AI is quickly becoming prevalent in many business processes. For professionals in the field of marketing and outreach, 76 per cent are using AI tools for content and copy generation, and 71 per cent have used AI as part of their creative thinking process. This rise on the side of creators has been met with positive reactions from consumers.

A report by Capgemini Research Institute shows that 73 per cent of consumers trust AI-generated content and are comfortable relying on AI to help with financial planning, medical advice, and relationship tips.

However, AI isn’t the solution for every aspect of marketing. Despite the advancements in chatbots, up to 46 per cent of consumers still prefer speaking to a human agent. Finding the right balance between personalisation and automation is a key factor in the level of success that businesses can have with these tools.

Here are five key marketing activities that businesses should be doing and the AI tools to get the most mileage.

Market research

Market research is the start. Knowing the trends in your industry, target market, and buyer insights set the parameters for your marketing efforts. 

Traditionally, teams will go through secondary research and online data, a laborious process that can be made easier by the following tools:

Gong tracks all the interactions with your customers to identify sales opportunities and pain points and outlines common objections and questions to get your team better prepared.

TL;DV is an AI-powered meeting recorder that stores and analyses customer interviews in one place. The keyword function enables your team to find every mention of a specific word or topic without going through entire recordings.

At this stage, AI is a lifesaver, but it’s a tool for analysing primary data and doesn’t conduct the research for you. You still need to understand your customers well to formulate effective communication and know how to approach them to get real insights.

Target audience segmentation

After knowing your market, it is time to segment your audience based on their specific needs and goals, factoring in company size, location, industry, budget, and business objectives.

Also Read: Embracing AI’s promise: Navigating the future of marketing

Peak.ai processes your business data and identifies relevant audience segments that match your ideal customer profiles. Segments can be further sorted by industries where specific solutions are needed, or by their funnel stage (awareness, consideration, decision) to deliver targeted messages that increase your closing chances.

While AI excels at data analysis and predictions, it can’t replace the human touch. You need personalised communication from your team to create a strong first impression that builds genuine connections with potential customers.

Brand building and content marketing

After mapping your market landscape and customer profiles, you can begin creating your content strategy to raise awareness and turn prospects into clients! 

For this part, using a series of tools, you can create an intuitive workflow:

• ChatGPT or Google Gemini to generate ideas and content pieces
• Grammarly to sharpen the grammar quality
• Notion to organise your content roadmap and team responsibilities 

With our prompts, providing enough details and context, clear desired outcomes, incorporating synonyms, and using causative language will give us options for a cleaner starting point. We recommend looking through this guide for a clearer picture.

From here, it is important to take over. Always proofread the results of your prompts for grammar and fact-checking in case of AI hallucinations. Also, this is a good chance to make edits so it sounds the way it should – written by you and your brand.

Outbound marketing

Now you’re ready to approach your clients. With these tools, they’ll notice you faster, and be encouraged to take the next steps:

Instantly.ai is a cold email software that helps with B2B lead generation. Features like the automated email warmup that warms up your sending email address to avoid being flagged as spam, and their lead finding and management feature help find and organise potential customer information streamline the process.

Apollo.io is designed to be a one-stop solution for B2B outreach. Access to decision-maker databases, email outreach automation, and sales engagement management tools that provide insight across the entire process with analytics letting you know what works.

However, automation at scale doesn’t work with personalisation. Customers want genuine connections with industry experts who understand their specific needs.

Also Read: These 5 companies showcase the power of martech in driving efficient, personalised marketing strategies

A case study we did for one of our clients in the health tech space revealed that our initial approach with a call to action for a discovery call didn’t convert get the results we wanted, sometimes a direct call to action can work, but in this case prospective buyers were not ready to discuss with a business they didn’t know.

Then we shifted our approach to invite prospects for a quick interview to share their insights and challenges they faced with health product design and impact measurement with our client. This adjustment led to a higher hit rate, and through the conversations, the prospects became warm leads, all built from genuine connections that automation couldn’t achieve.

Performance analysis and optimisation

For the final step, reviews and analyses of your marketing activities to chart your progress need to be done regularly.

Customfit.ai offers A/B testing functionalities to compare different versions of your websites and landing pages, with tools to segment dynamic content blocks for different visitors, and in-depth analytics. Their no-code interface makes it easy for your marketing team to dive right in.

Marketing audit

We’ve gone through five marketing activities businesses should engage in, and the AI tools to do so more efficiently. With so many levers and dials at your fingertips, it can be daunting to know where to start.

A marketing audit can put everything in perspective and help check your blind spots. For some businesses, spending money on new channels might seem like a great idea, when in reality, tweaks to existing channels would get results faster and cheaper.

An effective marketing audit will give you a workable blueprint that combines personalisation and automation in an ideal configuration for your business.

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In today’s fast-paced corporate landscape, the role of the second-in-command (2IC) or Chief Operating Officer (COO) is increasingly recognised as pivotal for organisational success. This article delves into the nuanced dynamics of this role, exploring its significance, diverse responsibilities, critical attributes, challenges, and strategies for empowerment.

Significance of the second-in-command

More than 40 per cent of leading global companies hire a COO, highlighting the widespread acknowledgement of the value this role brings to organisations. While some second-in-commands may not hold the official title of COO, their responsibilities often mirror those of traditional COOs, making them indispensable partners to CEOs in steering the company towards its objectives.

Whether it’s managing day-to-day operations, spearheading strategic projects, or aligning various departments, the second-in-command plays a crucial role in translating vision into action.

