Damien Keogh, PhD, Director, CEO at BluMaiden Biosciences

BluMaiden Biosciences, a Singapore-based biotech company working in drug discovery, recently announced that it has secured “substantial investment” in a round led by deep tech VC firm Elev8.vc and joined by SEEDS Capital.

The company has developed what they refer to as a transformative approach to small molecule drug discovery, addressing a
significant challenge in the pharmaceutical industry: the limited diversity of chemical compounds in traditional chemical libraries, which restricts the scope of potential drug candidates and hinders innovation in drug discovery.

BluMaiden’s solution involves probing the vast chemical space hidden within the human body, using advanced AI-guided computational genetics and chemistry.

The company’s co-founders are Rohan Williams, Michael Tillmann, and Damien Keogh.

Rohan Williams, Ph.D., is a scientific co-founder at BluMaiden with expertise in bioinformatics and systems biology. He is also the Head of the SCELSE Integrative Analysis Unit. Michael Tillmann, a founding member and Chairman of the Board, has been instrumental in BluMaiden’s growth, leveraging his experience as a former CEO at Roche Diagnostics.

Also Read: Asia’s biotech boom: Innovation, investment, and a new era of discovery

Before founding BluMaiden, Keogh was actively engaged in the biotech sector, including roles in venture capital as an entrepreneur-in-residences, involved in spin-out and venture-created biotech companies, and being an alumnus of Johnson & Johnson Innovation JLABS.

In this email interview with e27, Keogh explains the problems the startup aims to solve and how AI technology helps it achieve these goals.

This is an edited excerpt of the conversation.

What specific problem or need does BluMaiden address, and what inspired you to take on this challenge?

The pharmaceutical industry encounters significant challenges with chemical libraries in small-molecule drug discovery. One key issue is repeated rediscovery of known compounds, which wastes resources without yielding new treatments.

Additionally, these libraries often have molecular biases that limit compound diversity, reducing the likelihood of finding innovative drugs. Since the early 1980s, about 50 per cent of successful FDA-approved small-molecule drugs have been derived from natural products, owing to their structural diversity and biological activities. Nearly half of these are synthetic drugs that mimic natural products.

My motivation to establish BluMaiden comes from my research interest in metabolite biology, which focuses on the mechanisms and effects of small molecules derived from natural products. At BluMaiden, our diverse team explores new chemical spaces within the human body, linking this with clinical data to uncover pharmacological significance.

How does your AI-powered platform integrate computational genetics and chemistry to enhance the drug discovery process? Can you share a specific example of a breakthrough or significant finding your technology has facilitated in drug discovery?

Our AI-guided technology integrates computational genetics and chemistry to improve drug discovery, and we begin by harnessing natural products as a rich reservoir for new small-molecule drug candidates. Our team brings expertise across various scientific and technological domains.

Also Read: Biotech co-working provider NSG BioLabs concludes US$14.5M financing round 

And we have become quite effective at communicating and understanding across these disciplines. We utilise customised machine learning models and advanced feature engineering to extract health-predictive signals from microbiome and clinical data.

We identify novel therapeutic opportunities by analysing long-range semantic relationships within extensive and diverse datasets.

What are the biggest challenges you face in developing and deploying AI algorithms for drug discovery, and how do you tackle them?

We believe that starting from clinical evidence gives us a unique edge and a higher chance of finding safe and effective drugs. This is why we’ve assembled a team of diverse science and technology experts to explore novel chemistry space within the human body, a natural product, and link this with clinical data (human evidence) to provide pharmacological significance.

Obtaining reliable clinical data in sufficient quantity is a crucial challenge for many biotechs, including our early-stage drug discovery programmes. BluMaiden addresses this through our Pharma Services division.

By offering comprehensive services, we aim to gain early access to clinical studies and ensure reliable data generation through a regulatory-compliant, pharma-grade quality management system. This data feeds directly into our drug discovery engine.

The synergistic relationship between these divisions ensures smooth data flow and sustainability for our business.

What is your company’s business model? Who are your users, and how do you acquire them?

We are prioritising sustainability and profitability; from the beginning, we have committed to building a sustainable business model. Despite making some strategic adjustments, we have, for example, successfully developed a globally deployed Pharma Services for clinical trial analytics. As an auditable vendor to clinical trial sponsors, we deliver comprehensive analysis and reporting, including patient stratification, drug responder vs non-responder analysis, end-point optimisation, and more.

Also Read: Forte Biotech: Helping farmers with early detection of prawn diseases in Vietnam

With Amazon AWS, we are recognised as an AWS Qualified Software Provider and have deployed this in key markets in the US and Europe.

What role do partnerships and collaborations play in your approach to leveraging AI for drug discovery?

