Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) runs a unique incubation and acceleration programme for global startups. Since its launch in 2001, it has created a thriving I&T ecosystem, grooming 12 unicorns, more than 14,000 research professionals, and over 1,700 technology companies from 27 countries and regions focused on developing healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies, etc.

Last Friday, HKSTP held its flagship Elevator Pitch Competition (EPiC) 2024 in Hong Kong, where German Li-ion startup tozero was crowned the champion. HKSTP invited several tech journalists from Asia and Europe to witness the EPiC event. On the event’s sideline, the journalists were introduced to several startups that have developed path-breaking products.

Below are the snapshots of the five innovators we met at the HKSTP.

Aero Systems

Based at the University of Queensland, Aero Systems specialises in applied technology and is engaged in the R&D of aviation training tools. The focus is on using the possibility of modern technology to encourage institutions and partners across Asia Pacific to adopt flight simulators and autonomous learning solutions in establishing training facilities. Established in 2017, Aero Systems aims to expedite learning even with complex flight procedures and simulate a hands-on operation environment, thus fostering career advancement and increasing safety levels and mission success.

AI Guided

Founded in 2020 in Hong Kong, AI Guided specialises in AI, haptic-reflex actuation, and environmental visualisation, especially for smart cities, social connectivity, and social welfare applications. It develops high-tech and innovative assistive platforms and portable devices for the visually impaired and the elderly. The startup’s flagship solution is GUIDI, an AIoT-based visual guiding system, which is equipped with advanced night vision cameras, immediate object recognition and path planning features, and speechless communication for directional guidance.

SAMBO

Sambo Group is engaged in the R&D of innovative technologies and nano-advanced functional materials for environmental protection and energy conservation.

It currently offers three products:

Light Fresh: A light self-cleaning sterilisation, disinfection, deodorisation, and air purification technology used mainly for indoor air purification and sterilisation and disinfection of places.

Cool Fresh: A nano thermal insulation coating technology used mainly for energy conservation, insulation and cooling of buildings.

Solar Fresh: A dust-proof, self-cleaning technology used mainly in self-cleaning designs for glass, ceramic tiles and metal substrate surfaces. It has excellent application and economic potential in self-cleaning and power generation of solar photovoltaic panels.

RaSpect Systems

RaSpect offers a cutting-edge Al platform for property inspections. It is designed for building owners, facility management, and building professionals, streamlines risk assessment, and improves performance evaluations.

The startup harnesses the power of AI and robotics technology to enhance infrastructure inspection and monitoring. It develops an intelligent platform for achieving higher safety, serviceability, and sustainability levels in a built infrastructure.

TIME Medical

TIME Medical develops cost-effective imaging systems and AI-based tele-imaging to bring advanced, accessible and affordable medical imaging products and services to global markets. It develops innovative imaging technologies for specialised applications in neonatal care, women’s health, and elderly care.

The company’s open MRI system is suitable for claustrophobic patients, provides better patient comfort with six-directional patient table movement for optimal ISO centre positioning, and its permanent magnet requires very low power to operate, minimising operation costs. It uses advanced technology to replace existing X-ray technology, which poses dangers to patients.

—

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

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

The post Here are the five innovative startups we met at Hong Kong Science and Technology Park appeared first on e27.

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

A flourishing innovation ecosystem has resulted in future investors noting the lucrative opportunities presented by allocating their assets to the venture capital space. In Southeast Asia, early-stage venture capital is thriving, with angel investors playing a crucial role in nurturing startups, especially in underserved markets like Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam. These emerging economies offer a wealth of untapped talent and innovative ideas, allowing investors to participate in what could be the best vintage of young startups from across the region.

Unfortunately, access to these startups has proven difficult, with a high barrier to entry. If their profile is anything but a founder, a family member, or a close friend of one, it is unlikely an investor will be able to join a startup from its inception. Becoming an angel investor is more feasible if they are a wealthy, accredited investor.