Variety in roles and responsibilities

The job of a COO is highly adaptable and multifaceted, tailored to meet the specific needs and circumstances of the organisation. Second-in-commands take on a variety of responsibilities, highlighting their versatility and impact within companies. From serving as executors who drive operational efficiency to acting as change agents who lead transformative initiatives, second-in-commands bring a range of skills and perspectives to the table.

Also Read: Confessions of a founder: There’s no fun in fundraising in 2024

In addition, mentors play a vital role in aiding future leaders, while partners collaborate closely with CEOs to enhance organisational effectiveness. Heirs apparent stand ready to succeed CEOs, ensuring smooth transitions and continuity in leadership, while MVPs contribute specialised expertise that is deemed invaluable to the company’s success.

Attributes of success

Successful second-in-commands possess a unique blend of qualities that enable them to thrive in their roles. Acuity, or the ability to quickly grasp complex concepts and juggle multiple tasks effectively, allows them to navigate through ambiguity and make informed decisions in fast-paced environments.

Organisation skills are essential for setting clear priorities, allocating resources efficiently, and maintaining focus amidst competing demands. Moreover, focus on process and structure enables second-in-commands to streamline operations, foster accountability, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. By embodying these attributes, they create a framework for success that underpins the organisation’s long-term viability and competitiveness.

Scarcity and resurgence

Despite their critical role, genuine second-in-commands remain relatively scarce in comparison to CEOs. However, there has been a noticeable resurgence in the prevalence of COOs in recent years, reflecting a growing recognition of their value in driving organisational performance and resilience.

Challenges faced

Modern second-in-commands confront a host of challenges, both internal and external, that test their leadership capabilities and resilience. External challenges such as talent shortages, digital disruption, and supply chain disruptions require agile responses and strategic foresight.

Internally, navigating through role ambiguity, fostering alignment amidst changing priorities, and fostering a culture of innovation pose significant hurdles. Additionally, the pressure to deliver results while managing operational complexities can strain even the most seasoned second-in-command.

Empowerment through upskilling and development

Investing in the development and upskilling of second-in-commands is important for unlocking their full potential and driving organisational growth. Providing opportunities for continuous learning, leadership development programs, and access to coaching and mentorship can enhance their effectiveness and confidence in tackling complex challenges.

Also Read: How startups can overcome the AI talent death

Also, leveraging innovative tools and technologies can empower second-in-commands to drive process improvements, enhance decision-making, and accelerate the achievement of strategic objectives.

Strategies for empowerment and growth

Empowering second-in-commands requires a strategic approach that encompasses both individual development and organisational support. Providing targeted COO coaching and mentorship tailored to their unique needs and challenges can foster personal and professional growth, while also strengthening their alignment with the CEO’s vision and priorities.

In addition, investing in tools and systems that streamline operations, enhance communication, and facilitate data-driven decision-making can amplify the impact of second-in-commands and drive organisational performance.

Fostering peer support and collaboration

Participation in second-in-command peer groups offers a valuable platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. These forums provide opportunities for second-in-commands to exchange insights, best practices, and lessons learned, thereby enriching their leadership capabilities and expanding their perspectives.

Moreover, peer support networks can serve as a source of encouragement, accountability, and inspiration, particularly during challenging times.

The role of the second-in-command is far more than a supporting act; it is a strategic imperative for modern organisations seeking to thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive business environment.

By recognising the significance of this role, investing in the development and empowerment of second-in-commands, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, organisations can unlock their full potential and achieve sustainable growth and success.

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Singapore-headquartered last-mile internet connectivity startup Transcelestial Technologies recently inked a collaboration with commercial space station Axiom Space. The move aims to redefine space communications for government and commercial customers in Southeast Asia.

Together, both parties aim to revolutionise space-based cloud infrastructure interoperability using optical inter-satellite links.

e27 spoke with Transcelestial founder and CEO Rohit Jha to learn more about this collaboration.

Below are the edited excerpts:

How did the collaboration between Transcelestial and Axiom Space come about? Can you provide more details on the specific objectives and goals of the collaboration?

Transcelestial was introduced to Axiom Space by our investor EDBI. The Axiom Space team was quite impressed by our ongoing capabilities both technically and operationally in using lasercomms for delivering ubiquitous internet coverage together with our telco partners. We continued exploring this and saw a distinct opportunity to leverage each other’s strengths.

Our objectives include developing laser communication technologies for space applications, enhancing the capabilities of orbital data centres, both large-scale and edge data centres in orbit and achieving significant milestones related to delivering a secure fabric in space in the coming years. This will include some in-orbit testing next few years followed by operational testing and deployments with our customers.

Could you elaborate on the technical challenges that need to be addressed to achieve interoperability between laser comms networks and orbital data centres?

We want to further the goal of creating an interplanetary network.

Step one is establishing a network that can effectively handle Data in Rest and Data in Motion.

Also Read: Transcelestial gets US$10M funding boost to expand its lasercomms tech into US, ramp up in Asia

Data in Motion will be delivered by our Lower Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellite “Ring” network of relays in orbit using our proprietary Laser Communication terminals embedded in LEO satellites. These terminals are relayed to other LEO satellites, space stations, and later, other Middle Earth Orbit (MEO) and Geostationary Equatorial Orbit (GEO) installations in deep space. A network of optical ground stations distributed around key cities will keep our terrestrial internet infrastructure always connected to our ring wrapping the Earth.

Data in Rest is enabled by full Cloud capabilities lifted into Orbit. This includes the independent ability to compute, store, cache, and provide accelerated insights (via GPUs and FPGAs). This capability needs ultra-high bandwidth provided by laser comms (eg datacenters today require stable power and high-speed fibre optics connectivity).

