Generative AI (GenAI) is reshaping industries worldwide, and ASEAN is emerging as a hotbed of innovation in this space. However, while the region’s startups are making strides in developing cutting-edge solutions, the journey from idea to market remains a formidable challenge. The ASEAN GenAI Startup Report 2024 sheds light on the unique hurdles these startups face and the strategies that can help them succeed.

Understanding the challenges

For ASEAN’s GenAI startups, particularly those focusing on B2B solutions (92 per cent of the ecosystem), the path to market is often riddled with obstacles.

Slow enterprise onboarding

Startups targeting enterprises often encounter lengthy and complex sales cycles. The process of securing contracts, which may involve tenders, validation, and Request-for-Proposal (RFP) submissions, can take months. Many enterprises require startups to demonstrate a proven operational history—an expectation difficult for younger startups to meet, especially given the nascent nature of GenAI technologies.

Cash flow constraints

Limited funding exacerbates the challenge of protracted sales cycles. According to the report, nearly half (49 per cent) of GenAI startups are bootstrapped or rely on angel funding, with only 16 per cent reporting profitability. Startups often depend on paid pilots to validate their solutions, but even when successful, payment delays of 60 to 90 days can strain their operations.

Cultural and workforce sensitivities

In ASEAN, workforce-related concerns often slow the adoption of GenAI solutions. Organisations may hesitate to embrace technologies perceived as threatening jobs. Furthermore, poorly executed proof-of-concept (POC) projects—due to misaligned expectations or inadequate data—can deter enterprises from moving forward.

Despite these challenges, ASEAN startups demonstrate remarkable adaptability. The report highlights that 75 per cent of surveyed startups have pivoted their strategies at least once to stay aligned with market demands.

Also Read: From innovation to impact: Key sectors driving GenAI adoption in ASEAN

Strategies for overcoming barriers

To navigate the GTM landscape, ASEAN GenAI startups can adopt innovative strategies that leverage their unique strengths while addressing market complexities.

Focus on niche applications

Specialisation is a key differentiator for startups in a competitive environment. By developing tailored solutions for specific industries or markets, startups can create defensible positions. For instance, Vietnam’s Mesolitica builds fine-tuned language models that cater to the linguistic and cultural needs of Southeast Asia, setting it apart from global competitors.

Build strategic partnerships

Collaborations with established players, such as cloud providers and enterprises, can accelerate a startup’s path to market. Partnerships are the most effective customer acquisition channel for ASEAN GenAI startups, with 74 per cent citing them as a critical strategy.

Cloud providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure play a vital role in supporting startups through credits, technical resources, and GTM programs. For example, ArcanicAI in Vietnam leverages AWS’s GenAI Accelerator Program to secure POCs and gain exposure to enterprise clients. These partnerships help startups overcome resource limitations and establish credibility.

Adopt a regional GTM approach

ASEAN’s diversity presents a challenge for startups but also an opportunity to expand into broader markets. By building region-specific partnerships and customising solutions for different cultural contexts, startups can scale effectively. For instance, Indonesia’s Lexilaw.ai is already running POCs across ASEAN and beyond, demonstrating how cross-border collaboration can unlock new opportunities.

Also Read: Report: New fintech talents emerge as GenAI becomes increasingly popular in Singapore

Support from the ecosystem

Governments, investors, and accelerators have a crucial role in helping ASEAN GenAI startups overcome GTM challenges.

Government-led initiatives

Policymakers across the region are launching programs to foster innovation. Singapore’s Productivity Solutions Grant and Vietnam’s National Innovation Center are examples of initiatives that provide financial support, access to resources, and opportunities for startups to showcase their capabilities.

Accelerators and cloud providers

Accelerator programs, such as AWS’s GenAI Spotlight and Google’s AI Accelerator, offer startups not only technical expertise but also market exposure and funding opportunities. These initiatives enhance startups’ ability to develop products and secure enterprise clients.

Corporate mergers and acquisitions (M&As)

As GenAI adoption grows, enterprises are increasingly interested in acquiring startups to integrate AI capabilities into their operations. Startups that align their solutions with enterprise needs are better positioned for partnerships or acquisitions.

The way forward

The GTM journey for ASEAN GenAI startups is challenging, but it is also filled with opportunities. By focusing on niche applications, forging strategic partnerships, and expanding regionally, startups can overcome barriers and achieve sustainable growth.

The role of the ecosystem—governments, accelerators, and cloud providers—is equally critical in enabling startups to thrive. With targeted support and collaborative efforts, ASEAN’s GenAI startups can establish themselves as global leaders in AI innovation.

In the fast-evolving world of GenAI, success will come to those who adapt, innovate, and leverage the collective strength of the ecosystem. The journey is complex, but for ASEAN’s startups, the rewards are worth the effort.

—

This article is the third in a series from the ASEAN GenAI Startup Report 2024. GenAI Fund invests in early-stage GenAI startups across Southeast Asia, focusing on growth strategies and exit opportunities. Stay updated with new articles in this series by subscribing and following us on our channels. For more articles, visit: https://e27.co/category/reports/.

The post Navigating the go-to-market challenge: Helping ASEAN GenAI startups succeed appeared first on e27.

The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris had long been acknowledged as a potential watershed moment for Airbnb (NASDAQ:ABNB). But did the homestay giant miss its opportunity to cement its position as a travel and tourism market leader? 

Airbnb’s strategy was clear, and advertising campaigns aimed to underline the firm’s USP as a provider of unique experiences that can’t be replicated elsewhere in the hospitality industry, with the tagline: ‘Why stay in a hotel on the touristy side of Paris, when you could stay in an Airbnb on the Paris-y side of Paris?’