Partnerships and collaborations are a cornerstone of BluMaiden’s strategy. We’ve established several global partnerships with tech and life science companies to leverage our capabilities to key markets in the USA and Europe. These partnerships are particularly significant for our Pharma Services, enhancing clinical trial decision-making.

These partnerships are also a channel for obtaining reliable and ample clinical data crucial for our early-stage drug discovery programs. By offering comprehensive services, we gain early access to clinical data and ensure high-quality, regulatory-compliant data generation. This data is integrated into our drug discovery engine, fostering a synergistic relationship between our drug discovery division and Pharma Services, promoting efficient data flow and business sustainability.

What are the most exciting developments or future applications you anticipate for your AI-powered drug discovery platform?

There are many exciting prospects, but what excites me the most is the ability to predict previously undiscovered natural products and their signalling targets with a high success rate. This advancement will significantly expand chemical diversity and increase the odds of finding drug-like candidates.

What is your big plan for 2024 and beyond?

Over the past few years, we have built a solid foundation in our R&D and commercial capabilities. In 2024, we aim to significantly advance our drug discovery programs and revenue pipelines through our engagements with Pharma. We aim to establish a self-sustaining venture model for our biotechnology company and demonstrate to our shareholders the benefits of risk-adjusted returns on their investments.

—

Image Credit: BluMaiden

This article was first published on July 30, 2024

The post How BluMaiden uses AI to transform small-molecule drug discovery appeared first on e27.

As environmental concerns continue to escalate globally, one of the most pressing issues today is electronic waste (e-waste). In Singapore, approximately 60,000 tonnes of e-waste are generated annually, with only 17.4% being properly recycled. The rapid pace of technological advancements makes this an even more pressing challenge. As a result, many electronic devices discarded improperly, often ending up in landfills or oceans. The impact of this is far-reaching, threatening both the environment and public health.

To address this urgent issue, the Youth E-Waste Ambassador Program (YEAP) is stepping up as a catalyst for change. Co-hosted by e27 and supported by Meta, YEAP has become a pivotal initiative empowering the youth of Singapore to take charge of e-waste management. For the second consecutive year, e27 is organizing this impactful program to engage young people in responsible e-waste practices. Specifically, it leverages the power of social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook.

Empowering youth to drive change through e-waste awareness

The core mission of YEAP is to raise awareness about e-waste and promote responsible disposal practices among Singapore’s youth. Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, plays a critical role in supporting YEAP. It provides training and resources to help young ambassadors create engaging digital campaigns. As a result, these campaigns drive action and foster discussions around sustainability.

In collaboration with e27, a leading Southeast Asian tech and ecosystem platform, YEAP conducted a digital skills training workshop for program participants. During this workshop, young leaders learned how to effectively use Meta technologies. This includes Instagram Stories, Reels, posts, and Facebook ads. Through these, they craft compelling campaigns that engage their peers and spread awareness about the importance of e-waste management.

By leveraging the visual storytelling capabilities of Instagram and Facebook, YEAP ambassadors are able to amplify their message. In fact, they can reach thousands of youths in Singapore and beyond. Through these platforms, YEAP aims to inspire more than 15,000 young people to take action, understand the importance of e-waste management, and promote responsible disposal practices.

Also read: YEAP joins forces with youths to drive e-waste awareness and sustainable innovation

Growing the community: Facebook Community, workshops, and webinars

Beyond just digital campaigns, YEAP is actively building a community of like-minded individuals through its Facebook Community. This online space serves as a hub where young ambassadors, environmental advocates, and anyone interested in sustainability can connect, share ideas, and collaborate on ways to tackle the growing e-waste issue.

The Facebook Community offers a variety of resources for members. First, they get access to workshops and webinars designed to provide valuable insights into e-waste management and sustainability practices. Second, they become equipped with ways to use social media for environmental advocacy. These sessions are not only educational but also interactive, encouraging participants to share their experiences, ask questions, and learn from experts in the field.

In addition to workshops and webinars, YEAP hosts community-driven campaigns. This is where members can contribute by sharing their personal stories, tips on recycling, and how they are incorporating e-waste management practices into their daily lives. The goal is to foster a strong sense of community, empower youth with the knowledge they need, and encourage collaboration on innovative solutions to the e-waste crisis.

The importance of e-waste management

The need for proper e-waste management cannot be overstated. E-waste contains harmful substances like lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can contaminate water and soil if not disposed of correctly. However, many electronic devices also contain valuable materials, such as gold, silver, and copper, that can be recycled and reused. Proper e-waste disposal can help conserve natural resources, reduce pollution, and support a circular economy where materials are reused and waste is minimized.

YEAP is committed to raising awareness and providing young people with the tools they need to take action. Through digital platforms like Instagram and Facebook, YEAP participants are able to share important information about how to safely dispose of old electronics, the benefits of recycling, and the long-term environmental advantages of e-waste management.