To make this happen, the current high-density commercially available storage and compute solutions need to be rapidly tested, protected and qualified in space, especially in LEO.

What specific technologies will be shared and developed during the technical exchange with Axiom Space?

From Transcelestial’s side, we will be sharing an optical terminal capable of autonomously and independently connecting to and receiving signals from both in-orbit (other LEO vehicles) and on-ground infrastructure. This is technology being built in Transcelestial’s Singapore headquarters.

Along with it, there will be a network management system which will intelligently be able to schedule connections between a test vehicle (either Transcelestial’s or client’s) in orbit with Axiom’s test vehicle.

As a secondary objective, we will also be testing connections down to our mass-manufacturable prototype Optical Ground Station which is currently being tested and developed at our Singapore headquarters.

How do optical inter-satellite links improve space communications compared to traditional methods?

Laser inter-satellite links offer significantly higher data transfer rates compared to traditional radio frequency (RF) methods (technical note below).

For example, traditional RF technologies on earth and space typically only do up to 1Gbps and in some cases 10Gbps as state of the art. We started our first product with 10Gbps data rate capabilities, testing 40Gbps now and on a path to do 100Gbps-1Tbps shortly, even beyond.

Also Read: ‘Internet penetration won’t be enough to bring everyone online’: Rohit Jha of Transcelestial

Greater bandwidth availability allows for the transmission of larger volumes of data, supporting more complex and data-intensive applications. Laser links also provide a higher level of security due to the difficulty of intercepting laser signals compared to RF signals, making it an ideal choice for primary connectivity for any sensitive, national security-related use cases. This is nothing different from the concept of “lasers in pipes” aka the fibre cables we use today, which already power the connectivity for the world’s undersea and data centres.

How does this collaboration fit into Transcelestial’s long-term strategic vision for space communications? What potential industries and applications do you foresee benefiting the most from space-based cloud infrastructure and optical communication networks?

Transcelestial’s mission is to build capabilities (technology and services) that are needed for humanity’s communication needs. We first identified what we now call the Global Internet Distribution problem — a systematic series of complex failures at the urban level, inter-city level and inter-country to continent level that results in most people in the world being “under-connected” (i.e. poor access to bandwidth, bad latency to the nearest multi-cloud gateway and very high price to pay).

We need to solve these challenges both at an urban level distribution alongside a national and international level distribution to address all of the problems. While this provides a new era of a secure internet fabric, away from the crumbling unreliable and insecure Internet distribution we are used to, it is also simultaneously poised to uplift billions into a secure, affordable internet here on Earth and scale to support our efforts in deep space.

How do you anticipate this collaboration will impact the commercial, civil, and defence markets in Southeast Asia? What kind of new products and services do you expect to emerge from the successful deployment of orbital data centres and space optical communications?

We hope to test a variety of services such as faster internet exchanges in Southeast Asia, more efficient and low cost per bit Content Delivery Network capabilities and very immediately, provide a platform to serve emerging small to medium AI models to sit nearer to the people who will be interacting with it.

We look forward to working with more space station and orbital structure providers in using this upcoming capability to generate early revenue by converting them to internet exchanges or neutral host cloud exchanges, with better network access to the worldwide population than the data centres of today. With a global lower latency and edge data centre capabilities in LEO, we also encourage many young minds and enterprises to think of ways new apps, technologies and services can be brought to commercial, civil and defence markets.

Also Read: Transcelestial aims to help telcos roll out 5G rapidly and cost effectively in SEA

Closer to home, when you consider the likes of Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines, Southeast Asia collectively has more than 30,000 islands. For now, every network requires an undersea cable which is complex to build and maintain. We have used lasercomms on terrestrial areas to deliver connectivity to Sabah, Sarawak, and Penang in Malaysia (recently commended by Malaysia’s Communications Minister). We expect our space capabilities to allow us to expand these capabilities to islands further away in these archipelagoes.

How does Transcelestial plan to leverage this partnership to grow its commercial networks and diversify its supply chains? What role does Singapore’s Office for Space Technology & Industry (OSTIn) play in supporting this collaboration?

We are focused on vertically integrating as much as possible to allow for engineering and cost efficiencies. Our goal, with the help of Austin and other local partners, would be to establish a local manufacturing and supply chain which can vertically facilitate build-up. We also have very trusted partners providing various subsystem components for our CENTAURI terrestrial platform today. They have worked with us to achieve scale and cost that we desire and we are proceeding to work with or build a similar mindset in the ecosystem when it comes to scale.

There are various ways, financially and qualitatively, the team at OSTIn has worked with us to get here – working on the feedback from the ecosystem to change and adapt to the needs of many young nimble but promising startups here building rockets, engines, satellite bus and other technologies. We look forward to continue working with the team.

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Germany has ambitious climate goals. Under the Federal Climate Protection Act, for example, it aims to become greenhouse gas neutral by 2045. In the shorter term, it is looking to cut emissions by at least 65 per cent by 2030 and 88 per cent by 2040, compared to 1990 levels. This regulatory roadmap underscores Germany’s dedication to climate protection, propelling growth in renewable energy, energy efficiency technologies, and sustainable transportation.

In fact, in recent years, climate tech has contributed significantly, making up 15 per cent of Germany’s GDP, with a noteworthy €5 million (US$5.4 million) investment for green tech products launched in 2023. Today, one in three German startups is involved in the green economy, proving the sector’s potential and supply of opportunities.

Germany has cemented its position as a leader in the production of climate technologies in Europe, particularly in wind power, solar energy, heat pumps, batteries and electrolysers. According to a report by DealRoom, Europe is one of the fastest-growing regions for climate tech, with investments growing seven times since 2016, compared to the already booming 1.7 times in Asia.