However, one month before the Olympic Games, The Connexion reported that falling demand for Airbnb properties saw the average rate per unit drop by 32 per cent between April and June 2024. 

These falling prices come off the back of a surge in listings throughout the city, with more than 15,000 extra properties made available on short-term rental websites in the Paris area since March. 

The overall volume of visitors to Paris during the Olympic Games reached 11.2 million, but not to be outdone by Airbnb, many hotels in the city sought to drop their prices to avoid losing business. 

Airbnb’s stock slipped 16.37 per cent in Q3 2024 at a time when investors would’ve expected more optimism sparked by the games. Now, with insider sell-offs and issues with falling demand, could the Airbnb boom be facing its biggest challenge yet? 

Weaker profit as demand falls

One major contributing factor to Airbnb’s Q3 slide was the company’s weakening profit margins of US$555 million during the previous quarter compared to the $650 million reported over the same period in the year prior. 

The weakening trend saw shares in ABNB slip 12 per cent after the bell, with the company blaming a weakening market amid economic uncertainty and New York’s crackdown on homestays. 

With more Airbnb hosts implementing strict rules and higher hidden fees, the stock may have lost some of its advantages over traditional hotels, which could see more unwanted competition emerge. 

Insider sell-offs

Although insider selling isn’t necessarily a cause for concern, it’s worth noting that Airbnb insiders were net sellers over the last year. 

Airbnb co-founder Brian Chesky made the biggest insider sale within the last 12 months in a single transaction worth US$17 million. 

In total, Chesky sold 307,690 shares over the past year with the average share price weighing in at US$143. 

Also Read: ‘AIR’ review: 3 lessons for dealmaking and entrepreneurship

In October, Aristotle Balogh, the chief technology officer of Airbnb, sold 600 shares worth US$81,198 while retaining ownership of 192,244 shares in the company. 

Although insider sell-offs aren’t necessarily a sign of a struggling company, they can sometimes point to weakening confidence among stakeholders in a firm’s short-term performance. 

Add to this the recent news that Mn Services Vermogensbeheer BV opted to lessen its holdings in Airbnb by 4.5 per cent during the third quarter and a trend of sell-offs appears to be forming both inside and outside the company. Should investors be concerned?

Airbnb remains a revenue machine

Despite its short-term concerns, Airbnb remains a highly profitable innovator in the travel and tourism industry. 

“The Airbnb business model has proven extremely profitable, with the firm generating US$9.9 billion in sales in 2023, more than double its 2019 revenue before the pandemic,” highlights Maxim Manturov, head of investment research at Freedom24. 

“The company sees significant growth potential, especially in the extended stay market, where stays of 28 days or more accounted for 17 per cent of booked nights in the first quarter, likely driven by flexible work schedules in the wake of the pandemic.”

Investors can also find hope in Airbnb’s high potential ‘Experiences’ feature, which offers an entirely unique holiday experience for users that traditional hospitality firms are currently unable to emulate at scale. However, expectations have so far been tempered by the company’s inability to work out how to sell the feature on its platform. 

Also Read: HD, the Airbnb for surgeries in SEA, secures US$6M funding  

With Airbnb’s profit-to-earnings ratio expected to fall as low as 14 from current levels by the end of 2027, the prospect of adding an underpriced innovative stock is likely to attract a number of institutional and retail investors alike. 

While sell-offs have been a concern, Citi has maintained a more positive stance on Airbnb, placing a Buy rating on the stock and a price target of US$135.00. 

Life after the Olympics

Although Airbnb may have anticipated a higher pace of bookings during the Paris Olympics, there’s plenty of optimism for the homestay stock that suggests its boom period is far from over. 

Despite weakening demand and price competition from hotels, Airbnb’s revenues and innovative experience-focused pipeline suggest that the future remains bright for the stock. If ABNB remains under $150 over the short term, we may see more investors tempted to add the travel and tourism giant to their portfolios.

—

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.

Image credit: Canva Pro

The post Failing the Olympic hurdle: Is it the beginning of the end for the Airbnb boom? appeared first on e27.

In the battle between Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud, a quiet contender is silently encroaching on the battlefield. The homelab, a computing space previously reserved for the closet or garage, is now beginning to be a larger part of people’s homes and small offices. 

In my early years as a budding software engineer in the 1990s, I would often take home expired or junked office computers, quietly assembling Frankenstein’s file server. Stacks of cords, cables, and components confused my friends who would often ask why I was hoarding so much computer equipment.

The simple answer was that I loved to build private home versions of the servers I helped maintain at work. But now, an even bigger draw is pulling even non-technical people into running their own private server. 

One of the biggest current drivers for homelabs is the development of open source easily accessible machine learning algorithms. Specifically, large language models (LLMs). What was once reserved for Universities and research labs can now be run on simple hardware quickly and easily using open software. Even I have let go of my Frankenstein File Server in favour of smaller, lower-wattage single board computers that take up less space and power in my own homelab. 

How can I start my own AI homelab?

Through my journey setting up my own personal LLM, let me share the top five things you need to know in order to get started with running your own private homelab LLM.

Docker

Once a mysterious tool used by backend engineers for development and testing, Docker containers are now the backbone for beginners looking to quickly launch a machine learning application quickly and easily. A Docker container is simply a shrink wrapped package of all the software you need to run an application.

If a chef, menu, vegetables, and noodles are everything you need to make a stir fry, the Docker container version would be all these things in a box, with a simple command to start the fire, cut the vegetables, and cook the meal. 