With the power of technology, A2D grants access to early-stage startups and empowers investors by lowering the knowledge gap, broadening access to venture investing, and breaking down entry barriers.

Unlocking opportunities for founders and accredited investors

A2D Ventures is Thailand’s fastest-growing angel investing platform. The platform connects angel investors, family offices, and venture capitalists to come together and discover game-changing startups all across Southeast Asia.

Part of their USP is the simplified startup investing process with a seamless digital model. This approach allows investors to build a diversified startup portfolio alongside trusted VCs from across the globe. A2D Ventures is armed with its philosophies of accelerating regional growth, building a promising portfolio of startups, capitalising on trusted investment opportunities, and democratising the world’s most exclusive asset class: venture capital.

A2D Ventures founders’ expertise comes from extensive backgrounds across consumer technology, business building, growth strategy, angel investing, and venture capital, consisting of Shopee, McKinsey, ECG Venture Capital, Triumph Motorcycles, and Avareum. Their dynamic team and advisors of ex-operators, angel investors, investment managers, and corporate leaders collaborate closely with portfolio companies, providing not just funding but strategic guidance and hyper-local network access.

Also read: Empowering financial resilience with Moomoo Singapore

“We’re empowering investors to pioneer change and foster innovation across Southeast Asia, A2D Ventures is the bridge between promising startups and world-class investors. Together, we’re not just investing in companies; we’re investing in the future of a region, unlocking potential, and shaping tomorrow’s success stories. By streamlining the investment process and breaking down barriers, we’re helping founders navigate the complexities of funding fragmentation and ensuring that every innovative idea has the chance to flourish,” says Ankit Upadhyay, Founder & General Partner, of A2D Ventures.

They aim to expand access to innovative, early-stage startups across Southeast Asia and positively impact the region by enabling job creation and economic growth. As a result, the cycle continues, and startups can empower individuals and communities and contribute to the region’s sustainable development. Apart from providing accessible funding access to investors, A2D Ventures focuses on diversity by creating an inclusive ecosystem where everyone can succeed regardless of background.

Empowering entrepreneurs and investors to come together, fostering collaboration and innovation

A2D Ventures is looking forward to showcasing its team’s expertise and insights through speaking engagements and workshops. Joining other investors, Ankit Upadhyay, Founder & General Partner, will speak at the panel titled “Unveiling VC 2.0 or Navigating the Chaos? Decoding the Future of SEA Venture Capital in 2024”. In this session, investors will head into the rapidly evolving landscape of venture capital in Southeast Asia and explore the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping VC 2.0. With the region experiencing unprecedented growth in startup activity and investment, understanding the future of venture capital is crucial for entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem players alike.

Ankit will also moderate a roundtable discussion on “Beyond Borders: Angel Investing Across Southeast Asia (by A2D Ventures).” The roundtable event aims to shed light on how to identify promising startups and investment opportunities and how the Southeast Asian investment landscape has evolved in the last few years.

Fund managers, general partners, family offices, angel investors, accelerators, and ecosystem enablers can also benefit from meeting A2D Ventures to facilitate strategic partnerships and co-investment opportunities for their respective portfolios. A2D Ventures looks forward to engaging with industry associations and communities to connect with like-minded individuals, share knowledge and insights, and build connections within the startup ecosystem.

Also read: Transforming the creative economy and entertainment industry with TipTip

A2D Ventures is one of the many exciting industry leaders from across the Southeast Asian region who will be joining us for Echelon X. Joining them are other key leaders, visionary entrepreneurs, and groundbreaking startups from all corners of the region who will be gathering together for two packed days. Echelon X will feature dedicated content stages, exhibitions, panel discussions, and more to support and empower the tech startup ecosystem with actionable insights through a series of knowledge-sharing activities.

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

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

The post Discover promising early-stage startups across Southeast Asia with A2D Ventures appeared first on e27.

At Echelon X next week, participants will immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of conference themes, spanning Agile Business Practices, Sustainability & Responsibility, Collaborative Ecosystems, and Fostering Creativity. Each theme delves into essential aspects of modern business dynamics, offering insights and strategies to navigate the ever-evolving landscape.