Also read: 16 youth ambassadors championing sustainability in e-waste

e27’s commitment: Year 2 of YEAP

This year marks the second year of e27 organizing the YEAP program. Its continued commitment underscores the growing importance of youth engagement in sustainability efforts. e27, which is dedicated to empowering Southeast Asia’s tech ecosystem, has expanded YEAP’s reach and impact through its partnership with Meta. By bringing together youth leaders, environmental advocates, and technology experts, e27 is creating a collaborative platform that amplifies the message of sustainable e-waste management across Singapore and Southeast Asia.

The program’s success is a testament to the growing role of digital platforms in environmental advocacy. With the support of Meta, YEAP participants are equipped to create content that not only informs but also motivates action. The combination of social media tools, community engagement, and digital skills training is empowering young people to become advocates for sustainability and responsible e-waste disposal.

Looking ahead: Creating a sustainable future

Through its Facebook Community, workshops, and webinars, YEAP continues to create an inclusive space for youth. Through it, they learn, collaborate, and lead efforts in e-waste management. By reaching over 15,000 young people in Singapore and connecting with other like-minded individuals across Asia, YEAP is positioning itself as a driving force in the fight against e-waste.

Also read: Empowering innovation: e27 collaborates with Meta for the AI Accelerator Programme

Join the movement: Together, we can make a difference

As the program continues to grow, YEAP invites everyone to become part of the solution. Whether you’re a young person looking to make an impact or an organization passionate about sustainability, you can join the Facebook Community, attend workshops and webinars, and use social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to spread awareness and take action.

Together, we can make a lasting impact on the environment, build a more sustainable future, and ensure that our e-waste doesn’t harm the planet for generations to come. 

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This article is produced by e27

We can share your story at e27 too! Engage the Southeast Asian tech ecosystem by bringing your story to the world. Reach out to us here to get started.

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Our top 27 contributors of 2024

At e27, we believe that fostering community-driven growth is essential to building a platform that thrives on collaboration and shared knowledge. The industry insights contributed by our community members bring immense value, helping professionals across sectors stay informed, inspired, and connected.

As we approach the end of the year, we take a moment to celebrate the voices that have shaped our platform. Here’s a round-up of 27 noteworthy contributors whose insights and expertise stood out. Their contributions have made 2024 a more informed, dynamic, and engaging year.

We look forward to continuing this journey together in 2025.

Anndy Lian

Anndy Lian is a business strategist with experience advising companies and governments across Asia. A blockchain pioneer, serial entrepreneur, and investor, he currently serves as Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organisation, leading national digitisation efforts. His book, NFT: From Zero to Hero, has sold over 8,000 copies.

“My proudest moment this year? Seeing Bitcoin hit US$100,000—a milestone that highlights crypto’s growing adoption and potential. In 2025, I’m excited about AI and crypto leading innovation, with their convergence unlocking endless possibilities. I love the interaction with the e27 community members. Many have connected with me on LinkedIn and X, fostering meaningful conversations and collaborations.”

Anton Lucanus

Anton Lucanus is a published scientist and the Founder of Neliti and Reputio. A former breast cancer researcher, he advocates for open access to scientific knowledge and invests in innovations focused on longevity, ageing, and biohacking.

Bernadetta Septarini

Bernadetta Septarini, a Content and Social Media Marketing professional at ArmourZero, entered the cybersecurity field without prior experience but quickly discovered a passion for simplifying its complexities. She is dedicated to sharing insights that make cybersecurity accessible and engaging for all.

“Being nominated as a top contributor last year was a proud milestone that fuelled my passion for writing. This year, I challenged myself to publish more consistently, and I’m thrilled to have achieved my goal of releasing articles almost every month. As we move into 2025, I’m excited about the rise of AI and its potential to transform not just cybersecurity but how we approach our entire careers. I hope to inspire others to see AI not as a threat but as a tool we can use positively and effectively.

To the e27 community, thank you for fostering an environment of growth and collaboration. I look forward to seeing how this platform continues to provide insights, expand networks, and help startups gain the recognition they deserve.”

Camellia Chan

Camellia Chan, Co-Founder and CEO of Flexxon, leads the company’s strategy, R&D, and global expansion. Since 2007, she has grown Flexxon into a global enterprise with a presence in over 50 cities.

“As we look to 2025, I’m excited to see a growing shift in how cybersecurity is approached, especially with the integration of advanced hardware-level protections. This is the year where hybrid defense models—combining dynamic hardware safeguards with pre-existing software capabilities—will gain momentum. This layered approach ensures no single point of failure, paving the way for enhanced resilience against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.”