These aggressive climate targets and robust infrastructure, combined with the rapidly growing support network from the government, make it increasingly easier for startups to enter the market and thrive in it.

For instance, Germany has taken significant strides in climate and environmental-related policies and regulations, as well as funding and support initiatives, which have created new business opportunities for companies.

Regulations and policies

EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) and National ETS

This scheme covers the power sector, heavy industry, and aviation, setting a cap on greenhouse gases that can be emitted, and encouraging companies to reduce emissions or purchase allowances.

Energiekonzept 2050

The policy outlines a comprehensive strategy for a transition to a more efficient and renewable energy supply, focusing on making electrical devices, buildings, and transportation more efficient. It not only underscores the shift towards renewable energy but also presents opportunities in energy efficiency technologies, renewable energy production, and smart grid solutions.

Also Read: Balancing act: Carbon Balance’s quest to tackle climate crises with tech-driven sustainability

Corporate sustainability and due diligence

At the EU level, the Corporate Sustainable Due Diligence Directive proposes strict requirements for companies regarding ESG due diligence. This includes preparing climate protection plans aligned with the shift to a sustainable economy. Once implemented, the directive will ensure that companies align their business models with limiting global warming to 1.5°C, impacting executive remuneration based on target achievement.

The European green deal

This initiative aims for the EU to become a modern, resource-efficient, and competitive economy, with no net emissions of greenhouse gases by 2050 and economic growth decoupled from resource use. It includes actions such as modernising the management of industrial emissions, accelerating the roll-out of electricity grids, proposing a new forest monitoring law, and presenting a European Wind Power Action Plan.

Carbon Contracts for Difference for heavy industry emissions

To support heavy industries like steel, cement, and chemicals towards climate neutrality, Germany introduced a subsidy program with Carbon Contracts for Difference (CCfDs). These contracts compensate companies for the extra costs incurred from adopting climate-friendly production methods.

The program is designed to secure the future competitiveness of German industries by encouraging investments in carbon-neutral technologies, offering a significant opportunity for companies to invest in and develop carbon-neutral technologies.

Funding support and initiatives

Deep Tech and Climate Fund (DTCF)

Established by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action and the Federal Ministry of Finance, this initiative aims to invest in companies developing forward-looking technologies, with support of up to €1 billion (US$1.08 billion) in the coming years.

The fund invests in deep tech areas such as Industry 4.0, robotics, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, process automation and companies with a technology-based business model such as digital health, new energy, smart city, new materials and selected biotech areas.

European Investment Bank (EIB) funding

The EIB Group has also been actively supporting the green transition in Germany, increasing its financing signed for green and innovative projects in Germany to €8.6 billion (US$9.374 billion) last year

Grants for startups

Organisations in Germany have also started to recognise the importance of supporting startups in helping the country pursue a cleaner future. High-Tech Gründerfonds, for example, has invested in many startups across various different areas of sustainability since 2005. Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt also has a funding support initiative in place for startups, for up to €125,000 (US$136,250) per project over a term of 24 months.

There’s also Planet-A Ventures, which seeks to, as it puts it, “support founders tackling the world’s environmental problems”. The company focuses on pitches involving climate mitigation, waste prevention, resource efficiency and biodiversity protection, and typically invests from €0.5 million (US$545,000) to 4 million (US$4.36 million).

Seven focus sectors and solutions in demand

In Germany, climate tech offers a vast array of opportunities across numerous sectors, providing an enticing and promising landscape for startups eager to drive meaningful change. Entrepreneurs aiming to venture into Germany’s climate tech sector can explore a diverse range of related industries and sub-industries, such as:

Green mobility

Advancements in battery optimisation and electric vehicle infrastructure are promoting sustainable transportation solutions across Germany.

Also Read: Why these startups focus on informal plastic waste workers in the fight against climate crisis

Solutions in demand: Battery optimisation, electric vehicles and EV batteries, sustainable urban transportation.

Renewable energy

Germany is harnessing solar, wind, and hydrogen technologies to help accelerate its renewable energy goals.

Solutions in demand: Alternative sources of energy such as solar, wind, hydrogen, efficient energy storage and distribution.

Circular economy

Initiatives promoting circular business models aim to minimise waste and maximise resource efficiency in Germany. N&E Innovations is one such company that specialises in circular economy solutions. With its unique technology, Vikang99, it transforms food waste into 100% natural, non-toxic antimicrobial compounds.

Solutions in demand: Circular business models.

Climate fintech

Driving carbon accountability and facilitating emissions trading to support Germany’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

Solutions in demand: Carbon accounting, carbon credits exchange.

Industry decarbonisation

The implementation of innovative technologies aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance sustainability within German manufacturing processes. Companies like Evercomm, a startup participating in Scaler8’s Market Access program, are at the forefront, developing solutions that optimise energy usage, monitor emissions, and promote sustainable practices within manufacturing facilities.

Solutions in demand: GHG/carbon capture and utilisation, sustainable manufacturing.

Built environment

Efforts are underway to spearhead smart city infrastructure and develop sustainable construction materials for eco-friendly urban development in Germany.

Solutions in demand: Smart city infrastructure, energy efficiency and decarbonisation, green building materials.

Agriculture and food

Integration of smart agriculture and biotechnology is fostering sustainable farming practices and alternative protein sources in Germany.

Solutions in demand: Smart agriculture, precision farming, sustainable agrochemicals, biotechnology, alternative proteins.

Leveraging the booming German climate tech landscape

Germany’s climate tech landscape beckons with opportunities for innovation and growth across diverse sectors. With strong government backing and a thriving ecosystem, the country provides an ideal environment for startups aiming to drive positive environmental impact while fostering innovation and sustainability.