Regardless of industry verticals, attendees will find common ground in their reliance on robust and dependable cloud services. The popularity of cloud services stems from various factors, including cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and scalability, which are vital for businesses seeking to adapt and thrive in dynamic environments. Notable trends in cloud computing, such as the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), underscore the transformative potential of cloud technology in driving innovation and efficiency across diverse sectors.

In this listicle, we are looking at some of the biggest names in the field of cloud computing. If you are new to cloud computing, they could help provide you with a map of the ecosystem and help you find the most suitable services for your business needs.

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Launched in 2006, Amazon Web Services (AWS) emerged as a trailblazer in exposing critical infrastructure services to businesses through web services, revolutionising the concept of cloud computing. The fundamental advantage of cloud computing, embodied by AWS, lies in its capacity to transform capital infrastructure expenses into variable costs, ushering in a new business model. Businesses no longer contend with planning and procuring servers and IT resources well in advance; instead, they can harness AWS to access resources precisely when needed, leveraging Amazon’s expertise and economies of scale for swifter results and reduced costs.

AWS is a cornerstone in the global landscape, offering a highly reliable, scalable, and cost-effective infrastructure platform that empowers hundreds of thousands of businesses across 190 countries. With strategically located data centre facilities in the US, Europe, Singapore, and Japan, AWS caters to customers from diverse industries, providing them with a low-cost, elastic, open, and secure platform to meet their evolving needs efficiently.

Also Read: 2024 cloud trends: AI-powered machine learning, distributed databases, and more

Microsoft

Microsoft Corporation, an esteemed American multinational corporation and technology giant, has its headquarters in Redmond, Washington. Renowned for its innovative software offerings, Microsoft boasts a distinguished portfolio, including the iconic Windows operating system line, the comprehensive Microsoft 365 suite comprising productivity applications, and the user-friendly Edge web browser.

Microsoft excels in hardware innovation alongside its software prowess, with flagship products such as the Xbox video game consoles and the versatile Microsoft Surface lineup of touchscreen personal computers. Moreover, Microsoft Azure, previously known as Windows Azure, stands as the company’s cutting-edge public cloud computing platform, catering to the evolving needs of businesses worldwide.

Alibaba Cloud

Established in September 2009, Alibaba Cloud is a pioneer in developing highly scalable cloud computing and data management services, catering to the diverse needs of large and small businesses, financial institutions, governments, and various other organisations. As a subsidiary of Alibaba Group, a global leader in e-commerce, Alibaba Cloud operates the extensive network that fuels Alibaba Group’s vast online and mobile commerce ecosystem.

Leveraging its expertise, Alibaba Cloud offers a comprehensive suite of cloud computing services tailored to support sellers and third-party entities participating in this thriving ecosystem. These services provide them with flexible and cost-effective solutions to fulfil their networking and information requirements.

DigitalOcean

DigitalOcean, dedicated to simplifying cloud computing, empowers businesses to focus on creating transformative software that shapes the world. Through its mission-critical infrastructure and comprehensive managed services, DigitalOcean facilitates the rapid development, deployment, and scaling of applications for developers at startups and burgeoning digital enterprises.

Whether establishing a digital footprint or crafting digital products, DigitalOcean provides a seamless blend of simplicity, security, community, and customer support. By minimising the time spent on infrastructure management, DigitalOcean enables its customers to allocate more resources towards building innovative applications that fuel business expansion and drive technological advancement.

Also Read: From threat to transparency: Inside Cloudflare’s response to a holiday breach

VMware

VMware by Broadcom is a leading provider of software solutions that harmonise and simplify hybrid cloud environments, catering to the needs of the world’s most intricate organisations. Through the amalgamation of public-cloud scalability and flexibility with the security and performance of private clouds, VMware empowers its clientele to modernise, optimise, and safeguard their applications and businesses across diverse landscapes.