Christopher Quek

Christopher Quek is the Founder and Managing Partner of TRIVE, a Singapore-based firm specialising in venture capital, private equity, and business transformation for family businesses and offices across Southeast Asia. With over 13 years of experience, he has provided one-on-one advisory to more than 2,000 startups. He is also a CAIA and CFA charterholder.

“One of my proudest moments was achieving the CFA charter after three failures over six years. I liken that journey to entrepreneurship—keep trying until you succeed. In 2025, I anticipate a surge in Venture Capital and Private Equity deals across Southeast Asia as allocations shift toward alternative investments. To the e27 community: life will only get better in 2025. Stay hopeful for the big breakthroughs in VC and entrepreneurship.”

Also Read: Rebellions to Weavel: Unveiling South Korea’s most promising AI ventures

Dae Ro Won

Dae Ro Won is an experienced executive with over 20 years in Fund Management and Venture Building. Specialising in cross-border projects and startup expansion, he provides tailored solutions across Korea, Singapore, and Southeast Asia. He is the Director and CEO of Wilt Venture Builder.

“My proudest moment of 2024 is launching Zero100, a Venture Studio program bridging Korea and Singapore, where we train Korean entrepreneurs for three months before supporting their startup ventures in Singapore.”

Daniel Tan

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Daniel Tan observed that many SMEs were burdened with high finder’s fees and facing issues with loan brokers cherry-picking customers or profiteering. Seeking a more transparent and efficient solution for borrowers, he founded FindTheLoan.com, Singapore’s first loan marketplace, to revolutionise how SMEs access financing.

“In 2024, AI dominated the headlines, from healthcare to finance, personalised medicine to chatbots. But many other innovations such as those in fintech continue to change lives. Platforms like Kiva allow individuals to lend money to small businesses or individuals in need, providing an alternative to traditional bank loans and driving financial inclusion by giving rural populations access to capital.

In edutech, learning platforms have made education more accessible to people around the world. Farmtech, such as precision farming helped farmers in Africa and other parts of the world increase crop yields and improve their income. Telemedicine platforms made healthcare more accessible remotely saving lives. Excited to see what 2025 will bring and hope you are too!”

Darryl Dickens

Darryl Dickens, Founder of Out-Position, specialises in positioning and Category Design for tech startups, innovators, and growth-focused enterprises. His expertise helps businesses craft unique market positions that drive differentiation and sustainable growth.

“Healthcare is seeing radical change to its business and operating models as well as an acceleration in innovation and tech adoption. It’s being driven by these three factors and will continue to accelerate in 2025: post-pandemic reverberations and the necessity for change; aging demographics that are impacting and accelerating on healthcare systems; and AI maturity and adoption.

In particular, the home is increasingly seen as an overlooked component of infrastructure for ‘aging in place’ or ‘hospital at home’ models. New categories emerging such as Comprehensive Healthcare at Home, will enable seniors to age longer from their home, as well as progressively use their home for medical recovery from illness or surgery. This in turn frees up beds and eases pressure on the overall healthcare system, but also improves health outcomes. It’s a great time for innovation and redefining healthcare categories!”

Darryl Han

Darryl is currently the Co-Founder of LFG, a travel discovery engine, where he leverages on his extensive global experience to drive startup’s early stages. He is an operations and creative leader who’s spent the last seven years helping tech companies grow across Asia Pacific, from startups to major tech platforms. He’s done everything from leading 60-person teams to building products from scratch, particularly in Australia, Singapore, and Vietnam.

“Looking ahead to 2025, I’m genuinely excited about two major shifts happening right now. The way we search for and discover information is being transformed by AI assistants that actually understand what we’re trying to accomplish, with tools like Perplexity reshaping everything from information seeking to shopping. Meanwhile, the space industry is hitting remarkable milestones, with companies like AstroForge securing the first-ever deep-space mining license and Northwoods Space successfully testing satellite connectivity systems, showing how space tech is becoming part of our everyday reality.”

Davin Dedhia

Davin Dedhia is the Co-Founder and CMO of Auptimate, a platform empowering fund managers, family offices, and professional investors to swiftly launch their Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) and syndicates online. Auptimate ensures investors can concentrate on their primary focus of investing, handling the legal, compliance, and operational aspects of SPV creation and management.

Fanny Fajarianti

Fanny Fajarianti is a digital marketing specialist with over three years of experience in SEO, paid advertising, and content strategy. She is dedicated to helping brands achieve online growth through innovative and effective marketing solutions.

“In 2025, I’m excited about the continued evolution of AI and automation in digital marketing, especially in SEO and paid ads optimisation. These tools are empowering marketers to deliver hyper-personalised experiences at scale, and I’m eager to explore how they can make campaigns even more effective!”

