) formed the bulk of the deals in February, followed by early-stage (12) and late-stage investments.

AI-driven food waste reduction startup Winnow raises funding for Asia expansion
ABC Impact is the investor; Winnow provides AI-enabled solutions, which are trained to recognise waste as it is thrown in the bin, whether during preparation or from a customer’s plate.

A sneak peek into the six edutech startups joining EduSpaze’s cohort 8
The six Southeast Asian edutech startups are Yaho Lab, Edvance, Quippy, School on Cloud, Safe Space, and Salatech; They will receive seed funding and mentorship from industry experts.

Studio 30 50 unveils maritime-tech startups joining its latest cohort
The cohort comprises two pre-revenue startups and eight pre-idea founders exploring solutions across crew training, safety, and engagement; predictive vessel maintenance; marine insurance; and circular economy in maritime operations.

Former McKinsey exec Marco Breu joins ThinkZone Ventures as venture partner
Breu previously founded The Mekong Business Challenge; He will accelerate the growth of ThinkZone’s Series A+ portfolio companies in terms of strategy consulting, fundraising, and partnership connections.

FEATURES

A deep-dive into Wavemaker Impact’s decarbonisation strategies in SEA
Wavemaker Impact aims to reduce global carbon emissions by 10% and drive impactful solutions across diverse sectors for lasting change.

‘HUGgy’ng innovation: Dolbomdream’s tech vest aims to bridge mental healthcare gap
Dolbomdream’s HUGgy vest provides a calming effect for those with developmental disabilities, aiming to improve access to mental healthcare.

Invest in women, accelerate progress: Why gender equality matters now more than ever
Investing in women is not only morally imperative but also essential for driving economic growth and fostering social progress.

Inside MixCare Health’s expansion plan: Seizing a US$1B opportunity in Asia
In its expansion to SEA, MixCare Health wants to focus on Thailand and Singapore, followed by Malaysia and the Philippines.

Staple CEO: SEA countries can benefit from cross-border collaboration in AI governance
According to Benjamin Stein, sharing best practices, regulatory frameworks, and learnings can lead to a more cohesive approach to safe AI usage in the region.

Following triumph at global startup competition, RizqX aims to further promote its halal investments platform
RizqX focuses on empowering Muslims to make informed financial decisions following Shariah principles.

CONTRIBUTORY ARTICLES

Google’s best leaders use this simple tool to show care and concern for their employees
As a leader, ask your employees to write down a personal goal of theirs; It’s about encouraging them to set a goal that will measurably contribute to their personal well-being; You then commit to helping them achieve it.

Beyond the money: How small angel cheque fuel startup success
Small angel cheques in startup fundraising showcase the dynamic interconnectedness of the investment ecosystem.

Grab’s new programme aims to bring more women drivers on board
As part of Grab’s Women Programme, we are rolling out tailored onboarding and training sessions, setting up women-only communities and testing a new safety feature.

Empowering enablers: How Athena Dynamics fosters innovation
Athena Dynamics’ strength lies in its people, who identify innovations, stress-test them rigorously, and seamlessly apply them in real-world scenarios.

2024 financial forecast: Growth strategies amidst uncertainty
Disruptive technologies are revolutionising how we live, work, and handle money, promising transformative shifts in the financial landscape.

What did we learn from failing to raise VC funding?
Securing funding from venture capitalists is not assured, with statistics indicating that less than one per cent of startups receive such funding.

Fintech’s hidden power: Women leading the charge for a more equitable future
Global Women’s Entrepreneurship Research also shows women are more likely to create social ventures rather than only economic ventures and pursue environmental ventures rather than economic-focused ventures.

AI will change the game of tech business in Vietnam by 2024. This is what you need to know about it
Often, businesses only realise the importance of digital infrastructure as they use new tech such as AI to increase productivity.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Ready for expansion? here’s how to decide where to take your business
Besides factors such as legislation, infrastructure and general cultural climate, your main goal should be understanding if there is a gap between offer and demand that your products could fit into.

6 simple tips for branding your website
You might consider adding a blog to keep your customers up to date with what you are promoting or releasing; Gather images that you want to display and decide where you want them to go.

4 ways to boost your preparation for a startup pitching competition
Most business successes rely on the ability to build a strategic partnership; At a pitching competition, you get to meet like-minded people who can add value to your business in some way.

How to use the psychology of gamification to grow e-commerce sales
Gamified smart promotions provide the perfect motivation for your potential customers by rewarding them for making purchases on your online store.

6 key things to consider while hiring an individual to handle tax for your startup
As a startup owner, you often tend to take tax filing lightly and do not give much attention to hiring a tax professional. However, you should make sure to hire an experienced tax preparer.

ECHELON NEWS

BRI Ventures CEO to share insights on chasing Indonesia’s next Unicorn
At Echelon X, BRI Ventures CEO Nicko Widjaja will be speaking to e27’s Anisa Menur Maulani on navigating Indonesia’s investment landscape.

—

X marks Echelon. Join us at Singapore EXPO on May 15-16 for the 10th edition of Asia’s leading tech and startup conference. Enjoy 2 days of building connections with potential investors, partners, and customers, exploring innovation, and sharing insights with 8,000+ key decision-makers of Asia’s tech ecosystem. Get your tickets here.

Want more from your Echelon experience? Be an Echelon X sponsor or exhibitor. Send enquiry here.

The post Ecosystem Roundup: Temasek in talks to invest in OpenAI | Carro acquires HK’s Beyond Cars | Sunday snaps up KSK Insurance appeared first on e27.

 

 

There are a million and one things you need to do and so little resources available to do them — this despite increasing competition in the startup ecosystem. As a result, you have to be smart about what you are doing.

Whether you’re in need of some extra cash to help you better support your startup or a more effective plan to help you grow, it doesn’t always have to be hell when bootstrapping your startup.

Below are 4 easy ways to grow your startup faster while bootstrapping:

Consider freelance opportunities to generate funds

The freelance economy is big enough, and it continues to grow.