With the versatility to be deployed in software-defined data centres, cloud environments, various applications, and the enterprise edge, VMware’s comprehensive software portfolio enhances the innovation, connectivity, resilience, and security of global enterprises, ensuring they remain at the forefront of technological advancement.

Oracle

As a cloud technology company, Oracle provides organisations worldwide with essential computing infrastructure and software, fostering innovation, enhancing efficiencies, and driving effectiveness. Pioneering the world’s first and only autonomous database, Oracle prioritises the organisation and security of customer data. Oracle Cloud Infrastructure offers superior performance, security, and cost-effectiveness, enabling seamless workload migration between on-premises systems and the cloud and across different cloud platforms.

Their suite of cloud applications equips business leaders with modern tools to foster innovation, achieve sustainable growth, and bolster resilience. Beyond revolutionising business operations, Oracle’s work extends to defending governments and advancing scientific and medical research. Millions of users, from nonprofits to corporations of all sizes, rely on Oracle’s solutions to streamline supply chains, humanise HR functions, adapt swiftly to new financial strategies, and facilitate global data connectivity.

F5

F5, a leading multi-cloud application services and security company, is dedicated to realising a superior digital world. Collaborating with the globe’s largest and most sophisticated enterprises, F5 strives to enhance and safeguard every application and API, regardless of their location – be it on-premises, in the cloud, or at the edge. By empowering organisations to deliver outstanding, secure digital experiences for their clientele, F5 ensures they maintain a competitive edge and proactively mitigate evolving threats in the digital landscape.

—

Image Credit: 123RF

The post These 7 tech titans are empowering your business with reliable cloud services appeared first on e27.

Give me a good headline for the following news article:

Tech giant Microsoft has committed to equipping 2.5 million Southeast Asian people with AI skills by 2025.

Per a statement, the skilling initiatives will be implemented in partnership with governments, nonprofit and corporate organisations and communities across Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The new programme aligns with the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025 to build an AI-ready talent pool in the region.

Also Read: iFLYTEK exec on why SEA is crucial for the development of global AI landscape

Microsoft’s skilling initiatives will focus on four areas: building an inclusive, AI-ready workforce; bridging the cybersecurity talent gap; enhancing developers’ AI skills; and empowering nonprofit organisations to maximise their social impact.

Building an inclusive, AI-ready workforce

Microsoft will help strengthen vocational education systems across the region to provide AI skills in partnership with the ASEAN Foundation and education ministries in the ten member states, benefitting an estimated 644,000 vocational students.

Through the AI TEACH for Indonesia and AI TEACH Malaysia programmes, Microsoft and the foundation will provide technical and vocational education and training students with AI skills. Microsoft is also training and educating 100,000 underserved youths and job seekers in AI, data, and security through its partnership with Kartu Prakerja, a pre-employment programme in Indonesia.

In addition, the software honcho is launching the AI Skills for the AI-enabled Tourism Industry programme to skill 100,000 young entrepreneurs involved in tourism businesses across minor-tier geographic provinces in all five regions of Thailand.

In the Philippines, it aims to equip 1 million Department of Education learners from kindergarten to grade 12 with AI and cybersecurity skills, ensuring their readiness for future careers and employment opportunities. Furthermore, it will strengthen its collaboration with the nation’s Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) by investing in a new initiative to equip 100,000 TESDA female learners with AI and cybersecurity skills.

Microsoft will also expand its partnership with the UNDP Asia Pacific in Indonesia to Malaysia and Vietnam, helping 570,000 youth from underserved communities enhance their employability and work readiness through access to AI fluency skills.

Helping bridge the cybersecurity talent gap

Under its Ready4AI&Security programme, Microsoft will train 15,000 young individuals in Indonesia and Malaysia, focusing on providing opportunities for women to build cybersecurity careers. This will include access to Microsoft’s Security training and certifications. The region is experiencing the largest skills gap in its cybersecurity workforce globally, with a shortfall of 2.7 million people in 2023.