Felicia Theodorus

Felicia Theodorus is a certified marketing professional, writer, and content creator with over a decade of experience. She authored Big Impact, Small Budget: Winning Marketing Strategies for Startups and runs Insight Arc Media, publishing platforms like The Javachip and Feliccine. Recognised as a top blogger and beauty influencer in Indonesia, she delivers fresh insights across business, lifestyle, and societal trends.

“Looking ahead, I’m thrilled about the advancements in technology, particularly in the fintech space across Southeast Asia. Despite the challenges and changes we saw in 2024, there’s a sense of resilience and innovation in the region. Fintech is transforming how businesses and individuals interact with financial services, fostering inclusion and growth. I’m also eager to see how AI innovation will continue to evolve, especially in enhancing productivity and enabling more creative, human-centric solutions. It’s an exciting time to be part of this dynamic ecosystem.

To the e27 community, thank you for being a space where ideas thrive, and connections are nurtured. The Contributor Programme has been invaluable in amplifying voices and fostering collaboration. Here’s to another year of building, sharing, and growing together—let’s make 2025 extraordinary!”

Georg Chmiel

Georg Chmiel is a seasoned business leader, company director, and senior advisor with 30 years of experience in scaling companies and navigating disruptive technologies. With expertise in capital markets and technology businesses, he has extensive global exposure across Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. He is the Co-Founder and Chair of Juwai-IQI Holdings, a leading proptech group in Southeast Asia, and the Co-Founder and Executive Chair of Chmiel Global Advisory, a boutique advisory firm.

“My proudest achievement this year has been witnessing a return to strong, profitable growth across all the businesses I am involved in. Looking ahead to 2025, I am excited about the continued advancements in AI, the stronger growth of social commerce, and, above all, the hope for an end to hostilities in current conflict zones.

To the e27 community, I want to say this: it’s an incredible platform for learning, sharing, and growing together.”

Also Read: Funding the green transition: Southeast Asia’s climate tech leaders of 2024

Ivy Nhi Chau

Ivy Nhi Chau is the CEO and Founder of Ivy+Partners, a communications firm focused on integrated campaigns for local and international brands. With nearly a decade of experience, she leads a team dedicated to creating impactful, culture-focused PR solutions. She is also a member of The Public Relations and Communications Association Southeast Asia (PRCA SEA) and a founding member of One Asia Communications.

“2024 was a transformative year for me, as I witnessed the powerful interaction between PR and technology. While PR amplified the voices of tech companies, technological advancements, especially AI, took PR to new heights. As we step into 2025, I’m excited to see how AI continues to shape the future of communication, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in our industry.

I’d like to express my sincere appreciation to the e27 Contributor Programme for fostering such a vibrant community for knowledge sharing and networking within the tech industry. The platform has been instrumental in connecting me with fellow thought leaders and professionals, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities it has provided. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead for the entire e27 community!”

Izwan Zakaria

Izwan Zakaria is a startup, venture, and tech lawyer at Izwan & Partners, a corporate law firm dedicated to supporting tech companies and startups in navigating legal complexities and raising capital both in Malaysia and internationally.

“2025 is likely shaping up to be a big year for Southeast Asia’s tech scene. We should anticipate greater cross-border partnerships as we see more AI and blockchain adoption, driven by clearer regulatory clarity on the horizon. As a startup lawyer, I’m excited to work with e27’s team more closely to empower more founders to build the future of tech in the region. If you’re a founder, 2025 is a great year for startups to shine!”

Jackie Tan

Jackie Tan is a 2x founder with 2x exits. He lectures in data science at Nanyang Technological University and entrepreneurship at Singapore University of Social Sciences. As Co-founder and CEO of BorderDollar, Jackie focuses on closing the trade finance gap for SMEs and leveraging AI for supply chain and procurement solutions. His work integrates data science, fintech, and algorithm design to drive efficiency in trade finance.

“My proudest moments this year include winning a couple of hackathons I participated in for fun—it’s a hobby of mine. I’m excited about the possible recovery in funding volume as more VCs start investing again.

How much you get out of a community is proportional to how much you put in—the e27 community is amazing and you will be in the company of the most motivated, hardworking, and clever individuals.”

Jenny Zheng

Jenny Zheng is a seasoned professional with over six years of experience in the blockchain industry. In 2017, she founded Blockcast.cc, a respected Singapore-based blockchain media outlet, establishing her as a key figure in the space. In 2022, Jenny joined Bybit, one of the leading cryptocurrency exchanges, where she serves as the Business Development Lead for their NFT marketplace/Web3 business, further advancing her expertise and contributions to the industry.

Karen Kim

Karen Kim is the CEO of Human Managed, an ASEAN cloud-native data platform empowering businesses to make smarter decisions for cyber, digital, and risk outcomes. She focuses on aligning purpose, strategy, and operations, applying design-thinking and a service-first approach to branding, service design, and business development.