If you are a startup looking to enter and thrive in Germany’s climate tech sector, Scaler8 stands ready to empower your journey with the support and resources you need to go further – expert mentorship, market insights, an expansive network, and more. Find out more here.

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The above article was first published on Scaler8.

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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Indonesian microfinance fintech firm Amartha secured a US$17.5 million equity investment from global nonprofit Accion via its Accion Digital Transformation Fund.

The fresh funds aim to help Amartha build a platform using data and AI to provide financial products and services to underserved women-led small businesses in rural Indonesia. They will also enhance Amartha’s MSMEs sector offerings, strengthen audience analytics, and drive digital service adoption to connect more people and businesses to responsible financial services.

In addition to providing investment capital, the Accion Digital Transformation Fund will offer strategic support to enhance customer engagement, operational efficiency, and product innovation through digital technologies.

Established as a microfinance institution in 2010, Amartha became a technology company in 2016. By incorporating an embedded lending and funding model for institutional and retail investors, Amartha streamlines personalised financial solutions.

Amartha offers payment services, a proprietary credit scoring system, and a cross-border funding platform that provides grassroots businesses access to capital, presenting them as profitable and impactful alternatives for institutional investors.

Also Read: Hong Kong-based Buyandship secures US$16M funding led by Altara Ventures

To date, Amartha claims to have disbursed over IDR25 trillion (US$1.6 billion) in working capital to more than 2.5 million women-led businesses in rural and peri-urban areas of Java, Sumatra, Nusa Tenggara, Sulawesi, and Kalimantan.

Ramdhan Anggakaradibrata, Chief Financial Officer of Amartha said, “Amartha and Accion have shared objectives — reducing inequality in access to financial services. We will not only meet the current needs of our customers but also anticipate future trends and challenges. This approach will help us remain at the forefront of fintech innovation, continually evolving to provide cutting-edge financial solutions that empower our customers and drive sustainable growth.”

Managed by Accion Impact Management, the Accion Digital Transformation Fund leverages Accion’s global experience in supporting banks and finance companies to connect millions of people and small businesses to the digital economy. Investments from the US$152.5 million fund focus on MSME-serving companies across South and Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa, providing growth capital and strategic digital transformation support.

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Image credit: Amartha

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GenAI Fund is a new investment vehicle in Vietnam launched early this year by two former AWS veterans with immense experience building startups. The fund, backed by high net-worth individuals, aims to play a pivotal role in fostering innovation and advancing AI technologies in Southeast Asia.

The VC firm was created by Laura Nguyen, who founded and exited an education venture and played a crucial role in expanding Web3 and AI businesses across Southeast Asia for Amazon Web Services (AWS).

e27 caught up with Nguyen to learn more about the fund, its investment thesis and its goals.

Edited excerpts from the interview:

What inspired the founding of GenAI Fund, and what specific market needs does it aim to address in Southeast Asia?

The inspiration behind founding GenAI Fund stems from collaborating with friends to refine a Vietnamese LLM (Large Language Model). Upon presenting our project to VCs, we received feedback indicating their unfamiliarity with this space, particularly in advising on business models and strategic paths for startups.

Recognising this gap, we aim to be at the forefront of understanding founders’ challenges and providing valuable guidance. Our focus lies in Southeast Asia, where our market knowledge enables us to offer tailored support.

For instance, if a founder in Indonesia seeks to develop a Bahasa LLM, we can provide relevant feedback and assistance.

Can you elaborate on GenAI Fund’s investment strategy, mainly its focus on AI-first technology companies and early-stage investments?

GenAI Fund’s investment strategy centres on early-stage investments, aiming to be the pioneering investor for startups in the AI-first technology domain. Our focus is on being the first to provide financial backing to promising founders, coupled with ongoing support beyond the initial investment.

Also Read: Amazon to train 15K individuals in AI skills; to invest US$9B into cloud infra in Singapore

We diligently identify potential founders and offer meaningful connections through our GenAI Builders meetups and peer support via AI Co-working hours (a new concept where we invite select builders to come to an office space to work and learn together).

These initiatives foster a collaborative environment where founders can receive guidance, work alongside peers, and access resources vital for their growth and success.

How does GenAI Fund support the growth and development of the startups it invests in, particularly in terms of iterating through product, market, and technology strategy?

In addition to providing connections meetups, we bridge startups with VCs through GenAI VC Startups Speed Dating Sessions. These sessions enable direct feedback from industry experts — in this case, VCs who have seen different products and can provide feedback.

This early insight aids startups in iterating through product development to identify market fit.

Moreover, we offer technical support by partnering with mentors who provide guidance on GenAI models, benchmarking, and other technological aspects, ensuring startups have the necessary resources to thrive and innovate.

What criteria does GenAI Fund use to evaluate potential investment opportunities in Southeast Asia?

In evaluating potential investment opportunities in Southeast Asia, GenAI Fund considers traditional criteria like founder competence, competitiveness, and defensibility.

Additionally, we prioritise the speed at which the founding team can bring their solution to market and deploy it effectively. In a rapidly evolving landscape, being first to market is crucial for staying relevant and gaining traction.

We also emphasise the importance of creating realistic models rather than over-engineered solutions. Aiming for cost-effective solutions that resonate with customers ensures tangible value and sustainable growth in the long run.

Given your background in technology and entrepreneurship, how do you leverage your experience to support the portfolio companies of GenAI Fund?

Drawing from my background as a two-time startup founder and my involvement in refining the Vietnamese LLM alongside a group of friends, I hope to bring experience to support GenAI Fund’s portfolio companies.