Enhancing developers’ AI skills to foster innovation

Microsoft has launched the Asia AI Odyssey campaign to support the ASEAN region’s seven million-strong developer community, highlighting how Microsoft’s AI Applied Skills validate the specific technical competencies required to build transformative AI applications. The campaign runs across Asia and aims to train 30,000 developers in ASEAN countries, encouraging greater use of AI services in the digital economy.

Also Read: AI: Boon or bane? Workers fear job loss despite productivity gains

Empowering nonprofit organisations to maximise their social impact

The company will also provide nonprofits in ASEAN countries access to the Microsoft Resources Hub and the LinkedIn for Nonprofits Resource Hub to help maximise their social impact and lead change in the AI era.

—

The post Microsoft to empower 2.5M Southeast Asians with AI skills by 2025 appeared first on e27.

When we talk about sustainability and climate change, we immediately associate our thoughts with big, lofty ambitions and initiatives from government agencies and big organisations.

However, can we also talk about how smaller businesses can contribute to this bigger picture? As a business owner of two small product-based e-commerce brands, I am often thinking about how to be more sustainable in my business practices yet maintaining the cost-effectiveness of it all.

Let’s face it: being sustainable could be expensive and negatively affect our bottom lines. I may not have reached the level that I want my businesses to be at in terms of sustainability, but I am taking baby steps.

Through design and mindset change

When we talk about sustainability to a normal consumer, they will probably be most familiar with the 3Rs that have been inculcated in us since young. But how many of us really went out of our way to put all that into practice? The lowest-lying fruit would probably be household recycling, but even then, the domestic recycling rate in Singapore itself stood at only 12 per cent in 2022.

The products that are designed for my two brands, Playand and A Mighty Mum, are specifically designed to be multi-functional for these purposes — to prolong the usage and lifespan (reuse) and also to promote lesser purchase since one item can fulfill many uses (reduce).

These 2Rs are harder to achieve, but through the multifunctional nature of my product designs, I believe that changes in consumer behaviour can be invariably achieved when consumers buy the products and cut down on the purchases of other products habitually.

Packaging vs protection

Another all too common problem faced by smaller business owners is costs associated with being sustainable. Being sustainable comes at a cost, and with small business owners already struggling with so many aspects of running the businesses, sustainability could be the last thing on their minds.

Also Read: Rewiring our world: How neuroscience unlocks the secret to sustainable tech

As a product-based business owner, I believe that packaging is an integral and essential part of my business. They matter a lot because not only do they protect the contents during transportation, they carry the brand name on them.

For A Mighty Mum, which is a clothing line, we have already taken steps to minimise our environmental footprint by ensuring that every piece of our clothing does not come tagged with a plastic/paper tag. We have considered switching to biodegradable or paper packaging to house each individual piece of clothing, but the risks associated with water damage during transportation would create an even higher wastage since these clothes cannot be sold and need to be discarded if soiled or damaged.

For Playand, we have cut out the use of printing explainer postcards in each package by printing them directly on the boxes itself. We are also in the midst of cutting out printed branded tapes since these have no additional direct benefit in making the brand stand out more.

A Mighty Haven social initiative

Lastly, we have also recently launched a social initiative — A Mighty Haven, where we collect preloved maternity, breastfeeding-friendly, work-appropriate clothing, baby clothing, and toys to redistribute to other mummies and children who are in need. The redistribution of clothings and toys will be done in a comfortable and inviting retail space, where these mummies in need can shop for three to five pieces of items for free.

In this way, we are saving these items from landfills and also giving the mummies in need a chance to shop joyfully without any financial guilt while preparing for pregnancy, breastfeeding, motherhood, or the workforce in general. If you reside in Singapore and would like to find out more about contributing to this initiative, visit this link.

Also Read: Building future sustainable business: The role of rural commerce platforms

As a mother of two young kids, I realised the costs of buying all these maternity, baby, and children’s clothes could be an astronomical sum to mummies who are struggling to make ends meet. I have come to realise that beyond my products and what I do within my business to be sustainable, I can also lobby the community of mummies and customers who are in my network to contribute to this social cause while promoting reuse and expanding the lifespans of these clothing and toys.