For example, you can run your own private LLM using Docker by typing this Docker command:

docker run -d -v ollama:/root/.ollama -p 11434:11434 –name ollama ollama/ollama

Ollama

As we saw with the previous recommendation, Docker allows us to install Ollama with a single command prompt. But what does Ollama do? And why have over 5 million people downloaded it? Large Language Models come in many sizes, and using different models can be confusing to set up and configure.

Also Read: Securing tomorrow’s metaverse today: Why safety in the new frontier must leverage on hardware

Ollama provides a common interface for communicating to these LLMs using a simple application programming interface (API). This means software can be developed that “plugs into” Ollama to provide functionality, decoupled from the LLM itself. For example you can use the Ollama API in your own Jupyter Notebook to send natural language prompts to your own LLM. 

Jupyter Notebook

Almost half of all Data Scientists use Jupyter Notebooks, for good reason. Notebooks provide an easy way to both see and comment on code, and plenty of examples exist on how to use machine learning algorithms in python code, as shareable Notebooks. With a Notebook, you can easily plug into OpenAI’s ChatGPT API, for a fee.

However, if you run your own API, as shown in the above example with Ollama, you can send LLM prompts to your own homelab for privately and for free. A Notebook can be a very hands-on “learning” approach to running your own private homelab LLM. However, a more hands-off approach is also available. 

Open WebUI

If you have no interest in learning data science but just want to run your own large language model on your own private network, with minimal tinkering, Open WebUI provides an entirely self-hosted AI interface that works seamlessly with Ollama, and plenty of other LLM API services (including OpenAI’s ChatGPT).

Similarly to Ollama, the easiest way to run Open WebUI is through Docker. Once it is running, you can see the local address on your home network, and it looks and functions very similarly to OpenAI’s ChatGPT service. You even have the choice of uploading your own documents and running prompts against the text inside them.

A healthy community of developers is constantly updating functionality and features in this software in the open source community. This means you are free to download, use, and contribute as much as you like, for free. 

Single board computer

Any new modern computer can be used to run a Large Language Model, though these models run in different sizes and the computer you have may only be able to run a smaller sized one.

Also Read: Why building user communities is far better than paid advertising

The top three things that will influence how well a system fits into your homelab are the following:

• How much power does the computer consume? If you run a powerful computer running a 800+ watt power supply, be prepared for equally large sized power bills. There’s a reason many AI companies are looking into using Nuclear Power – these computers are typically very hungry for electricity and this can translate to high operating costs. Keep this in mind when you are weighing pros and cons for a big system.
• How much RAM does the computer have? Even the lowest end LLMs require at least 8GB of RAM. Some can operate with 4GB but performance will be very poor. Ideally, a system should have a lot of RAM, with 8GB minimal and 16GB substantially better. Even more will allow access to larger models. 
• Some kind of acceleration helps. This could be a GPU, NPU, or TPU. Though, to keep things simple, the best option is to find the fastest CPU within your Power (see 1.) and financial budget. In my experience, configuring machine learning algorithms to fully take advantage of acceleration is a very technical topic outside the scope of what is defined here. But if you like to spend time “tuning” your hardware to run as fast as possible, this could be a great project you can sink many hours into.

Conclusion 

Though, no matter which direction you eventually take, many options are available to customise your homelab with an increasing number of consumer centric devices. The Raspberry Pi is one of the most popular computers for homelab enthusiasts, with a low cost, low wattage, and 8GB options. The Jetson Orin is a GPU enabled single board computer, also with 8GB options though more expensive. The RapidAnalysis Darius is a low cost, low wattage Intel-based single board computer which also has an 8GB option. 

The cheapest and most accessible option is the computer you have with you at home right now. Though, most people will not want to run memory-hungry software continuously on a machine they are doing serious work on. Much like getting on a crowded runway, applications fighting for takeoff on a PC that sits right next to you, whirring its fans like a jetliner, can become annoying quickly. But there is another option. 

With so many computers heading for the junkyard daily, a little time in the “lab” can resurrect old machines into new workstations. Often, computers that struggle with Microsoft Windows are perfectly capable at running a single application in a cluster of homelab Docker containers.

For example, you can run Ollama on one e-waste machine, OpenWebUI on another separate e-waste machine, and Jupyter Notebook on a third e-waste machine, for a fully integrated homelab server cluster, and access them via a web interface locally. If you have the space, time, and patience (much like I did as a young engineer) you could slowly assemble a capable homelab using e-waste and commercially expired parts. 

—

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.

Image credit: Canva Pro

The post The rise of homelabs: Running your own AI server at home appeared first on e27.

Is the Philippines the Most Underrated Market in Southeast Asia? Storehub’s Bold Bet on Its Future

At Echelon Philippines 2024, Wai Hong Fong, Chieftain and Co-Founder of StoreHub, joined Judge Calimbahin III of Endeavor Philippines for a fireside chat titled ‘Is the Philippines the Most Underrated Market in Southeast Asia? StoreHub’s Bold Bet on Its Future’. The discussion explored StoreHub’s decision to prioritise the Philippines as a key market in its Southeast Asian strategy.

Fong shared that, compared to Indonesia, the Philippines offers significant untapped potential for growth. With over 17,000 stores served across Southeast Asia, StoreHub identified the Philippines as having the lowest cost per lead and the highest willingness to pay, positioning it as a highly promising market. Despite early challenges such as bureaucratic hurdles and the necessity for a local presence, the Philippines has now become StoreHub’s fastest-growing market.

Also Read: Echelon Philippines 2024: Sabrina Tan on Lhoopa’s mission to make housing accessible

He emphasised the importance of understanding the culture and spending time in the country to build a strong foundation for business success. Fong also highlighted the evolving infrastructure in the Philippines, which supports greater opportunities for growth.