“One of my proudest achievements was leading the development of an industry- collaborative whitepaper on the emerging technology of federated learning and privacy preservation. The whitepaper titled “Better Intelligence is Collective: Unlocking the Potential of AI with Federated Learning ” included contributions from experts from Microsoft, Snowflake and Paynet. Seeing the research insights resonate with stakeholders in our ecosystem has been extremely rewarding.

In 2025, I believe that Service Design will become critical in the age of AI products. While there is a plethora of AI-powered features, products and agents flooding the market, service interactions need to be better designed. Customers want AI powered interfaces, that are not only efficient and effective, but also thoughtful and human-like at times, collaborative and nuanced at others.

The Contributor Programme at e27 has amplified my voice as a tech leader, allowing me to share insights on emerging technologies and industry trends in Data and AI with a global audience. It has helped in creating awareness about the solutions offered by our company, Human Managed, for operationalising AI  in enterprises across the ASEAN region. The editors at e27 have always been open to ideas that have been proposed and I look forward to continuing this collaboration.”

Leighton Cosseboom

Leighton Cosseboom serves as Principal and Head of Marketing at AC Ventures. He co-founded C2 Media, the parent company of Content Collision, Indonesia’s top-of-mind PR firm for tech companies and VC firms, and ContentGrow, a managed freelance talent network and workflow app for global content teams.

Lisa Gibbons

“This year it was an honour to be chosen as one of the leading female voices in Web3. As a woman in a position of leadership I believe it is crucial for us all to pave the way for future female leaders to use their skills, showcase new opportunities and have an opinion when it comes to how advanced technologies are being used in society. 2025 will be the year when we see AI and immersive tech infiltrate some of our most important industries. This will bring unprecedented change when it comes to the way we value productivity and also bring more freedom to create, express and showcase our cultures in ways that would have been previously unimaginable.

Lydea Quek

Lydea Quek has nearly a decade of experience in cybersecurity, having honed her expertise with leading companies like Fortinet, Thales Security, and currently at Hackuity. Her career is driven by a passion for solving complex challenges and tailoring security solutions to meet the unique needs of clients. Outside of her professional life, she is deeply committed to promoting well-being and mental health.

“This year, I’m proud of the progress we’ve made in building meaningful relationships with customers and partners, driving impactful conversations around cybersecurity in APJ. In 2025, I hope to see businesses accelerate their growth by proactively tackling security challenges and turning them into opportunities for innovation. To the e27 community, thank you for fostering collaboration and driving innovation in this ever-evolving space!”

Maggie Po

Malcolm Tan

Malcolm Tan is a serial entrepreneur and Founder of Gravitas International and Qrypt Technologies. He serves as Chief Strategist at Technicorum Holdings and Strategic Advisor for Kingswap DEX. He specialises in Cryptocurrency and Blockchain law, advising on over 80 projects, focusing on DeFi, fintech, and Regtech. He is the author of How to ICO/ITO in Singapore and DeFi — The Latest Financial Phenomenon.

Moch Akbar Azzihad M

Moch Akbar Azzihad M is an entrepreneur focused on leveraging technology to create impactful solutions. As Founder & CEO of Converco, he develops blockchain-based solutions for secure, fast, and low-cost transactions, revolutionising the traditional financial industry.

“One of my proudest moments this year was integrating AI into Web3 projects, which opened new doors for innovation and elevated user experiences. Looking ahead to 2025, I’m excited about the continued synergy between AI and blockchain to create smarter, decentralised systems. To the e27 community, thank you for fostering collaboration and amplifying voices that shape the future of technology!”

Paolo Danese

Paolo Denese has over a decade of experience pioneering digital initiatives and launching innovative platforms. As an AI Strategy Advisor, he bridges AI applications with business goals, driving impactful strategies in publishing, media, and the creator economy. His work includes leading the GlobalRMB media brand and launching the Storya AI publishing app, attracting thousands of users and authors globally. He focuses on creating scalable AI solutions and fostering cross-cultural collaboration.

Sam Lee

Since founding Paloe (formerly Excide) in 2015, Sam Lee has become a trusted advisor in preparing startups for Series A and Series B rounds. With extensive experience acting as interim CFO for various tech companies during their fundraising phases, he has helped more than 70 companies craft financial models and effectively communicate their stories through data. His expertise spans working with companies like PolicyPal, Haulio, X0PA, Detrack, Moovaz, Geniebook, USEN, Rainmaker Labs, and Gobbler.

“In Southeast Asia, the funding winter appears to be thawing, with an uptick in Series A announcements likely in the first half of 2025. However, investors are expected to adopt more stringent selection criteria, prioritising startups with clear traction, strong unit economics, and sustainable growth plans.”