Having navigated the intricacies of model selection, business model development, and cloud infrastructure utilisation, I understand the challenges and pitfalls that startups face, which I share with portfolio companies to help them save costs, leverage available resources efficiently, and expedite their journey to finding product-market fit.

What is the size of the fund? What is the average cheque size? How many companies do you plan to back from this fund?

GenAI Fund is a US$10-million fund. We invest between US$50,000 to US$1 million per startup. We are actively deploying the capital right now.

Looking ahead, what are GenAI Fund’s plans and aspirations for the future in terms of expanding its presence and impact in Southeast Asia’s AI ecosystem?

GenAI Fund is committed to expanding our presence and impact in Southeast Asia’s AI ecosystem. We will strengthen partnerships and grow our network of ecosystem collaborators, recognising the importance of collective support in this dynamic space.

Also Read: Microsoft to empower 2.5M Southeast Asians with AI skills by 2025

Concurrently, we will focus on optimising our existing programmes, such as GenAI Builders meetups, AI Co-working Hours, and GenAI VC Startups Speed Dating Sessions. These initiatives facilitate collaboration and mentorship and provide invaluable insights for peer VCs and startups alike.

By nurturing these connections and initiatives, we aim to deepen our influence and contribute significantly to the growth and development of the AI ecosystem in Southeast Asia.

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The article was first published on May 14, 2024

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MSD, a New York-based research-intensive biopharmaceutical company, has launched IDEA Studios, a new initiative aiming to fund and collaborate with entrepreneurs and early-stage companies focused on delivering transformative healthcare solutions in Asia Pacific and Europe.

Led by MSD Global Health Innovation Fund (MGHIF) and MSD’s regional teams, IDEA Studio Asia Pacific and MSD IDEA Studio Europe will combine the parent company’s corporate venture arm with the deep healthcare expertise of its regional business teams.

MGHIF plans to invest US$38 million in the initiative across both regions over the next three years.

As part of these efforts, MSD business teams in the Asia Pacific and Europe will collaborate closely with MGHIF investors to select and fund local entrepreneurs.

Also Read: Amartha secures US$17.5M from Accion to empower women-led MSMEs

Based in Singapore, IDEA Studio Asia Pacific focuses on enhancing access to vaccinations and cancer therapies. On the other hand, the European unit, based in Berlin, aims to innovate in early disease diagnosis, improve medication adherence monitoring for patients and enhance clinical trial recruitment strategies.

Joseph Romanelli, President of MSD Human Health International said, “We are constantly seeking to apply digital and data science technologies to improve patient outcomes and help accelerate our purpose of saving and improving lives. The launch of MSD IDEA Studios will offer entrepreneurs the opportunity to leverage our deep healthcare expertise to accelerate their impact and achieve meaningful innovation to improve patients’ lives.”

MGHIF is a growth investor partnering with innovative digital health and data science companies that facilitate and optimise biopharmaceutical operations to improve patient care. This investment strategy connects innovative companies with complementary technologies to develop integrated healthcare solutions.

MGHIF has US$500 million under management and provides growth capital to emerging healthcare technology companies worldwide. With a vision that data will be the currency in health care, GHIF invests broadly in digital health. MGHIF invests in platform companies with proven technologies or business models where MSD’s expertise and perspectives can accelerate revenue growth and enhance value creation.

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The Singapore Retailers Association recently confirmed that April’s sales figures have not been favourable, with most retailers reporting negative performance compared to the same period in 2023. Just last week, The Straits Times reported a 1.2 per cent drop in Singapore’s retail sales, performing worse than expected.

With retail spending at a low, the pressing question is: How can Singapore boost retail spending by appealing to Gen Z? Given Gen Z’s global spending power of US$450 billion, tapping into this demographic’s potential through unified commerce could be the solution for enterprising retailers.

Unified commerce and its benefits

Meeting evolving consumer expectations, particularly those of a digitally native Gen Z, requires unified commerce – which leverages technology to let retailers track all data from a single source of customer interaction across multiple channels and stages of shopping.

According to a Salesforce report, 71 per cent of Gen Z shoppers are willing to pay more for excellent customer experiences. A McKinsey report also highlights that customers engage with 3 to 5 channels on average before making a purchase.

Also Read: A paradigm shift on the Z axis: How Gen Z is shaping the new work culture

While the business case for unified commerce is well-established, many retailers are still in the early stages of adoption. 

Unified commerce offers several key benefits:

• Seamless shopping: It connects all sales channels (online, mobile, physical stores), providing customers with a consistent and flexible experience.
• Simplified operations: By consolidating backend and frontend systems, unified commerce streamlines operations and reduces complexity for retailers.
• Centralised data: It allows retailers to track all data from a single source, providing real-time visibility into customer interactions, inventory, sales, and other metrics.
• Real-time insights: This data enables retailers to monitor performance, identify trends, and react quickly to opportunities.
• Personalised experience: Unified commerce helps retailers gain a 360-degree view of customers across all channels, allowing for tailored marketing, product recommendations, and services.

In short, unified commerce empowers retailers to deliver a seamless, personalised, and connected shopping experience that meets the demands of today’s consumers.

The tech and retail situation in Singapore

Singapore presents a compelling case for unified commerce adoption. The city-state’s robust digital infrastructure and strategic regional hub status provide the foundation for seamless online experiences.

Additionally, supportive government policies, exemplified by the Smart Nation Initiative and the recently refreshed Retail Industry Digital Plan (IDP) launched by Enterprise Singapore and IMDA in September 2023, foster a business environment conducive to innovation. 