The fireside chat underscored the need for entrepreneurs to adopt a countercultural mindset and a strong hunger for success to thrive in this market. StoreHub’s bold bet on the Philippines illustrates the untapped potential in what Fong described as one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated markets, with strong prospects for growth and innovation.

Watch the session video above to learn more about these insights and the strategies shaping the future of entrepreneurship.

—

The post Echelon Philippines 2024: Wai Hong Fong on StoreHub’s bold bet on the Philippines appeared first on e27.

Singapore is one of the leading startup hubs in Asia and the world. The ease of setting up a business with friendly tax rates for medium-sized companies at 21 per cent has made Singapore one of the best business environments globally.

However, despite strong government support through initiatives and grants, and a robust business landscape that many international companies choose as their headquarters in Asia, 30 per cent of Singaporean startups fail within two to five years and only 25 per cent of new companies survive the 15-year mark.

With the advantages Singaporean startups enjoy, why are we not seeing a higher degree of success? I firmly believe that startup governance is the key foundation that all startups should have, and it determines the success and longevity of the business and opens up the possibilities to play on a bigger scale. 

Global and economic factors and the perceptions of startups

From 2015 to 2021, tech startups were all the rage for investors wanting to come in to make a killing. Sentiments were bullish, together with a climate of low interest rates, and a pandemic tech boom alongside the $2 trillion stimulus in that period, funding was abundant. 

Between February 2022 and the end of 2023, interest rates were hiked 11 times, resulting in baseline interest rates going up tenfold making capital more expensive to borrow.   

The startup space matured, and valuations became more realistic with tightened purse strings led to a sharp decline in funding. Investors got savvier and were not batting for moonshots, they were looking for profitability, rather than the race for scalability.

The quick rise and sharp decline in startup investment is a big factor.

Bad actors and mismanagement

Cautionary tales with companies such as WeWork which was valued at US$47 billion at its peak in 2019 before declaring bankruptcy in 2023. Amidst mismanaged funds and a lavish lifestyle from Co-founder and CEO Adam Neumann, who walked away with a sizeable payout while investors were left high and dry.

A similar story with Joel Sng who was Co-Founder and CEO of Honestbee who treated company funds as his own, siphoning money through multiple shell companies leading to his declaration of bankruptcy while staff and vendors were left high and dry.

Also Read: Reviving a failing startup: Financial strategies for long-term success

Upon reflection, the transgressions were not one-off events, and without oversight and accountability, they spiralled out of control.

Accountability and accounting

Lean, agile, and adaptive. These are qualities that startups are attributed with as the advantages they have over larger corporations which are seen to move and make decisions “slower”. 

Investments in startups are different from SMEs or MNCs and sometimes lack structure or regulations in favour of flexibility and speed for growth.

In our experience with startup governance, financial and statutory compliances are some of the most commonly overlooked items, as many startups try to do their accounting reports to save costs. This oftentimes results in mistakes that can cause their valuations to drop when they seek loans or investments down the line. 

Do not leave this to chance — engage professional accounting firms and service providers.

Legal agreements between founders have to be inked and agreed upon. Clearly stating the responsibilities and consequences in the event of disputes between founders and investors makes dealings fair and transparent. This can also prevent lawsuits from customers and partners.

Though some founders find this uncomfortable and a chore, engaging professional lawyers to get these agreements in place grants peace of mind and clarity.

Startup governance ensures that the management’s values, ethics, and business practices align with, and lead to their financial goals.

Startup governance makes the business attractive for prospective investors

Startups that are serious and have their house in order make themselves attractive for investments to come in across all stages. 

For new startups, angel investors looking at pre-seed or seed funding can go in confidently, while startups that are further in their journey can readily welcome institutional investors or venture capitalist firms. 

The further a startup is in its journey, the more due diligence will be required on both the business and potential investors or partners. As startups scale their stages of funding, so do the controls needed to protect the parties involved. Due diligence must also be a two-way street, with startups doing their due diligence before welcoming anyone to the fold, as some scammers pose as potential partners or investors. 

Also Read: The power of financial models for startups: A guide for founders and VCs

No matter the stage of the startup, having financial and legal frameworks in place makes the steps towards and after funding clearer.

Startup governance keeps the best interests of the business as the North Star   

When startups are in their early stages, the core team and founders can suffice to sustain and grow. This, however, might change as the business scales up. 

From our experience seeing many startups through their journey, some founders are great until they are not. Having the vision to start a business, and running it when it reaches a certain scale are not mutually inclusive skill sets. Successful founders know their strengths and know what they should outsource.

A good CEO should be equipped with business and administrative skillsets, and have a good grasp of various subjects outside of the business that are needed to run the business. Subjects such as accounting, law and regulations give context to the decisions needed to steer the business to success.

In some cases, despite history and sentimentality, roles have to be abdicated, and responsibilities shift. With good startup governance, these transitions can be handled with minimal interruption to the business, providing transparency for these shifts, while making adjustments and maintaining fair compensation.

Startup governance bridges the gap between startups with private and public entities

Public listed companies, MNCs and non-profit organisations have corporate governance in place as a staple modus operandi to keep their operations running smoothly.

Startups who aim to play on the big stage need to run a tight ship with startup governance as a core pillar of their business. With good governance, the founders, investors, and partners involved can speak the same language and work together towards the same direction, regardless if they are private or public entities.

It is through consistent effort that irregularities and deviations from what is best for the business can be adjusted. I believe that in the future for startups, startup governance will be the base requirement for any startup that wants to be in business.  

—

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.

Image credit: Canva Pro

The post Startup governance and how it can make or break the business appeared first on e27.