Sarah Dongmi Choi

Sarah Dongmi Choi is an experienced startup ecosystem builder with eight years of expertise in fostering growth and innovation. She specialises in Korean startup acceleration, helping early-stage ventures scale globally and maximise investment opportunities. Currently serving as Senior Manager at Chungbuk CCEI, a leading public accelerator funded by the Ministry of SMEs, Sarah plays a key role in supporting startups in their journey to success.

“Being named one of e27’s Top 10 Female Contributors last year opened many doors. This year, as a LinkedIn influencer, I’ve been interviewed by major Korean media and honoured at the Global Women of Influence Awards 2024 in Singapore. I was also recently recognised as one of the Top 10 LinkedIn Voices by an Asian media outlet, gaining widespread recognition.

I’m passionate about helping startups build resilience and entrepreneurs develop strong leadership amidst uncertainty. In the coming year, I plan to share actionable insights and strategies for thriving in challenging times. Additionally, I’ll focus on personal branding to equip entrepreneurs and investors with practical tools for success.

Working in a government-affiliated organisation and a startup accelerator in South Korea, I’ve gained valuable insights and connections through e27’s content and network. I look forward to the community’s continued growth, supporting global expansion for companies and helping investors discover outstanding businesses.”

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

Join us on Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn to stay connected.

The post Celebrating community-driven growth: Top 27 contributors of 2024 appeared first on e27.

The Southeast Asian (SEA) tech sector faced a challenging year in 2024, with startup funding plummeting to US$2.84 billion—a 59.14 per cent decrease from US$6.95 billion in 2023, according to the Tracxn Geo Annual Report: SEA Tech 2024.

This sharp decline marks an 80 per cent drop compared to the funding levels seen in 2022, underscoring the sector’s struggles amid a broader global downturn in tech investments.

The decline in SEA was observed across all funding stages. Seed funding fell by 52.4 per cent, while early-stage funding contracted by 28.6 per cent.

Late-stage startups were hit hardest, experiencing a staggering 76.9 per cent drop in funding.

The fourth quarter of 2024 proved particularly weak, with funding totalling just US$494.8 million—the lowest quarterly figure for the region in five years. This represented a 12.65 per cent decline from the third quarter and a 62.9 per cent year-over-year reduction.

Also Read: Startup funding in Southeast Asia sees a 9% uptick in August: Tracxn

Adding to the bleak picture, the report highlighted declines across key indicators of startup activity. The number of funding rounds dropped by 22 per cent, while first-time funded companies decreased by 28 per cent.

Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) declined by 53.85 per cent compared to 2023. Mergers and acquisitions were also subdued, with a 17.11 per cent year-on-year decrease in 2024.

The report offered limited insights into the reasons behind these declines, although it noted that SEA tech accounted for just one per cent of global tech funding in 2024. Broader trends in the global funding landscape likely contributed to the downturn as similar declines were observed in other major markets, including the US, Europe, India, and China, reflecting a widespread pullback by investors.

While Southeast Asia’s tech ecosystem remains a vibrant hub for innovation, the funding slowdown in 2024 highlights the challenges startups face in an increasingly cautious investment climate. The region’s long-term growth potential remains intact, but navigating this downturn will require resilience and strategic adaptation from startups and investors alike.

Singapore leads the pack

Singapore emerged as a standout performer in SEA’s tech landscape in 2024, securing 67.86 per cent of the region’s total tech funding, according to the report. Despite an overall regional decline, Singapore attracted US$1.9 billion in funding.

The city outpaced its regional peers, with Jakarta securing US$276 million and Bangkok receiving US$261 million in funding, placing them second and third, respectively. Singapore’s dominance in the funding landscape is attributed to its stable economic environment, supportive government policies, and a well-developed talent pool.

Also Read: SEA startups raised US$371M across 42 rounds in March: Tracxn report

Key sectors driving investment across the region were fintech, high tech, and enterprise applications, which collectively accounted for a significant portion of the US$2.84 billion raised by SEA tech firms in 2024.

Of these different verticals:

– Fintech led the pack, attracting US$1.4 billion, though this represented a 29 per cent decrease compared to 2023
– High tech followed with US$966 million, reflecting a 25 per cent decline from the previous year
– Enterprise applications secured $764 million, marking a 32 per cent drop from 2023

Despite these declines, investor interest in these sectors remains strong, highlighting their potential for long-term growth in the region.

The report does not offer projections for 2025, but it notes trends that may shape the coming year. While the global funding downturn could continue to impact SEA, Singapore’s resilience suggests a potential bright spot for regional investment, particularly if the city-state sustains its momentum.

Investor confidence in specific sectors, such as fintech, high tech, and enterprise applications, also signals potential areas for growth. While challenges persist, these industries continue to attract significant attention, positioning them as key drivers for the region’s recovery.