This commitment translates into concrete resources for retailers, including tools and training to enhance customer experience, optimise operational efficiency, and drive business growth. Compared to more mature markets like the US and UK where digital disruption is forcing adaptation, Singapore offers a unique advantage: a fertile ground for experimentation and accelerated growth in the realm of unified commerce.

Also Read: 5 lucrative strategies Gen Z investors use to empower themselves financially

This strategic positioning equips Singaporean retailers to capitalise on the global shift towards digital commerce and seize emerging opportunities.

Challenges and solutions

Unfortunately, the promise of unified commerce comes with several challenges:

• Outdated systems: Conventional brick-and-mortar retailers often depend on outdated systems that were not originally designed to handle the complexities of digital commerce. Modernisation efforts require strategic investment and phased implementation plans to minimise disruption and optimise cost-effectiveness.
• Data consolidation challenges: Both offline and online channels generate extensive data in disparate formats and standards. Effective data governance strategies are crucial to ensure data integrity and facilitate seamless data consolidation.
• Resistance to cultural change: Internal resistance to change can impede integration efforts within organisations. Overcoming these cultural barriers necessitates buy-in from leadership, comprehensive employee training, and an effective communication strategy.
• Organisational fragmentation: Many companies manage offline and online channels through separate teams, resulting in fragmented customer experiences and disjointed strategies. Breaking down these silos requires a focus on cross-departmental collaboration and establishing clear lines of communication to ensure alignment across the organisation.

Singapore’s retail sector stands at a crossroads. With Gen Z representing a significant portion of global spending power, there is a tremendous opportunity to revitalise the industry by adopting unified commerce.

By leveraging Singapore’s robust digital infrastructure, supportive government policies and innovative spirit, retailers can overcome current challenges and set new standards in customer experience and operational efficiency.

The time to act is now, and the path forward is clear: embrace unified commerce to capture the attention and spending power of Gen Z, ensuring a vibrant and thriving retail landscape for the future.

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The communication and marketing landscape is undergoing a revolution driven by automation advancements. While the efficiency gains offered by hyper-automation, the extensive use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to automate a vast array of processes are undeniable, a more strategic approach lies in embracing human-centric automation.

Beyond efficiency: The drawbacks of excessive automation

Hyper-automation boasts impressive efficiency gains. AI-powered content creation tools can churn out content at an industrial scale, while ML algorithms facilitate laser-focused audience segmentation and campaign targeting. Using automated social media management and real-time chatbots can further enhance efficiency and outreach. However, this over-reliance on automation presents a hidden cost — the erosion of the human element that’s critical for successful communication and effective marketing.

Also read: Fostering inclusion: AI’s role in SEA’s education sector

It is imperative for us to work alongside powerful machines to unlock incredible insights from data as well as to automate repetitive tasks. This frees us to focus on our unique strengths and creativity. For example, in communication and marketing, we have the unique ability to connect through storytelling, building relationships, and understanding emotions. These are areas where AI can’t quite match our ability to connect with the audience.

While AI and automation are valuable tools, relying solely on them can feel impersonal. A social media feed full of robotic messages wouldn’t be very engaging, would it? The key is to leverage the best of both worlds: the efficiency of machines and the human touch that builds trust and loyalty.

People-centric automation: The power of collaboration

Imagine a future where automation works alongside you, not against you. Here, technology takes care of repetitive tasks like data entry and reports, freeing you to focus on what matters most: Strategic planning, creative brainstorming, and crafting captivating content.

Think of AI as your intelligent co-pilot. It gathers valuable insights from data to help you make informed decisions about your content strategy and campaigns. But the final call remains yours. While AI can be a powerful tool for content creation, its true potential shines when combined with the expertise of a communications consultant.

Let’s imagine a situation where a company needs to respond to an ethical and sensitive issue. A communicator with strong communication skills can craft a response that is empathetic and rebuilds trust, while AI can assist with analysing data and providing relevant information to support it.

The synergy of people and machine intelligence

The ideal scenario isn’t a battle between people and machines, but a synergistic collaboration. Imagine streamlined workflows that free up time for creative exploration, allowing teams to experiment with new content formats and storytelling techniques that resonate on a deeper emotional level. Imagine data-driven insights that fuel targeted campaigns that reach the right audience but also speak to their specific desires and aspirations. Imagine forging stronger customer relationships through personalised interactions informed by AI analysis, yet delivered with a person’s touch to help build trust and loyalty.

Also read: OceanBase INFINITY 2024: Pioneering Indonesia’s digital economy

What if the future of communication is shaped by people and machines working seamlessly side-by-side? How can AI and automation empower agency leaders and in-house creative leads? By understanding the role automation plays and its many advantages, we can create a smooth transition for everyone. Equipping employees with the right skills is crucial and this could involve training programs that enhance their creative and strategic thinking, along with data analysis skills to make the most out of the insights provided by automation tools.

The communicator’s edge: Creativity, strategy, and emotional intelligence

While collaboration is key, a more people-centric approach also acknowledges the unique strengths that we bring. Here’s how a communications consultant truly shines in marketing:

• Creativity and Fresh Ideas: Machines can crunch data and spot trends, but they lack that special spark of creativity. A communications consultant can take those insights and turn them into original concepts, captivating stories, and engaging content that grabs the audience’s attention.
• Strategic Vision and Decisions: Effective communication and marketing demands a clear understanding of the overall goals. Communications consultants excel at strategic planning, building long-term objectives, creating brand alignment, and analysing potential challenges and opportunities. These are key judgments that we use to consider to make well-informed choices that could fuel successful campaigns.
• Understanding Our Audience: Building genuine connections with the target audience is crucial for brand loyalty. We have emotional intelligence that allows us to connect with the audience’s needs, desires, and aspirations. With these understandings, we can craft messages that resonate deeply on an emotional level, while building trust at the same time.