Why is there a specific focus on clothing items? Because textiles are one of the hardest to recycle among all waste, they often involve labour-intensive processes and consume a lot of energy and resources.

Starting small goes a long way

Being sustainable is a sustainable (pun intended) game. If we keep chipping at it in small incremental ways, it will one day amount to much. Collectively, if all small businesses can tweak or even pick one thing to change while keeping costs low in a sustainable way, the impact of the efforts adds up.

We may not have fanciful metrics to showcase or lofty ambitions to change the world, but we are doing what we can within our own spheres of influence and control, one baby step at a time.

—

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

The post Can a small business owner be sustainable in a sustainable manner? appeared first on e27.

In recent years, financial services worldwide, particularly in Europe, have been undergoing a transformation with increased attention paid to sustainability and innovative technologies. Investors are increasingly seeking to finance sustainable solutions to respond to regulators and meet customer expectations.

In addition to this pressure, the reporting requested and the quality of the benchmarks increased with a clearer framework, and the expected information regarding sustainability became more solid. As stakeholders step up their demands for greater transparency, the demands for realistic and auditable sustainability measures will be even greater.

Indeed, the growing range of themes linked to sustainable development, including biodiversity, transition, adaptation, and inclusive finance, play an increasingly important role, while the market for green, social, sustainable financial instruments linked to sustainable development (GIS) continues to grow rapidly.

Furthermore, the growing urgency to combat climate change is driving demand for climate risk management, voluntary carbon offsets, increasing consumer incentives and promoting sustainable cities, industries, and agriculture – reflecting a reinforced commitment to carbon neutrality.

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

These trends reflect the increasingly holistic approach taken by the public and private sectors around the world towards sustainable finance and sustainability in general, as they commit to solving environmental and sustainability challenges constantly evolving.

Sustainable finance and technology in the European banking sector today

Globally, the logic behind innovative solutions embodies a paradigm shift aimed at encouraging actions by companies or countries to accelerate socio-economic transformation.

Innovative solutions, in this context, are neither inventions nor limited to technology, even if naturally, these are most often inventions focused on technologies.

The financial sector in Europe has sought to invest in these innovative technological solutions with creative approaches that integrate sustainability across global value chains.

These innovative solutions that integrate the environment are also challenges that modify well-established processes. These creative “green” technological solutions are applied to ecosystem services, products, processes, market approaches and organisational structures that should lead to improved sustainability, productivity and “sustainable” (ecological and economic).

Innovative solutions require thinking about the life cycle while integrating all aspects of sustainability: economic, social, and environmental and promoting partnerships across all value chains.

Indeed, in the financial sector, like any other sector, technology plays an essential role in enabling sustainable finance to intensify action in favour of climate commitments. European banks are using technology to deliver their ESG commitments in a way that improves sustainability credentials.

Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain are helping to overcome challenges in developing sustainable finance while improving accessibility, impact, and reach.

AI

AI, including machine learning, natural language processing, and generative AI, improves sustainability insights and assessments. The application of AI can unlock untapped value from large amounts of available data, helping to pave the way for more comprehensive and faster implementation and adoption of green and sustainable frameworks and practices in finance.

Predictive modelling techniques powered by machine learning can help develop risk models that consider sustainability risk factors. They can also help fill gaps in sustainability disclosures by using AI simulations to predict potential outcomes that would otherwise not be obvious.

Also Read: Critical considerations: Address these 5 questions before scaling your tech startup

AI can also be used to detect inconsistencies in company reporting with other data sources to address money laundering concerns. These approaches, based on the intersection of data and AI techniques, provide a more solid basis for more informed decision-making and capital mobilisation regarding sustainability.

IoT

IoT and sensor technologies also include spatial information technologies and satellite remote sensing. More generally, they contribute to improving data collection and enable continuous monitoring and reporting of sustainability-related measures. Climate data collected from IoT devices and telemetry sensors is used to assess and verify the impact of large-scale sustainability projects, enabling proactive management of sustainability requirements. The proper use of IoT technologies can accelerate the transition to carbon-neutral banking and adaptation to climate change.