According to Fiverr’s 2019 Freelance Economic Impact Report, skilled freelancers in the top 25 U.S. markets contribute to a combined paycheck of over USD$135 billion and are responsible for up to 2 per cent of GDP is some regions. That’s a big deal, and it should excite you as a startup founder looking to grow your startup on limited resources.

Taking freelance opportunities means that you will not have to sacrifice your position at your startup or look for a full-time job; you can work on freelance activities late at night while you build your startup during the day.

There is an overabundance of jobs for freelance programmers, designers, and developers. If you don’t have technical skills, there are countless websites that allow you to get paid to write as a freelance writer.

By taking advantage of these freelance opportunities, you can easily earn four figures (or sometimes five figures) in monthly income. This addresses your immediate needs and prevents you from having to look for a job while also possibly providing extra income that you can funnel into your startup.

Explore strategic partnership opportunities

Your startup is worth little if nobody knows about it, and getting people to know about it without having a lot of money to splash on marketing is a major challenge. This challenge can be solved by exploring strategic partnership opportunities.

Sometimes, this means you have to take on co-founders in exchange for equity in your startup; while this might be hard, it is important to realize that your startup isn’t worth much if nobody knows about it.

If your expertise is in development and programming, you can partner with someone who has a marketing background. If your expertise is in marketing, you can partner with someone who has development and programming background.

The advantage to strategic partnerships — if you have the right partner(s) and goals/milestones are properly set — is that it makes you grow at a much faster pace; it saves you time you’d otherwise spend doing what the partner will be doing, allowing you to commit it to other more important tasks, and the effort of two people growing a startup yields much better results than that of one.

A notable example of the effectiveness of leveraging partnership opportunities when bootstrapping a startup is a social media app Buffer. During the early stages, founder Joel Gascoigne brought in Leo Widrich as co-founder.

Widrich was in charge of marketing and was able to leverage his marketing experience to achieve feats that include using guest blogging to take Buffer from zero to 100,000 users within the first nine months of the company. Today, Buffer generates 8 figures in annual revenue and employs over 80 people.

Leverage on content marketing

As a cash-strapped marketer, you have to get smarter about how you market your startup.

While well-funded startups can afford to splash money on marketing, advertising, and other forms of media campaigns, you, unfortunately, do not have the same luxury. Thankfully, we have content marketing.

The main advantage of focusing on content marketing as a growth strategy is that all you need is enough time to work out a strategy and create content.

If you do not have a blog, it might be a good idea to start one. Research shows that businesses that blog get 97 per cent more links, twice the email traffic, and 67 per cent more leads than businesses that don’t.

You can also leverage guest blogging, content syndication, and content repurposing to create more awareness for your brand and increase your potential of getting more traffic from search engines.

Tap into the power of viral marketing

When bootstrapping your startup, one of the biggest techniques you can capitalize on is the power of viral marketing.

While going viral can be difficult, it can be very rewarding if done right. Dropbox is a notable example. With a current valuation of USD $7.75 billion, Dropbox’s success today cannot be separated from its effective execution of a viral marketing strategy early on. 

In fact, during its early stages, Dropbox recorded a 3,900 per cent growth in 15 months and saw its user base double every three months — between 2008 to 2010 alone, users were responsible for sending 2.8 million invites through Dropbox.

And this does not factor results that can not be directly measured (the resultant word of mouth marketing and an increase in brand value is probably much more!).

The key to Dropbox’s success is quite simple: they created an amazing product that people would love and incentivized the process of telling others about it. Users could gain up to 16GB in free storage by inviting others to use Dropbox.

This was done by making it easy for users to refer their friends; they could add an email or import a list of users from their email account, they were rewarded for connecting their social media account and sharing this with users, and prompts were made to encourage them to invite others.

Your startup can employ viral marketing no matter what you offer. Josh Earl’s Sublime Text Tips is another example of a well-executed viral marketing campaign.

By incentivizing users to promote his newsletter, Earl was able to grow his email list by 3,418 per cent (and increase his number of subscribers by almost 200,000) in just 11 days.

It doesn’t matter what approach you take to viral marketing if done right, it costs little or nothing and can be immensely rewarding for your business.

In conclusion

With the right strategy, marketing can cost nothing or very little. You can also earn extra funds to support your business while it grows.

The above are four ways to go your startup faster while bootstrapping it.

–

Editor’s note: e27 publishes relevant guest contributions from the community. Share your honest opinions and expert knowledge by submitting your content here.

Join our e27 Telegram group here, or our e27 contributor Facebook page here.

Image Credit:  Annie Spratt

This article was first published on October 12, 2019

The post Bootstrapping your startup: 4 easy ways to grow faster appeared first on e27.

Visit Echelon X to learn more about the program. Get your tickets here!

No matter the size, the vertical, or the funding stage of a startup, growth will always be one of its central objectives. Growth not only enables startups to expand their market reach but also attracts potential investors, partners, and top talent. By continually seeking growth opportunities, startups can diversify their revenue streams, mitigate risks, and establish themselves as key players in their respective industries. Moreover, growth often leads to economies of scale, allowing startups to optimise their operations, reduce costs, and improve profitability over time.

As consumer preferences, technology, and industry trends evolve, startups must innovate and grow to meet changing demands and seize emerging opportunities. Embracing growth fosters a culture of agility and resilience within startups, empowering them to pivot, iterate, and disrupt existing markets. Ultimately, by prioritising growth, startups can unlock their full potential, create lasting impact, and drive sustainable success in the long term.

Of course, like any other aspect of business, knowledge-sharing is integral to startup growth as it facilitates collective learning, fosters innovation, and accelerates progress within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. By openly exchanging insights, experiences, and best practices, startups can leverage the collective wisdom of their peers and industry experts to overcome challenges, identify opportunities, and refine their strategies. This collaborative approach not only enriches the knowledge base of individual startups but also cultivates a culture of continuous improvement and adaptation, essential for sustained growth in dynamic markets.