Echelon Singapore is Southeast Asia’s premier tech and startup conference, hosted annually by e27. It serves as a dynamic hub for startups, investors, and other businesses to connect, collaborate on opportunities in innovation and growth. Building on Echelon’s ten-year success, Echelon Philippines (ECPH) brought the same spirit of innovation to the local ecosystem. It emphasised the unique challenges and opportunities of the Philippine market. ECPH underscores the growing importance of the Philippines as a hub for tech innovation in Southeast Asia.

As we prepare for Echelon 2025, we are looking back at some of our partners who have made this event a resounding success. One of our most significant partners is Gateway of Asia, a unique corporate services provider whose ecosystem is known for fostering connections and collaboration across the region. This enduring partnership showcases how fostering a dynamic community becomes easier when like-minded organisations work together. Their involvement also underscores the value of cross-border partnerships in driving regional growth and innovation.

Reaching stakeholders at Echelon and ECPH

“Gateway of Asia views its role in strengthening the startup ecosystem in Asia as a critical one,”  explained Gateway of Asia CEO Elaine Lai. The company believes that fostering innovation, providing essential resources, and facilitating seamless cross-border operations are key. As a result, they are able to empower new businesses to succeed in competitive markets. Gateway of Asia recognises the challenges startups face in dynamic and diverse markets, particularly across Asia. Thus, it commits to supporting growth through a founder-first approach, tailored solutions and strategic partnerships. 

Gateway of Asia understands the complexities of navigating multiple regulatory environments, compliance requirements, and local market dynamics. Tos solve this, he company offers guidance, services, and networks to help overcome these barriers. Participation in events like Echelon and ECPH has been instrumental in forging valuable strategic relationships. This is true particularly with legal, tax, and financial service providers that support cross-border transactions. These alliances enable Gateway of Asia to offer broad, holistic and comprehensive services for their clients as they grow and expand. This ensures their clients are equipped for success in the region.

e27’s established network and reach within the APAC region position it as a key influencer in the tech ecosystem. The platform’s influence is reflected in its ability to connect a diverse range of stakeholders. It brings together investors and corporate leaders. e27 provides invaluable visibility for startups looking to scale across borders. e27’s community is built on dynamic, cross-industry partnerships that foster collaboration and growth. Further, it facilitates access to a network of potential partners and investors. Certainly, e27 plays a pivotal role in supporting startups’ visibility and helping them navigate the complexities of the APAC market.

Also read: Streamlining corporate administration with Gateway of Asia

Building a community with e27 and Gateway of Asia

“Supporting events like Echelon has significantly enhanced Gateway of Asia’s visibility among startups, investors, and corporate leaders in the APAC region by positioning us as a key player in the start-up ecosystem and a trusted partner for business growth,” said Elaine. These opportunities offer Gateway of Asia the chance to showcase its platform, ecosystem and services to a highly relevant audience. As a result, it reinforces its commitment to driving innovation and fostering economic growth across the region.

In addition to visibility, Echelon enabled Gateway of Asia to build valuable strategic relationships. This partnership provides access to a broad network of potential partners and clients. As a result, it fosters collaborations that align with Gateway of Asia’s mission to facilitate cross-border trade and innovation. Through these connections, Gateway of Asia is able to support the startup ecosystem. It provides the resources and opportunities needed to help businesses thrive in competitive markets. Elaine added that Gateway of Asia plans to deepen its collaboration with e27. This partnership is poised to further advance innovation and cross-border collaborations throughout the APAC region.

“These events not only enhance visibility but also offer direct engagement with key stakeholders—startups, investors, corporates, and ecosystem builders—who play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the business landscape,” Elaine reflected. By leveraging these platforms, Gateway of Asia drives strategic initiatives that will continue to foster growth and innovation across the region.

Also read: e27 is driving innovation in APAC’s startup ecosystem with Sendbird

e27’s commitment to partners and the community

Gateway of Asia’s expansion plans in the APAC region focus on enhancing its presence and fostering innovation through strategic partnerships. “With regional offices in Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam, we will open two more offices in the Philippines and Indonesia in 2025. We will roll out more products and services to better support start-ups and our community,” Elaine said. These offices will provide tailored services, including assistance with incorporation, compliance, legal, tax, and payroll management, ensuring seamless operations across borders. Additionally, Gateway of Asia will launch the Gateway Knowledge Hub in early 2025. The hub will offer startups valuable market insights, regulatory updates, and best practices. In doing so, the company will help them navigate regional complexities and make informed strategic decisions.

e27 is committed to empowering partners like Gateway of Asia by providing tailored support that aligns with their strategic goals. Through event partnerships, access to new markets, and enhanced visibility within the APAC startup ecosystem, e27 fosters meaningful collaborations that drive growth and innovation. With its established network and expertise, e27 helps partners navigate the dynamic tech landscape, connect with key stakeholders, and unlock opportunities across borders. For organisations aiming to amplify their impact in the region, e27 offers a proven platform to achieve success.

—

This article is produced by the e27 team

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.

The post e27 and Gateway of Asia transforming Asia’s startup landscape from Singapore to Manila appeared first on e27.

Early this year, the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) 2024 World Competitiveness Ranking ranked Singapore first out of 67 countries as the most competitive economy across the world’s eight major regions. Singapore excelled strongly in economic performance and infrastructure, including human resource availability to meet business needs.

While achieving success is hard, sustaining success is even harder. For Singapore to maintain its competitiveness, the country needs to go above and beyond by embracing new advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), helping workers reskill, and supporting business transformation. 

Fortunately, Singapore already has ambitious plans to position itself as a global hub for AI, as articulated by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in the refreshed National AI Strategy. However, despite its strategic advantages – an ideal location, robust digital infrastructure, and supportive government policies – local tech talent scarcity can potentially hinder progress. This is where tapping on global talent can play a key role in propelling AI advancement and ushering in a new era of competitiveness. 