Certain banks are mainly studying two use cases. The first is specifically linked to sustainable buildings (and bank branch network) management using IoT. They collect real data from their employees, their devices, and their assets. This data also allows them to define KPIs and make the best decisions for “facility management”.

The second use case is customer-oriented to improve the customer experience while reducing costs. Banks are turning to IoT by using beacons to send personalised offers to customers, and they are no longer in bulk (less storage data) in particular.

Blockchain

Blockchain, this decentralised and secure electronic ledger often considered “the biggest technological upheaval in several decades”, is still in its infancy but promises countless applications that could simplify investments in sustainable development. Blockchain technologies support sustainable finance by improving data transparency, making claims irrefutable, and detecting inconsistencies in disclosures.

Blockchain digital identities and self-executing smart contracts add the ability to streamline consensus between parties undertaking climate finance streams, from verifying ESG measures to creating new sustainable finance products.

Solutions using blockchain capabilities fortify investor and market confidence through the prevention of greenwashing, heightened transparency, traceability, security, and efficiency. Future possibilities include the issuance of sovereign green bonds from governments, micro-credit and collateral security platforms, digital identity, and funds transfer infrastructures.

Collaboration and openness to the world of platforms, beyond European borders, with the ecosystem and the high-tech community will thus be able to make a great contribution to all these actors who truly aspire to a sustainable world considering consciousness, transparency, accountability, and the required degree of urgency towards a sustainable global economy.

—

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

The post Europe’s financial challenge: Can tech bridge the gap to sustainable practices? appeared first on e27.

According to Forbes Advisor compiled statistics, it takes around six months for a company to break even in a new role and yet 30 per cent of new hires leave within 90 days.  This ongoing mismatch between how long it takes to onboard a new employee versus the time it takes for that employee to make a call on whether or not to stay in their new job has associated costs that go beyond wages and salaries. And in the case of a budding startup, employee turnover can disrupt or restrain your company’s momentum.

Hiring perceived top talents is expensive, more so if you lose them

The reasons why employees leave your company are not new. The reality of their role does not meet expectations. Company culture is not a good fit. The onboarding experience is bad or disorganised. Actual experience with management is different from the perceptions generated during the interview process.

There is no shortage of advice and tips on how budding startups should market themselves to get and retain top talents. But it is few and far between that startups are asked to do an honest to goodness assessment of the type of hire that it can realistically afford.

And so, startups join the race to attract and, bluntly put — lure — those they perceive as high performers into the Company, only to lose or fire them shortly thereafter due to mismatched expectations, all of which are at a huge cost to the business. The Work Institute’s Retention report put the replacement cost at 33 per cent of that employee’s annual salary.

Also Read: Unlocking Trends: Jobstreet by SEEK’s Hiring, Compensation & Benefits Report 2024

 Avoiding the red flags of a mismatched hire

Startups can avoid the pitfall of hiring the wrong talent by incorporating the following reality checklist in their hiring process:

Do not oversell your company’s culture

There is a very fine line between your actual work culture and where you desire it to be.  Be honest and forthcoming. There is no value in selling a culture that does not exist. Instead, talk about the culture you want to build, where you think your company is currently, and why you think they could help you get there. By doing so, you do not mislead the candidate into thinking of a different version of your work environment in their head.

Stick to a predetermined checklist

In Malcolm Gladwell’s Blink, he pointed out that our snap judgments can be both the product and the roof of prejudice and discrimination. Our first impressions can colour the way we interact with the candidate, and we form this in the first few seconds of the interview. Applying the same structured interview process across all applicants can address this bias.

As much as it is tempting to diverge from the checklist when you are having a great time interviewing the candidate, remember that not everybody can walk their talk, and it is your job to find that out early in the interview process.