Also read: BRI Ventures CEO to share insights on chasing Indonesia’s next Unicorn

Moreover, knowledge-sharing enhances networking opportunities, establishes valuable partnerships, and attracts top talent to startups. By actively participating in programs dedicated to knowledge-sharing, startups can connect with seasoned professionals, investors, and potential collaborators who can offer valuable guidance, resources, and support. This network effect not only expands the startup’s reach but also facilitates access to new markets, funding opportunities, and innovative ideas. Ultimately, embracing knowledge-sharing as a core tenet of startup culture empowers entrepreneurs to navigate uncertainty, seize growth opportunities, and drive meaningful impact in their respective industries.

Paving the path to business growth through learning

Startups often face challenges in identifying the most effective strategies to achieve profitability amidst intense competition and evolving market dynamics. By engaging in knowledge-sharing initiatives, startups can gain valuable insights into successful business models, revenue-generation techniques, and growth strategies employed by peers and industry leaders. This exchange of ideas and experiences enables startups to explore innovative approaches, experiment with new concepts, and adapt their business models to better meet the needs of their target market, ultimately enhancing their prospects for long-term profitability and sustainability.

Moreover, staying informed about the new knowledge and talent requirements not only of your talent pool but also of C-suite roles and other in-demand positions is essential for startup success. As startups grow and scale, the demands placed on leadership roles such as CEOs, CTOs, and CFOs evolve rapidly, requiring executives to possess a diverse set of skills and competencies. Startups can leverage this knowledge to attract top-tier talent and build high-performing teams capable of driving innovation, executing strategic initiatives, and sustaining growth in competitive markets.

With knowledge-sharing playing such a crucial role in business growth, Echelon X proudly presents the Growth Stage: A dedicated platform for industry leaders to come together and discuss the latest trends and insights on how to grow your company.

At the Growth Stage, participants can expect to learn about ways to navigate the complexities of startup growth, particularly when it comes to learning new models and paths to profitability in the startup landscape, new knowledge and talent requirements about C-suite roles and other in-demand positions today, as well as trends and opportunities in building and upskilling the talent of today.

Also read: Navigating the AI frontier: Strategies for scaling for SEA startups

Some of the pressing topics that will be discussed at the Growth Stage include gorging the future AI workforce through talent upskilling and talent acquisition, getting the right formula of software and service for Southeast Asia SMEs, and creative storytelling: how startups can merge creativity, data gathering, and analysis to tell impactful stories, among others.

Happening on May 15 to 16 at the Singapore EXPO, Echelon X is deeply committed to fostering knowledge-sharing within the tech startup community. As one of the premier tech events in the region, Echelon X provides a platform for entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators to come together, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.

Through a diverse range of keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions, Echelon facilitates meaningful interactions and knowledge transfer, empowering participants to gain valuable insights and build meaningful connections. By promoting collaboration and knowledge-sharing, Echelon X contributes to the growth and development of the tech startup ecosystem in Asia, driving innovation and entrepreneurship forward.

Join us at Echelon X!

Gear up for the premier tech and innovation conference as Echelon X kicks off on May 15th and 16th, 2024, at the Singapore EXPO. This dynamic event will bring together industry leaders, visionary entrepreneurs, and groundbreaking startups from all corners of the region for two packed days.

Whether you’re eager to expand your knowledge, network with key players from the tech startup scene, or showcase your innovative ideas, Echelon X offers an unparalleled experience. Join us as a participant or an official partner by securing your spot now on our official page. Together, let’s embark on a journey to shape the future and create a lasting impact.

Join us at Echelon 2024, where innovation knows no limits, and the possibilities are endless!

The post Echelon X introduces the Growth Stage: A dedicated platform for startup growth appeared first on e27.

As the global startup ecosystem continues to thrive, several innovative ventures have recently secured substantial funding rounds, reflecting investors’ confidence in their potential.

From AI-driven safety solutions for motorcycle fleets to Web3 entertainment platforms and electric two-wheeler brands, these Southeast Asian startups are shaping industries and redefining consumer experiences.

Rider Dome (Singapore)

Funding: US$2.3M
Round: Seed
Investors: Goldbell, Radha Rani Holdings Family Office, angels

Rider Dome specialises in AI-driven safety solutions for motorcycle fleets and riders. It leverages AI to reduce motorcycle accidents and enhance overall rider safety, focusing on the needs of large fleets. Its technology, Advanced Rider Assistance System (ARAS), based on computer vision algorithms, analyses real-time data and detects potential threats on the road.

Imaginary Ones (Singapore)

Funding: Undisclosed
Round: Not specified
Investors: Cypher Capital, Animoca Brands, ED3N Ventures, MH Ventures

Also Read: Animoca Brands invests in Singaporean Web3 entertainment startup Imaginary Ones

Imaginary Ones is a Singapore-based Web3 entertainment company. Founded by Clement Chia and David Lee, Imaginary Ones integrates interactive gaming experiences, curated merchandise offerings and content to provide better immersive entertainment. The Web3 startup shot to fame when it sold out a limited NFT collection of 8,888 fully animated 3D characters on the Ethereum network in a record time.

wagely (Indonesia)

Funding: US$23 million
Round: Not specified
Investors: Capria Ventures, unnamed private debt fund

wagely is an Indonesian earned wage access platform with a presence in Bangladesh. A financial wellness platform, it offers workers visibility into their daily earnings and instant access to earned wages. This allows workers to better manage their money by letting them access their pay after each workday. It is offered free to employers, who then provide it as an optional benefit to employees.

Winnow (the UK)

Funding: Undisclosed
Round: Not specified
Investor: ABC Impact

Winnow is an AI-driven food waste reduction solution company. Headquartered in London with offices in Singapore, Chicago, Dubai, and Cluj-Napoca, Winnow provides AI-enabled solutions, which are trained to recognise waste as it is thrown in the bin, whether during preparation or from a customer’s plate. The automated recording process captures 100 per cent of the waste stream and analytics identify and track where wastage occurs. This approach enables users to optimise efficiency, change behaviours, and drive significant waste reductions in their kitchens.