Despite the strong push for AI outlined by Singapore’s National AI Strategy, the nation still is plagued by challenges in landing the right talent with the right skills. A study conducted by Oliver Wyman and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) revealed difficulties in sourcing strong AI talent for various positions, including principal data engineers, data analysts, lead AI scientists, and more. Overcoming challenges in sourcing top AI talent will be crucial for Singapore to realise its vision and maintain its status on the global stage.

Given this outlook, the democratisation of employment as a result of globalisation can become a powerful tool for both Singaporean companies and the country as a whole. A company can increase its chances of finding the right talent with highly specialised skills by expanding the talent pool outside of the country. Global hiring is an approach that companies worldwide and in Singapore are looking to adopt.

According to Deel’s recent Singapore Business Leader Pulse Check: Talent Landscape research, more than 9 in 10 (93 per cent) of large organisations in Singapore are open to recruiting talent from outside the country.  Talent exists everywhere in the world, and companies are increasingly becoming aware of this. 

Also Read: Why inclusive hiring matters for a startup ecosystem

With global hiring, local companies that are experiencing skill shortages can benefit from finding talent abroad. For instance, they are able to alleviate the burden of finding the right talent while enabling knowledge and skills transfer to existing employees.

In fact, the same report also finds that skills transfer is among the most sought-after benefits, with 58 per cent of organisations surveyed considering it an advantage of global hiring. This can help fast-track reskilling and upskilling of the existing local workforce to ensure they are equipped with the right skills to stay active in this competitive digital economy. 

As a result, it creates a chain reaction that allows the nation to flourish economically. According to the World Economic Forum, a competitive economy boosts productivity, leading to growth, higher income levels, and improved well-being. By enhancing the country’s competitiveness, it can attract more global investors, foster a thriving business environment, and drive sustainable economic growth, ultimately improving the well-being of the country and its citizens.

Also Read: Hiring for your startup: The 5 key attributes of entrepreneur archetypes

Additionally, the new way of working such as hybrid or remote work has also removed barriers for high-skilled talent, who are no longer limited by geography. In this landscape, individuals can now choose where they want to live and how they wish to work.

New online tools have also been developed to address the challenge of scarce talent in specific locations, using technology to eliminate the borders between regions with abundant skilled workers and enabling businesses to hire, pay, and manage these talent seamlessly.

If a country with high competitiveness lacks the necessary talent to propel or maintain its position, it is vital to expand options. Echoing the National AI Strategy, it is imperative for Singapore to leverage its international networks and collaborate with top talent around the world to address the complex challenges facing AI today.

If Singapore broadens its horizons, it not only benefits individuals within the country but also enhances, if not maintains, its global competitiveness. 

—

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.

Image credit: Canva Pro

The post How global hiring accelerates a country’s competitiveness appeared first on e27.

One of the biggest shifts I’ve experienced in my career was moving from the role of an employee to becoming an entrepreneur. It wasn’t just a change in job title or responsibilities; it was a profound shift in how I approached work, challenges, and success.

As an employee, much of my work was guided by external expectations—whether from managers, organisational goals, or the company’s broader mission. Entrepreneurship, however, is different. You are responsible for creating the vision, setting the direction, and navigating every twist and turn along the way.

The mindset shift from employee to entrepreneur required me to take full ownership of every decision I made. While working for someone else offers a degree of structure and predictability, entrepreneurship is often less predictable and more demanding. It requires agility, creativity, and resilience on a scale that I had not previously encountered.

But this shift is also incredibly empowering. The freedom to build something of your own and the autonomy to make key decisions is exhilarating.

Another key difference in this shift is how you measure success. As an employee, success is often tied to meeting performance metrics, achieving short-term goals, or receiving recognition from peers and managers. As an entrepreneur, success is self-defined.

It’s no longer about meeting someone else’s expectations; it’s about fulfilling your own vision and aspirations. Every milestone, from closing a new deal to solving a complex problem, feels more personal and meaningful when it’s driven by your own efforts and strategy.

Also Read: Unlikely mentors: What kids can teach you about entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship also taught me the importance of resilience. There will be setbacks, moments of doubt, and unexpected challenges. But with the right mindset, these obstacles can be turned into opportunities for growth. The entrepreneurial journey is one that constantly tests your patience, adaptability, and determination.

By moving from the role of an employee to an entrepreneur, I learned that the mindset of ownership, autonomy, and resilience is essential for building a successful business.

Key takeaways

• The shift from employee to entrepreneur involves taking complete ownership of your career and decisions, requiring a new level of autonomy, creativity, and resilience.
• Success in entrepreneurship is self-defined, with personal milestones and achievements feeling more meaningful and aligned with your own vision.
• Building resilience and adaptability is key to navigating the unpredictability and challenges of entrepreneurship.

Identify and set your next milestone towards achieving your vision. Celebrate your progress and use it as motivation to continue moving forward. What milestone can you set and achieve today?

—

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.

Image credit: Canva Pro

The post From employee to entrepreneur: The mindset shift that changes everything appeared first on e27.

In the lead-up to the celebration of World Environment Day, it is important to consider how blockchain and regenerative finance is supporting a greener future. 

Let’s start with some facts to give us a sense of why working towards a more sustainable future is vital. Our planet loses 80,000 acres of rainforest every day, having devastating effects on the most vulnerable communities. We are losing 1.2 trillion tons of ice each year, which is the equivalent of the weight of all human-made things. Did you know that many places on Earth may become too hot to live in? This could have catastrophic consequences as annual temperatures continue to rise. 