Building trust and adaptability in the age of automation

Transparency and trust are the cornerstones of successful communication. By openly explaining the role of automation and its benefits, teams can foster a culture of acceptance and collaboration. Furthermore, a people-centric approach can foster a more adaptable and future-proof marketing team. As AI and automation continue to evolve, teams that have embraced a culture of continuous learning and collaboration will be best positioned to adapt to new technologies and leverage them to their full potential. This ensures that the communication and marketing function remains at the forefront of innovation, consistently delivering value and achieving its strategic objectives.

Also read: Driving innovation and growth in Southeast Asia with Employment Hero

In conclusion, the future of communication and marketing is not a world dominated by machines, but one where our creativity and strategic thinking are amplified by intelligent automation. When founders embrace a more people-centric approach, communication and marketing teams can unlock a future brimming with possibilities, forge deeper connections with their audience, and deliver impactful experiences that resonate further on an emotional level.

Finding the perfect balance can be a challenge, but startups don’t have to go at it alone. Agencies can be valuable partners in this journey since we are constantly on top of the latest trends. Working with an agency will bring a wealth of experience in experimenting with different strategies, allowing you to explore options and discover the perfect fit for success. This will also free you up to focus on your core strengths — building great products and serving happy customers.

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This article is produced by the PRecious Comms team, published by e27

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A passionate golfer, David Wong often found himself struggling to find available golfing companions whenever he had the time to play. This is because the game demands a significant time commitment—approximately 8-9 hours, including travel, preparation, and post-game activities. This proved challenging for many.

Coordinating with fellow busy professionals, who often had conflicting schedules, was nearly impossible. This frustration led Wong to conceive Deemples, an innovative solution akin to the Uber model, where one doesn’t need to know the driver personally but can rely on the availability of many.

Also Read: Malaysian golf course booking platform Deemples nets US$2M from V Ventures

Based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Deemples was envisioned as the “Uber for golfers,” facilitating connections among golfers to ensure that a game could always be arranged regardless of individual schedules.

The name “Deemples” is a clever play on the word “dimples.”

“In the world of golf, dimples on a golf ball are essential for its flight; without them, the ball wouldn’t travel as it should due to aerodynamic principles. Much like these dimples vital for the ball’s flight, Deemples aims to bring together the necessary “dimples”—golfers—so that the game can take off smoothly,” Wong tells e27.

The company was founded in 2017 by Wong, who comes with extensive experience in sales and management within the advertising industry, and Ahmad Daleen (CTO), a self-taught full-stack developer with keen business acumen who previously founded and exited FoodTime to Fave.

A seamless experience for golfers

The Deemples platform is a comprehensive ecosystem for golfers. Users can browse through a vast array of available golf games, join games, interact with fellow golfers, make payments, and leave reviews for both the courses and other players.

For those who don’t find a suitable game, the platform allows them to create their own, attracting other golfers to join. According to Wong, this marketplace model, where Deemples takes a small fee from golf courses for every successful transaction, has been highly effective.

Deemples recently secured US$2 million in funding from Singaporean VC firm V Ventures to expand its presence across Southeast Asia, targeting major golfing markets like Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam.

“Understanding the unique golfing cultures and nuances of each market is crucial for our success. To facilitate this, we plan to allocate significant marketing resources and establish strong local teams in each new market,” he adds.

The investment will also be strategically used to enhance marketing efforts, product upgrades, and overall user experience. Deemples aims to enrich the golfing experience through technological innovations, such as more efficient user interfaces and advanced matchmaking algorithms, ensuring golfers can connect and book games with greater ease.

Building community and expanding partnerships

Engaging with the golfing community and attracting new users is at the core of Deemples’s strategy. Upcoming outreach programmes, golf events, referral schemes, and partnerships with numerous golf courses will play a pivotal role.

“The platform has already seen a surge in new golfers, thanks to golf coaches offering lessons through Deemples. This inclusive approach makes golf more accessible, allowing novices to book affordable lessons easily,” Wong continues.

Also Read: FC Barcelona looks to score big in Asia’s sports-tech arena through its innovation hub

Partnerships with golf courses are fundamental to Deemples’s operations. These collaborations provide golf courses with a consistent sales channel, securing payments upfront and reducing risks associated with last-minute cancellations. Integrating Deemples’s digital capabilities into golf courses’ websites enhances their reach and revenue without requiring separate management systems.

Since its establishment seven years ago, Deemples claims to have demonstrated remarkable growth. Initially functioning solely as a matchmaking service for golfers, the platform expanded in 2020 to include partnerships with golf courses, allowing them to post available tee times.

This integration has led to a doubling of transaction values each year since 2020, reflecting the platform’s growing influence and success, he reveals.

Transformative impact on golf courses

According to the CEO, Deemples has had a profound positive impact on golf courses in Malaysia. By enabling easy and immediate bookings, the platform has significantly boosted revenue and player engagement.

“Some partner golf courses have reported up to 40 per cent of their total sales being generated through our platform. Our technology and growth strategy continue to provide exciting golfing experiences, creative marketing campaigns, and effective monetization of unsold inventories, ensuring a win-win situation for both golfers and golf courses,” he boasts.

In essence, Deemples aims to transform how golf is played and enjoyed. With its innovative approach, the startup is set to make golfing more accessible and enjoyable for enthusiasts across Southeast Asia and beyond.

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Image Credit: Deemples.

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