Ai Palette (Singapore)

Funding: US$5.8 million
Round: Series A+
Investor: Tin Men Capital (lead)

Ai Palette enables consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies to create products using AI and machine learning technologies. Ai Palette provides a multimodal AI-powered platform catering to the CPG industry in the F&B, beauty and personal care, and nutraceutical products. The platform enables real-time identification of emerging consumer trends with contextual understanding and generates and screens product ideas within minutes. This improves the costs and efficiency of developing new product category entries, product line expansion, identification of new demand spaces, portfolio optimisation and product repositioning.

Sleek EV (Thailand)

Funding: Undisclosed
Round: Series A+
Investor: Krungsri Finnovate

Sleek EV is an electric two-wheeler brand in Thailand. Its batteries are IoT-enabled with swapping capabilities. With our mobile app, Sleek users can enjoy keyless start/stop, theft detection, customisable dashboards, and carbon credits. The startup has launched four models: Type-S, Type-E, Type-X, and Sleek Play. These models share the same powertrain platform, known as S Drive 1.0, with variations in motor-rated power. The battery platform was developed in collaboration with Ampace, an advanced Lithium-ion battery company and a joint venture between CATL and ATL.

In partnership with financial institutions in Thailand, Sleek EV also provides vehicle financing with no down payment required and at a low interest rate.

Untukmu (Indonesia)

Funding: Undisclosed
Round: Seed
Investors: 1982 Ventures, angels

Untukmu.AI is a Singapore-incorporated startup providing AI solutions for the gifting industry in Indonesia. Launched in January this year, it aims to tackle the complexity of scaling personalised gifts for a broad audience, catering to small businesses, corporations, and self-employed professionals. The platform offers sophisticated tools, such as a gift tracker, budgeting tool, and events calendar — all integrated with social media to streamline the gifting process. Its dashboard allows merchants to manage and increase sales, provide valuable insights into customer preferences, optimise their product offerings, and personalise shopping experience.

Also Read: Tokocrypto founder’s new AI startup Untukmu bags funding to disrupt Indonesia’s personalised gifting market

Rukita (Indonesia)

Funding: US$15 million
Round: Series B+
Investors: MPower Partners, BNI Ventures, Openspace Ventures, NBA star Jeremy Lin, Peak XV’s Surge, Golden Gate Ventures, Shunwei Capital, OCBC Ventures, David Tsang

Rukita is a long-stay rental provider. Founded in 2019 by Sabrina Soewatdy and Sarah Soewatdy, Rukita aims to capitalise on the growing popularity of rental housing among Indonesia’s rising middle class and staggering millennial population. The firm brings together property, landlords, market insights, marketplaces, financing, and tenant service.

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X marks Echelon. Join us at Singapore EXPO on May 15-16 for the 10th edition of Asia’s leading tech and startup conference. Enjoy 2 days of building connections with potential investors, partners, and customers, exploring innovation, and sharing insights with 8,000+ key decision-makers of Asia’s tech ecosystem. Get your tickets here.

Want more from your Echelon experience? Be an Echelon X sponsor or exhibitor. Send enquiry here.

The post Innovation on the rise: Southeast Asian startups secure impressive funding rounds appeared first on e27.

As we gear up for the milestone 10th edition of Echelon, Southeast Asia’s premier tech conference, we are excited to introduce a dedicated space where groundbreaking AI solutions will take centre stage – the AI Zone!

At Echelon X (2024), AI will be at the forefront of discussions, shaping the future of technology across various sectors. With an anticipated audience of 8,000 delegates, including industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors, this is an opportunity to showcase your AI innovations and expertise to a diverse and engaged audience.

Also read: Echelon X: A platform where partnerships are forged

We invite you to join us in the AI Zone at Echelon X and elevate your AI solutions to new heights. Whether you’re a startup founder, a seasoned AI developer, or an industry expert, we want to feature your groundbreaking AI solutions and insights at our conference.

Why Join the AI Zone at Echelon X?

Exposure. Gain visibility for your AI solutions among industry professionals, potential investors, and decision-makers attending the conference.

Networking. Connect with fellow innovators, thought leaders, and potential collaborators in the dynamic AI ecosystem.

Validation. Showcase your AI solutions on a prestigious platform, reinforcing your credibility and positioning your brand as a leader in AI innovation.

Opportunity. Explore partnership opportunities, investment prospects, and business collaborations with key stakeholders in the tech community.

Expected attendees on Echelon X event floor

1. 5,000+ Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs) and startups looking for tech solutions to bring their business to the next level
2. 1,000+ Enterprises and MNCs looking to innovate their traditional processes through technology
3. 1,000+ Active Investors looking for the next unicorn
4. 50+ Media and Press outlets covering the latest and upcoming technologies

Reserved only for 12 companies to showcase their top-of-the-mind AI Solutions that are revolutionising traditional business processes.

Also read: The first 27 key innovation leaders who will speak at Echelon X

How to Participate

Express your interest in participating or  learn more about showcasing your AI solutions in the AI Zone by submitting an enquiry here. Our team is here to assist you every step of the way and ensure that your AI innovations receive the recognition they deserve.

We look forward to welcoming you to the AI Zone and witnessing the impact of your AI innovations firsthand.

The post AI Zone at Echelon X: Get regional visibility for your AI solutions appeared first on e27.

Visit Echelon X to learn more about the program. Get your tickets here!

Indonesia’s tech startup ecosystem has been experiencing rapid growth in recent years, propelled by a combination of factors including a large and digitally savvy population, increasing internet penetration, and supportive government policies.

Jakarta, the capital city, has emerged as a vibrant hub for tech innovation, attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and talent from both within the country and across the region. The startup scene in Indonesia spans various sectors including e-commerce, fintech, healthtech, agritech, and logistics, with notable success stories such as Gojek, Tokopedia, Bukalapak, and Traveloka, all of which have achieved unicorn status.

Investment in Indonesian tech startups has also been on the rise, with venture capital firms, corporate investors, and international players actively seeking opportunities in the market. The country has witnessed significant funding rounds, indicating growing confidence from investors in the potential of Indonesian startups to scale and succeed both domestically and internationally.

Additionally, government initiatives to support entrepreneurship and innovation and regulatory reforms aimed at fostering a conducive environment for startups further contribute to the flourishing tech ecosystem in Indonesia.