As our natural environments continue to suffer at the hands of human destruction, how can governments encourage a more positive approach to economic development? The first thing is to recognise the urgency of our environmental needs, and the second is to use emerging tech to provide necessary insights into how best to tackle these large-scale problems. 

Several groundbreaking Web3 projects are already in progress, leading the way in reshaping our relationship with the environment. The power of blockchain technology to extrapolate information in a timely, secure and transparent format makes positive action attainable to all green-related projects. 

Transparent production supply

Blockchain technology enables the creation of transparent supply chains, providing consumers with accurate information about the origin and supply credentials of products. By leveraging blockchain’s immutability and decentralised nature, stakeholders can track and verify the environmental and social impact of goods throughout the supply chain.

Also Read: Echelon 2022: How startups should approach ESG opportunities

This empowers consumers to make informed choices. Celo is a blockchain provider with a long-term focus on providing access to these solutions and supporting projects where positive environmental impact plays a key feature in their roadmap. 

Another project ahead of the curve is Ethichub. They are working directly with farming communities and investors. Using a ReFi protocol, it is revolutionising access to capital for unbanked farmers. Through its crowdlending platform, EthicHub enables these farmers to secure loans at affordable interest rates, creating a win/win situation where all parties involved reap the benefits of their interactions. Since its launch in June 2018, the platform has successfully facilitated over US$3 million in microloans.

Demonstration of data integrity and environmental monitoring

By storing environmental data on an immutable blockchain ledger, stakeholders can ensure the integrity of information related to pollution levels, biodiversity, climate change, and other crucial environmental indicators. Blockchain technology can enhance data integrity.

Combined with decentralised governance mechanisms, this is a powerful tool for ensuring sustainable decisions are maintained, and it guarantees the inclusion of a range of stakeholders. Flare Network’s state connector enables the trustless exchange of data from other blockchains, which should pave the way for enhanced collaboration when tackling issues like refi.

Another notable organisation working on climate-based blockchain solutions is BxC, a coalition of activities and industry leaders collaborating to establish principles for impactful blockchain initiatives addressing the climate crisis. 

This collaborative approach can foster sustainable practices, as decentralised organisations can prioritise environmental considerations and align their activities with shared sustainability goals.

Education and awareness using the metaverse

The metaverse can serve as a powerful platform for environmental education and raising awareness. It can also act as a platform for exploring new business models. Upland, a metaverse based on real-world geography, allows entrepreneurs to test start-ups in a virtual environment through their Metaventures programme.

The metaverse offers a unique space to provide a greater understanding of complex environmental issues and inspire others to adopt more sustainable practices in the real world. Using the metaverse, we can encourage environmental responsibility. 

Also Read: How to navigate the investment opportunity in climate tech sector

Using NFT technology to track climate impact

Integrating NFTs with regenerative finance can help create sustainable ways to track our actions. By embedding relevant data in each NFT, we can track the climate impact generated by the underlying project. This data can include metrics such as carbon emissions reduction.

GEIA, the Global Ecological Investment Agency, is developing Geoblocs to provide NFTs as a way for individuals to invest in sustainable farming. This platform will enable individuals to get hands-on with the green-friendly projects that they wish to support. 

Another example is a project called Plastiks, a greentech company focused on revolutionising plastic recovery and recycling rates worldwide. The platform empowers companies to combat plastic pollution head-on by sponsoring the recovery of plastic waste across the globe. Using blockchain technology to meticulously track every piece of plastic, ensuring it never finds its way into a landfill. 

Not only can investors track their contributions to climate-positive activities, but it also allows the everyday consumer to get involved in new incentive mechanisms to support regenerative agriculture. 

There are many other ways that blockchain technology is contributing to our greener future. The tokenisation of excess energy, trading of carbon credits and supporting peer-to-peer energy sharing are three more innovations that many projects are engaged with.

Emerging technologies are allowing investors to align their values with their capital. Impact investing and funding through regenerative finance is only in its infancy but shows vast promise when considering the allocation of finance to our most precious resources. 

—

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

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

Image credit: Canva Pro

This article was first published on June 5, 2023

The post Celebrate World Environment Day: 4 ways blockchain and ReFi are supporting a greener future  appeared first on e27.

When non-renewable resources (such as minerals) are extracted and processed for insulation, it damages habitats and raises greenhouse gas emissions. Similar to this, energy-intensive energy sources sourced from fossil fuels provide significant amounts of carbon dioxide emissions, aggravating climate change.

While inappropriate insulation disposal and a lack of recycling choices cause environmental challenges and waste management problems, the production of foams and synthetic insulation uses blowing agents that generate strong greenhouse gases. I think the sector should emphasise energy-efficient production processes, sustainable sourcing, and increased recycling programs to address these issues.

Adopting eco-friendly insulation can benefit many industries, including cold chain, construction, energy, and more. 

Cold chain

By using environmentally friendly insulation, the storage and transportation of temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical and food products stand to benefit significantly.

First off, using materials with strong heat resistance boosts energy efficiency, cutting down on operating expenses. Additionally, good insulation guarantees dependable temperature regulation, protecting the effectiveness of expensive goods.

The industry can lower its carbon footprint and adhere to sustainability objectives by using eco-friendly insulation created from renewable resources. Cost reductions are achieved through reduced energy use and operational costs for things like freight and cooling systems. 

Construction

Adopting environmentally friendly insulation would have a number of advantages for the construction industry. One is a reduction in the amount of energy used for heating and cooling due to heat transfer and air leakage. This results in lower energy costs and a smaller environmental effect.

High-performance insulation also makes living and working spaces more comfortable and healthy by maintaining superior indoor air quality, improving thermal comfort, and reducing noise transmission.