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As startup founders, we’ve all felt the pressure lately. Economic uncertainty, shrinking VC funding, and investor demands for faster returns have hit quite hard. It’s not easy to scale, especially in Southeast Asia, where competition is fierce, and the funding environment has changed drastically. 

But here’s the thing: we don’t have to just survive this, we can thrive — if we approach growth differently. As opposed to years ago when scaling was everything, now investors start asking for quicker returns while we’re still trying to figure out how to make our product fit the market perfectly. 

But the good news is, there’s a way forward that doesn’t require burning through cash at breakneck speed.

Here are the top five areas from what I’ve learned and proven to work in every region where I’m operating — Asia, Europe, and Latin America.

Capital efficiency over growth at any cost

It’s tempting to chase after fast growth, especially when that was the golden rule just a couple of years ago. But in this economy, we’re being asked to do more with less. Investors aren’t just looking for growth anymore; they want to see how efficiently we can use the capital we have.

For us, this means rethinking where we allocate our resources. And it starts by asking the right questions: What’s giving us the best return? Are we automating where we can? Automation has been a lifesaver for many startups that survive the test of time, freeing up time and allowing them to scale without adding unnecessary overhead. 

It’s a tough pill to swallow sometimes, but being lean and efficient isn’t about limiting growth — it’s about growing sustainably. And in the long run, it makes all the difference.

Invest in the customers like they’re our lifeline (because they are)

Acquiring new customers takes time and money, two things that are in short supply when the market is tight. However, focusing on deepening relationships with existing customers and prioritising their experience can have a huge impact. 

One of Deloitte’s reports even stated that well-executed hyper-personalisation can deliver 8x the return on investment on marketing spend, and lift sales by 10 per cent or more. And this is where personalisation and understanding the real needs of our customers come into play.

In the eyes of the customers, startups need to become more than just a service or product provider. In an uncertain economy, they rely more heavily on us to ensure their business operations flow smoothly with a more limited capacity. 

Also Read: Exploring the creator economy in gaming

In the end, we have to step up our game, making sure our customers know we’re listening, care about their feedback, and eventually adapting to meet their needs. In times like these, those strong customer relationships can keep us afloat and even help drive word-of-mouth growth.

Make digital our best friend

Southeast Asia is unique in how quickly it’s embracing digital channels—whether it’s e-commerce, mobile apps, or social media. Investing in the digital strategy early on was one of the best decisions we made to survive any volatility in every region. 

But being online isn’t just about looking good on Instagram or Facebook anymore. It’s about finding what’s hidden and what customers secretly need from their behavioural patterns. Localising digital presence for each Southeast Asian market is also more crucial than ever. Some countries aren’t just dealing with economic slowdowns but also political instability. 

It’s a tricky space — one wrong move and we could be in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. But get it right, and the impact can be game-changing like nothing we’ve seen before. So, every step we take to engage with our audience in a way that resonates locally, eventually brings us closer to sustainable growth. 

Be ready to pivot (anytime)

If there’s one thing we’ve all learned from these last few years, we must be nimble. The market shifts quickly, and what worked yesterday might not work tomorrow. As a founder, I’ve had to pivot multiple times — whether it was changing our marketing approach, tweaking our product, or shifting how we communicate with customers.

Now, this is where shifting to the agile mindset has been crucial. And no, this isn’t about throwing everything out and starting over. It’s about making small, iterative changes that keep us aligned with our customers’ evolving needs. While it’s sometimes nerve-wracking to take those risks, these pivots often lead to the biggest breakthroughs.

Trust is the main currency, especially with investors and advisors

One thing I’ve also learned is that building trust in the investors isn’t just about securing the next round of funding. Our investors want to see us succeed, but they also want transparency. Being open about our challenges, capital efficiency, and growth plans has helped us maintain strong relationships with them, even in tougher times.

Also Read: Managing talent in an economic downturn

We’ve also leaned heavily on our advisors—people who’ve been there and done that, and who understand the local and global startup scene. Whether it’s scaling up, entering new markets, or managing resources, getting insights from those who’ve been there before helps us avoid repeating the mistakes made in the past.

Coming out stronger

Despite the challenges, Southeast Asia remains a region with enormous potential, and certain sectors are still attracting VC interest. Startups in sectors like AI, automation, and digital health are well-positioned to secure funding, even as other sectors face a funding crunch.

If your startup operates in these high-growth sectors, now is the time to double down on your R&D and innovation efforts. Highlighting the technological edge and long-term growth potential can help you stand out to VCs who are looking for the next big thing in these spaces.

We’re all in this together, and I know how tough it can be to navigate these uncertain times. But by focusing on capital efficiency, strengthening customer relationships, staying agile, and building strong investor ties based on trust, we can set our startups on the path to healthy, sustainable growth for long-term success.

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