Challenges in Indonesia’s burgeoning investment ecosystem

Investors in Indonesia are eagerly scouring the landscape for lucrative business opportunities, drawn by the immense potential of the country’s tech startup ecosystem. With a flourishing entrepreneurial culture, Indonesia offers a fertile ground for investment across various sectors which is largely bolstered by the success stories of the country’s impressive roster of unicorns, underscoring the viability of the market and fueling investor enthusiasm.

Also read: Navigating the AI frontier: Strategies for scaling for SEA startups

However, investors in Indonesia’s tech startup ecosystem also face several challenges amidst the promising landscape. Navigating regulatory complexities and compliance requirements can be particularly daunting, especially for foreign investors seeking to enter the market. Additionally, while there are numerous investment opportunities, identifying high-potential startups amidst intense competition requires thorough due diligence and market expertise. Infrastructure limitations, such as internet connectivity and logistics infrastructure, can also impact the scalability and profitability of investments, especially in reaching underserved areas. Moreover, fluctuations in macroeconomic conditions and currency volatility may introduce additional risks for investors.

Despite these challenges, strategic partnerships, continuous engagement with local stakeholders, and a deep understanding of the market dynamics can help investors navigate the complexities and capitalise on the growth potential of Indonesia’s tech startup ecosystem. As such, stakeholders in Indonesia’s investment space need to explore opportunities for learning and knowledge-sharing in order to effectively strategise on their quest to find the next unicorn.

Knowledge-sharing as a key component of Echelon X

Knowledge-sharing plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation and driving growth within the tech startup ecosystem. By sharing insights, experiences, and best practices, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts can collectively learn from both successes and failures, ultimately inspiring innovation and entrepreneurship throughout the business landscape.

Knowledge-sharing also facilitates networking and collaboration, enabling individuals and organisations to forge valuable connections, explore new opportunities, and overcome common challenges. Moreover, in a rapidly evolving landscape, staying informed about the latest trends, technologies, and market dynamics is essential for staying competitive and seizing emerging opportunities.

Also read: Echelon X: A platform where partnerships are forged

Happening on May 15 to 16 at the Singapore EXPO, Echelon X is deeply committed to fostering knowledge-sharing within the tech startup community. As one of the premier tech events in the region, Echelon X provides a platform for entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators to come together, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.

Through a diverse range of keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions, Echelon facilitates meaningful interactions and knowledge transfer, empowering participants to gain valuable insights and build meaningful connections. By promoting collaboration and knowledge-sharing, Echelon X contributes to the growth and development of the tech startup ecosystem in Asia, driving innovation and entrepreneurship forward.

With this mission in mind, Echelon X will be featuring a fireside chat dedicated to tackling the ins and outs of the investment landscape in Indonesia’s vibrant tech startup ecosystem.

Chasing Unicorns: The Next Play in Indonesia’s Tech Investment and Ecosystem

At this Echelon X fireside chat, key experts and industry leaders will be discussing the fundamentals of investing in Indonesia, as well as trends and insights relevant to today’s increasingly competitive landscape. Aptly titled, Chasing Unicorns: The Next Play in Indonesia’s Tech Investment and Ecosystem, the fireside chat will be featuring Nicko Widjaja, CEO of BRI Ventures.

BRI Ventures (BVI) is a corporate venture capital initiative backed by Bank Rakyat Indonesia, with headquarters in Jakarta, Indonesia. The firm is established as an independent entity with its funding processes. They aim to be the leading regional venture capital in financial technology and are set to achieve their goal of accelerating Indonesia’s financial inclusion and digital economy society by empowering the startup ecosystem.

Also read: Exploring emerging tech at the Future Stage in Echelon X

As CEO of BRI Ventures, Nicko Widjaja leads the charge when it comes to chasing Indonesia’s next unicorn. An early tech investment pioneer, he has a career spanning over 10 years in venture capital, corporate transformation, and startup ecosystem.

He was formerly the CEO of MDI Ventures, a Telkom Indonesia-backed venture capital, with investments in over 10 countries. Under his leadership, MDI Ventures become one of the most profitable venture capital firms in the region with three unicorns, two international IPOs (ASX and TSE) and seven trade exits in just five years since inception. Since the founding of BRI Ventures in 2019, he has held two unicorns and one IPO at the IDX.

Throughout his career, Nicko Widjaja has invested in more than 100 startups globally.

Moderating the session is Anisa Menur Maulani, Editor at e27. Anisa is a media and communications professional with a decade of experience in Indonesia and Singapore. Starting as an intern at the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Jakarta, she had previous experiences in public relations and advertising before joining e27 as a junior correspondent in 2015. Anisa was also selected as a fellow in the first batch of the Google Newsroom Initiative Leadership Program.

Join us at Echelon X!

Gear up for the premier tech and innovation conference as Echelon X kicks off on May 15th and 16th, 2024, at the Singapore EXPO. This dynamic event will bring together industry leaders, visionary entrepreneurs, and groundbreaking startups from all corners of the region for two packed days.

Whether you’re eager to expand your knowledge, network with key players from the tech startup scene, or showcase your innovative ideas, Echelon X offers an unparalleled experience. Join us as a participant or an official partner by securing your spot now on our official page. Together, let’s embark on a journey to shape the future and create a lasting impact.

Join us at Echelon 2024, where innovation knows no limits, and the possibilities are endless!

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Studio 30 50, a Singapore-based venture studio focussing on maritime startups, has announced the latest cohort.

The cohort comprises two pre-revenue startups and eight pre-idea founders exploring solutions across crew training, safety, and engagement; predictive vessel maintenance; marine insurance; and circular economy in maritime operations.

Also Read: Our voyage of innovation: Reshaping global maritime logistics

Studio 30 50 runs a unique programme. Unlike conventional incubators or accelerators, it runs intakes of cohorts for sprints that include both pre-idea founders and early-stage startups.