By making buildings more durable and lowering maintenance requirements and waste production, these materials help construction projects adhere to sustainability certifications, satisfy legal requirements, and meet the expanding market demand for environmentally friendly structures. 

The future of insulation: Unveiling the power of Aerogel

A cutting-edge insulating material known for its remarkable qualities, aerogel’s distinctive nanoporous structure consists mostly of air or gas. This framework has an extraordinarily low density and comprises a three-dimensional network of connected solid particles. 

Aerogel represents a significant improvement over current insulation materials for several reasons. The first is that it has a very low thermal conductivity thanks to its nanoporous structure, which efficiently reduces heat transmission for improved thermal insulation. The light weight and thinness of aerogel are another benefit.

Aerogel is remarkably effective as an insulator but is also exceedingly light and can be produced in a variety of shapes. This high quality gives it adaptability for a range of applications, including electronics, transportation, aircraft, and building. Additionally, the structure of the material confers considerable moisture resistance, reducing the risk of moisture-related damage. 

Also Read: Biotech is set to push new frontiers in precision oncology therapeutics

In addition, aerogel has a remarkable ability to withstand fire and extremely high temperatures without losing its structural integrity. It can be created utilising recycled materials and produced from abundant, renewable resources like silica obtained from sand, which would align it with sustainability objectives.

Applications spanning different industries

Aerogel’s exceptional thermal insulation performance, lightweight nature, versatility, moisture resistance, fire resistance, and eco-friendliness make it a highly desirable choice for a wide range of applications in industries where long-term reliable insulation, space savings, and energy savings are critical. 

Aerogel applications include thermal runaway prevention in Lithium-ion batteries in the electric vehicle industry, fire-resistant and thermal insulation coating, pipeline insulation in energy infrastructure, oil and gas, marine, aerospace, and automotive industries, thermal apparel, light-weight and thermally insulating concrete/cement foam, render/plaster, and daylighting applications in the construction and building industries.

Global megatrends calling for innovation in insulation sectors

Sustainability and environmental awareness

Growing environmental awareness and the urgency to address climate change have increased the demand for sustainable solutions across industries. Buildings and infrastructure are increasingly being scrutinised for their carbon footprints and environmental impact. Premium eco-friendly insulation supports these goals by providing energy-efficient and environmentally responsible alternatives.

Energy efficiency and green building standards

Energy efficiency has become a critical factor in construction and design. Green building codes encourage the use of insulating materials that improve energy efficiency and prevent heat loss or gain. Premium eco-friendly insulation products exceed these exacting standards by delivering superior thermal insulation and contributing to energy-efficient building envelopes.

Net-zero and low-carbon initiatives

The global transition to net-zero and low-carbon economies has increased demand for insulating solutions that help to conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Premium eco-friendly insulation is critical to meeting energy efficiency goals and reducing the carbon footprint of buildings and infrastructure.

Health and indoor environmental quality

Because of the rising emphasis on occupant health and well-being, there is a greater demand for insulating materials that prioritise indoor environmental quality. Premium eco-friendly insulating products frequently have low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and reduce the discharge of dangerous compounds, thereby improving indoor air quality and creating better living and working environments.

Urbanisation and infrastructure development

Rapid urbanisation and infrastructural growth need the use of environmentally friendly building materials, such as insulation. Premium eco-friendly insulation meets the demand for efficient and ecologically conscious construction techniques as cities grow and new structures are developed.

Also Read: Life in plastic, it’s not fantastic: Unearthing the solutions (Part 3)

Green policies that don’t hit your bottom line

Businesses can embrace green policies without jeopardising their financial success by using solutions that promote sustainability while also delivering cost savings and commercial benefits. Here are a few ideas:

Energy efficiency

Improving energy efficiency has the potential to cut operational expenses considerably. Energy audits can be performed by businesses to identify areas of energy waste and adopt actions such as improving lighting systems, establishing smart energy management systems, and optimising HVAC systems. Energy-efficient measures not only reduce environmental effects but also save money in the long run.

Waste reduction and recycling

Trash reduction and recycling programs can reduce trash disposal expenses while also potentially generating cash through recycling initiatives. Businesses may reduce garbage transported to landfills, conserve resources, and improve their environmental performance by employing effective waste management procedures.

Supply chain optimisation

Collaboration with sustainable suppliers and the use of green procurement strategies can improve the supply chain’s sustainability. Businesses can decrease environmental risks, improve their reputation, and contribute to overall sustainability goals by selecting suppliers who share their environmental values.

Product innovation and sustainable design

Integrating sustainability into product development and design can result in competitive benefits and increased customer appeal. Businesses may meet consumer demand for sustainable solutions and differentiate themselves in the market by designing products with eco-friendly materials, energy efficiency features, and recyclability.

Employee engagement and education

Encouraging staff engagement and providing sustainability education can help to develop an organisational culture of environmental responsibility. Employees can share their ideas for green initiatives, energy conservation, and trash reduction. Employees who are engaged are more likely to support and implement green policies, resulting in better sustainability outcomes.

Government incentives and grants

Many governments offer incentives and rewards to enterprises that embrace environmentally friendly practices. Investigating and utilising these programs can assist in offsetting initial expenses and making green efforts more financially viable.

By implementing these strategies, businesses can adopt green policies while realising cost savings, operational efficiencies, improved brand reputation, and enhanced competitiveness. The integration of sustainability into core business practices can be both financially and environmentally beneficial, enabling businesses to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape that prioritises environmental responsibility.

—

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

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

Image credit: Canva Pro

This article was first published on June 19, 2023

The post Insulation’s environmental impact: A call for sustainable innovation appeared first on e27.