In each sprint cycle, entrepreneurs from previous cohorts are invited to return alongside a new intake. Startups benefit from hands-on mentorship, intimate development support, and action-focused connections with corporate partners and investors. There are no programme fees and only reduced equity commitments each time they return to the venture studio.

Studio 30 50’s previous cohort sprint attracted 11 pre-idea founders and four pre-revenue startups.

Studio 30 50’s latest cohort has led to the commercial scaling of a previous cohort-founded startup and the establishment of two new ventures.

Startup outcomes from Studio 30 50’s cohort sprints include:

• Orbital Wave: It simplifies the Bill of Lading process for seamless compliance. The team leaves with initial commercial proof of concept projects and more in the pipeline.
• Vanguard: It provides insurtech to commercial shipping and marine underwriters. The team leaves with clarity on its extended product roadmap, fresh opportunities with strategic investors and potential customers across vessel and crew safety.
• Nautisense: After joining the first cohort as founders, the startup returned to develop its first-of-its-kind AI tool to work at sea, benefitting from data and inputs from industry-leading partners.

“Despite the industry’s huge scale, there is still an enormous opportunity for innovators to disrupt, digitalise and redefine the maritime industry. We are bringing the barriers to innovation down by working directly with the industry-leading organisations that startups are building for. This opportunity for founders to benefit from real-world industry data, assets, and insight helps them finesse their products for commercial viability, while corporates can leverage their decades of experience to inform the solutions being developed by this emerging generation of talent,” said Shanker Pillai, Head of Studio 30 50.

Also Read: Why Singapore’s traditional sectors need a digital makeover

Founders from previous cohorts have also since realised their maritime-tech solutions, including Ayşe Başak, who launched Shipsider and was selected for the UN Women’s Entrepreneurship Program.

The industry leaders who provided support and attended the cohort’s Demo Day include DNV, MOL, MC Shipping, Lloyd Register, Latitude Brokers, Rightship, Microsoft, TecPier, Maritime Port Authority of Singapore Motion Ventures, Swire, South32 and Narwhale Ventures.

Applications for Studio 30 50’s next cohort sprint, taking place in May 2024, are now open.

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Founded in 2020, Hong Kong-based digital health and wellness platform MixCare Health has made significant milestones that include serving more than 100,000 end-users via 25 clients, including major Hong Kong employers such as PwC, HKBN and Manpower, and insurers including China Life, AXA, Chubb Life, OneDegree and Blue.

“In the past 12 months, we’ve had significant success in growing the potential end user base by signing agreements with major employers and insurance companies who want to offer our individual health and wellness services to their policyholders. We are always humbled by how these major names will place their trust in a young company such as ourselves to support them with a solution,” explains Alex Wong, CEO and Co-Founder at MixCare Health, in an email interview with e27.

Aimed at corporates and insurers, the MixCare Health platform connects employees and policyholders with the services they need to live a better, healthier life. This year, the company plans to expand into Southeast Asia (SEA).

“We have had strong interest from insurers who want to do more in preventive care and increase engagement with policyholders and potential customers. Then, in turn, interest from policyholders who want to live healthier lives rather than get sick, as it means they need to make a claim. Our platform is a great solution for both,” Wong says.

“The insurers themselves may not want to build and maintain such a vast network of services. It is expensive, not just on the technology front, but also you need a cross-regional team to manage the platform. We solve all of that for them by providing a scalable solution that is easy to integrate into their existing tech stack and meets their internal requirements. For example, we could deliver access to HKBN in less than one month and launch phase one with a regional insurer in two months.”

Also Read: AI-powered insurtech startup Sunday acquires KSK Insurance Indonesia

“Furthermore, through our platform, we also have access to many anonymous end-user data points that our analytics can turn into meaningful insights that help insurers and employers build engagement plans with their stakeholders.”

In its expansion to SEA, MixCare Health wants to focus on Thailand and Singapore, followed by Malaysia and the Philippines. Companies have approached the company to replicate its partnership model in Hong Kong; it has also hired a country manager in Thailand.

“We believe there is a total serviceable, obtainable market of US$1 billion for MixCare to aim for across the broader Asian region – that includes Hong Kong, South Korea and also our target markets in SEA,” Wong explains. “Our solution is proven and scalable, and we have already shown that we can partner effectively, so we are excited to pursue our growth strategy.”

When asked about insights they can share about the SEA market, Wong says that while the COVID-19 pandemic is considered over in many regions, it has increased awareness of health and wellbeing. It also highlights the urgency of digital transformation.

“In each of these markets, you have tech-savvy populations using their devices to look for new solutions to help them live healthier lives. They also want choice, so one person may need short-term mental health support to help them through a particular struggle, while another may benefit from acupuncture treatment for muscle pain,” Wong says.

“Health and life insurers are looking to build ecosystems to meet that need, and employers are also looking to leverage these services to help them retain their talent. That’s creating a great opportunity for MixCare Health and our platform.”

Also Read: Why the digital ecosystem is key to transforming the insurance industry

Beyond the expansion

Apart from its expansion plan to SEA, MixCare Health also aims to continue growing in its home market in Hong Kong. Apart from adding more business partners, it also wants to raise funding to support its growth.

“Regarding our technology, we are adopting generative AI technology to streamline internal operations and customer service. We are also utilising the wellness and medical data we collect to provide more data-driven health recommendations and insights to end-users, insurers and employers,” Wong says.

“We’ve achieved a lot in our first three years, and we expect that appetite for our services will continue to grow.”

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Image Credit: MixCare Health

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In a world grappling with multiple crises, achieving gender equality has never been more essential.

The tech industry thrives on innovation, yet a stubborn bias persists: women continue to face systemic prejudice and discrimination that hinder their advancement.  This disparity, despite progress towards inclusivity, creates a frustrating loop that reinforces stereotypes. 

Breaking these stigmas is imperative for creating a more inclusive and diverse workforce where women are empowered to thrive and contribute to innovation on equal footing with their male counterparts.

This International Women’s Day is a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for women’s rights and dignity, which is not just a matter of social justice but also a cornerstone for fostering a more inclusive, prosperous and equitable future for all.

“Gender bias in the tech industry has been pervasive. While progress has been made, there is still more to be done. This mission begins with early education, where educational institutions should nurture and encourage women to enter the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) field and provide mentorship, which helps to increase tech talent. Workplaces also play a vital role by offering flexible work policies that foster a supportive culture while ensuring fair salaries and opportunities. Government efforts such as Women In Tech provide a platform for women to seek support and resources in their careers. Ultimately, achieving gender inclusivity is a shared responsibility that falls on every stakeholder in society,” says Penny Chai, Vice President of Business Development APAC at Sumsub.

Navigating gender inequality: Challenges and catalysts for change

The world faces a multitude of complex challenges, from pandemics and global conflicts to the ever-present threat of climate change. In the midst of these uncertainties, achieving gender equality emerges not just as a moral imperative but as a cornerstone for building a more prosperous, just, and sustainable future. 

Yet, despite significant strides made in recent years, the path towards true equality remains riddled with obstacles. Women continue to face systemic barriers and underrepresentation across various facets of life.

According to a JP Morgan Private Banking study, only 5.7 per cent of the total high-growth private businesses were founded or led by women across APAC. Lennise Ng, CEO and Co-Founder of Borong, points out that even today, there are investors in the market who maintain biases against female founders, contributing to the underrepresentation of women in the investment space. This imbalance directly affects the fundraising efforts of women-led businesses, which is crucial for sustaining high-growth enterprises requiring substantial capital.

This stark reality is reflected in the staggering US$360 billion annual deficit in global spending on gender equality measures. The ramifications of this gap are undeniable, with an estimated 75 million people falling into poverty since 2020. This economic burden is projected to disproportionately affect women, with projections suggesting that over 342 million women and girls will be living below the poverty line by 2030.

Also Read: The climate change and gender equality connection: How to support underfunded women-owned business

Jiwon Park, the Founder of SAIB, a sexual wellness startup in Korea, highlighted the entrenched gender bias in her country. She said, “In the specific context of Korea, where societal conservatism and patriarchal values persist, the challenges of gender bias are compounded by double standards. Despite a growing openness among the younger generation about matters of sexuality, there remains a significant conservative undertone, particularly when it comes to female sexuality. The societal expectation for Korean women to present themselves as sexually reserved, feigning inexperience and naivety, contributes to perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

Public discussions about women’s sex lives are met with severe consequences, including slut-shaming and, in extreme cases, misogynistic hate crimes. These deeply ingrained biases and societal expectations not only hinder open conversations about sexual wellness but also contribute to an environment where women are discouraged from embracing and expressing their sexual agency.”

In the male-dominated sexual wellness industry, Park faced constant underestimation, often being dismissed when trying to make safer and female-friendlier condoms. This pervasive gender bias became the catalyst for change, driving her to found SAIB. This intimate cosmetics brand, its name a clever reversal of the word ‘bias’, includes Korea’s first-ever line of condoms explicitly marketed toward women. Through SAIB, Park empowers women to discuss and explore their sexual health openly, challenging societal norms and dismantling long-standing restrictions on conversations surrounding female sexual well-being.

Unfortunately, the situation in Southeast Asia has also not improved significantly. “Up till today, there are still investors in the market that maintain biases against female founders, like when they hold certain stereotypes about women’s interests, capabilities, and career trajectories. Across SEA, there’s this thing called the ‘bro culture’. This ‘bro culture’ is typically practised during various business meetings and networking sessions that happen after working hours – and it takes extra effort for women to break through that,” Ng added. 

Funding disparity: Obstacles and champions

The venture capital landscape paints a disheartening picture of gender disparity. Despite their immense potential and contributions, female entrepreneurs receive a meagre two per cent of all VC funding. This persistent gender gap in investment remains a major hurdle, hindering female-led businesses from accessing the resources needed for growth and innovation.

Pocket Sun, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at SoGal Ventures sheds light on this discrepancy: “As a student studying entrepreneurship at USC, I noticed an inequity in the speakers who were coming to speak. Few to none were women and diverse, and I wanted to create a community to combat this. I created the SoGal community in LA, which is now one of the largest global networks for women entrepreneurs and investors, with over 256,000 members across 50 chapters on six continents. When we were raising our first fund, we were told by many LPs that investing in women wasn’t a thesis. Three unicorns and a top-decile fund later, I’m proud to say we have proved them wrong.”

Women entrepreneurs often lack the same capital confidence as their male counterparts. Funds are predominantly directed towards businesses led by men, creating a cycle where women struggle to access sufficient capital. This results in prolonged fundraising periods of Six to 36 months, diverting attention from scaling their businesses and hindering decision-making. 

Jennifer Cheng Lo, Founder and Director of NewChic Capital, initially opted to bootstrap her early entrepreneurial endeavours, a risky but empowering decision that ultimately led to successful exits and IPOs, solidifying her roles as both an entrepreneur and an investor.

“Specific instances of gender bias I’ve experienced early in my career was feeling like I was being held to higher expectations and performance standards to fulfil the same managerial role as a male counterpart.  This led to me realising metaphorically that the only way to have a seat at the table was to create my own table, not try to sit at other tables, and invite my own friends to sit at my table. 

As I’ve always been entrepreneurial, I was motivated to start my own ventures, and I also took the initiative of starting my own Family Office (after an exit, which is also entrepreneurial), and even now collaborate with some of the best female entrepreneurs and female-led funds as an LP, co-investor, partner, and more because I wanted to minimise the chances I would continue to experience gender bias,” she shared. 

Pocket Sun and Jennifer Cheng Lo are more than just investors; they’re advocates for women entrepreneurs. Pocket, known as the “gold medal coach for women founders,” takes pride in her role as a cheerleader, advocate, and connector for her fellow entrepreneurs. Jennifer, on the other hand, sees herself as a disruptor, challenging systemic biases and levelling the playing field for diverse entrepreneurs. She invests not only capital but also her time and expertise, supporting, advising, and collaborating with female entrepreneurs and funders. By investing in diverse entrepreneurs and fund managers, Pocket and Jennifer are not only supporting individual founders but also driving innovation and economic growth.

Advancing towards equity

Despite ongoing challenges, women are making significant strides in dismantling the status quo. Positive developments are increasingly visible, with women actively driving change across various sectors.

Also Read: From behind a women’s lens: Establishing a footing in the male-dominated VC industry

“While the road is not without obstacles, I remain optimistic about the landscape and the increasing recognition of the valuable contributions of women entrepreneurs in the tech sector. In our portfolio, three out of 10 companies have at least one female founder, reflecting positive progress. While acknowledging persistent challenges, we approach them as opportunities for positive change. We always strive to embrace the strengths that women bring to entrepreneurship, such as their collaborative nature, sensitivity, and prudence,” said Erika Dianasari Go, Partner, Value Creation at Alpha JWC Ventures.

In a positive step towards gender parity, governments are allocating a portion of investments in certain VC funds specifically to support female founders. We’re also seeing a growing number of women entering the ranks of venture capital firms and securing leadership positions, contributing to a more diverse and inclusive decision-making landscape.

“As the Head of Growth Marketing at Choco Up, I was excited to join a company that solves a problem many female founders face: lack of access to capital. Choco Up is providing an innovative financing solution called revenue-based financing (RBF) that is filling an important gap in Singapore’s funding landscape. Positioned between traditional funding sources such as venture capital and banks, RBF can be especially useful for businesses that may not be a perfect fit for these more conventional options.” Niki Torres, Head of Growth Marketing, Choco Up.

This ongoing progress towards a more inclusive fundraising landscape for female-led startups brings increased opportunities and support. Investing in female founders creates a ripple effect, empowering not only individuals but also entire ecosystems.

Investing in women: Driving economic and social progress

Investing in women is not simply a matter of doing the right thing; it is an economic and social imperative. Studies consistently demonstrate that companies with diverse leadership teams outperform their less diverse counterparts. By fostering gender equality, we unlock economic growth and a more just and equitable society, paving the way for a future where everyone, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to thrive.

On this International Women’s Day, let us echo the call to invest in women in order to accelerate progress. We can all play a part in challenging the status quo and building a brighter future. This includes supporting women-owned businesses, amplifying their voices, advocating for change through policy and action, and investing in our growth and potential.

By taking these steps together, we can break down the barriers that hold women back and unlock the immense potential that lies in the spirit of inclusiveness. Let us commit to creating a world where the stories of successful women entrepreneurs are not the exception but the norm. As Bell Beh, who co-founded  BuzzAR, a metaverse startup, said it best, “It’s time for the Yin energy to shine together with Yang.”

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Image credit: Adobe Firefly

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In a transformative exploration of customer engagement, the event, “The Future of Customer Experience: Journeying into Conversational, Personalized, and AI-Driven Engagements,” organised by Vonage in partnership with e27, gathered industry leaders at the Pullman Jakarta, Thamrin on February 29. This exclusive event provided a unique platform for thought leadership, insightful discussions, and practical demonstrations aimed at shaping the trajectory of customer interactions.

At the forefront of this event was Vonage, a global leader in cloud communications helping businesses accelerate their digital transformation and a part of Ericsson. Renowned for pioneering innovative technologies, Vonage specialises in delivering seamless and personalised communication experiences. With a commitment to driving the evolution of customer engagement, Vonage’s thought leadership and demo during the event provided attendees with a glimpse into the future of customer interactions, showcasing practical solutions that bridge the gap between technology and human-centric experiences.

Vonage’s thought leadership session and demo highlighted the company’s vision for the future of customer experience. Attendees were treated to a demonstration that underscored Vonage’s commitment to practical solutions, illustrating how businesses can intelligently use tools to connect with customers on a deeper level.

Panel discussion highlights

Empathy in customer relations: Where the customer reigns supreme

The panel discussion brought forth the timeless truth that the “Customer is King,” underscoring the need for genuine empathy in customer relations. The consensus was that, despite technological advancements, understanding and resonating with the customer’s needs remain paramount.

Smart tools for assistance: Striking the right balance

Panellists urged businesses to be smart about utilising tools that assist customers. They emphasised the importance of finding the delicate balance between leveraging technology for efficiency and maintaining a human touch in customer interactions.

Also read: Moving to Japan is a big step – but one that is getting smaller

Triggers, timing, and messages: Crafting the perfect customer experience

Finding the right triggers at the right time with the right message emerged as a key theme. The panellists stressed the significance of crafting personalised, timely messages that resonate with customers, creating a more meaningful and impactful customer experience.

AI and data analytics: Beyond bombarding customers

The power of AI and data analytics was highlighted not as a tool for bombarding customers but as a means to gather and analyse customer information intelligently. The panellists discussed leveraging AI to determine customer needs by aggregating available information, providing a more targeted and relevant experience.

AI as an enabler: Moving beyond chatbots

The discussion challenged the notion that AI is solely synonymous with chatbots. Panellists emphasised that AI is a powerful enabler, capable of enhancing the overall customer experience. By understanding the nuances of customer interactions, AI can contribute to creating a more tailored and efficient service.

Omnichannel strategy: Knowing, not just being present

The concept of omnichannel strategy was clarified as not just being present on every channel but truly knowing the customer across all channels. The panellists emphasised the importance of understanding customer behaviour and preferences consistently, ensuring a seamless experience across various touchpoints.

Also read: GB Helios: Empowering SMEs with tailored and innovative financial solutions

SEA’s mobile-first economy: Respect in communication

In the context of Southeast Asia’s (SEA) mobile-first economy, the panellists acknowledged the prevalence of communication on platforms like WhatsApp. A key takeaway was the importance of respecting the client’s personal space and avoiding spam. Communicating meaningful information was emphasised as crucial in this era of constant connectivity.

As the event concluded, it became evident that the future of customer experience hinges on a delicate balance between technology and empathy. Through its thought leadership and active participation in the panel discussion, Vonage showcased its commitment to driving this transformative journey. The event catalysed industry leaders to collectively shape a customer-centric future, acknowledging the evolving landscape while prioritising the human element in every interaction.

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This article is produced by the e27 team, sponsored by Vonage

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