Acknowledge that past career successes are subjective

Candidates’ proven track record is not always a sure indicator that they will be valuable in your startup. Dig deeper into the type of work environment and work ethic of the companies they were with during the interview process so you can draw common ground with yours. If a VP of Sales candidate has solid experience and consistently delivered results working for matured companies only, they are most likely struggling to craft and execute your strategy to hit product market fit.

Also Read: Hiring for scale: The evolution of your startup’s customer operations team

Communicate clear expectations and description of the role

There is often an unconscious tendency to spend a lot of time sizing the candidate’s capacity, qualifications, and previous work experience, and not enough time is spent discussing what the work actually entails and whether it is something that the candidate can carry out effectively.

Minimise open-ended questions when screening for skill qualifications

Asking questions like “How do you handle situations where you are expected to deliver multiple priorities at a constrained timeframe?” may give you answers you want to hear but does very little to understanding the candidate’s capacity. Instead, you can ask, “Describe to me any previous work experience where you were asked to deliver multiple priorities at a constrained timeframe.”

 What may be good for the gander is not good for the goose

The Harvard Business Review points out that as much as 80 per cent of employee turnover is due to bad hiring decisions. Replacing a mismatched hire is a tedious and daunting task. It is not only costly; it also affects the morale of the remaining employees, who will have to pick up the slack while the role is unfilled and who would have to retrain (again) the replacement when they are hired.

As venture funding dries up, Startups should hire the talent that matches their current growth trajectory and their current culture to avoid unnecessary costs associated with a mismatch hire. In the end, there is very little value in hiring someone else’s rockstar employee if the environment in which they thrived is not the same as yours.

—

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

The post The hidden cost of bad hiring decisions and how to avoid them appeared first on e27.

In Thailand, parcel companies mainly use trains, the most cost-effective mode of transportation, to deliver cargo. However, the underdevelopment of the country’s railway system forces them to use small trucks extensively.

Uwe Dettmann and the team sensed an opportunity there and launched APX (Asia Pallet Express).

Founded in 2019 by Dettmann, Sorawit Tantrakulcharoen, and Sukanya Thamthada, APX provides door-to-door cargo transportation services through its network, with modern platforms for LTL (less-than-truckload) and palletised cargo services. It aims to build a connected truck transport network in Thailand and the ASEAN region to improve logistic efficiency while reducing CO2 emissions and the number of trucks needed on the road in the long run.

Also Read: APX gets ORZON’s backing to build a connected truck transport network in Thailand

“The LTL model allows customers to pay only for the space they use rather than chartering an entire truck seen in the full-truckload (FTL) model. Moreover, the hub-and-spoke approach streamlines distribution networks and leveraging the efficiency of the LTL model to cater to varying shipment sizes and destinations,” says Dettmann, CEO of APX.

LTL, a proven model in regions like the EU, the UK, and the US, has shown its adaptability and effectiveness. APX tailors this model to the unique demands of the Asian market, leveraging Thailand’s strategic geographic location as a gateway to Southeast Asia and major shipping hubs.

APX gathers fragmented trucking companies in various areas through its LTL model and hub-and-spoke trucking system and divides them according to their expertise in first-mile, line-haul, and last-mile services.

By having them operate together under its network, APX consolidates shipments from multiple small trucks into one large co-loaded truck. This reduces CO2 emissions and fuel costs and offers a cheaper alternative.

“For example,” Dettmann shares, “it requires 26 4-wheel trucks to transport 26 tons of consignment over a 300km distance, costing around 26,000 baht (~US$700) and emitting approximately 1,991 kilograms of CO2. Now, if we consolidate the cargo from these 26 small trucks into one 18-wheel vehicle, we’d only pay about 3,818 baht (~US$100), saving more than 7x the cost and reducing CO2 emissions by over 8x to just 292 kilograms.”

“Furthermore, the hub-and-spoke model also helps reduce backhauls. Since every truck in API’s network has to go to the hub, they always carry both inbound and outbound goods, ensuring full loads for both legs of the trip,” he explains.

The startup specialises in door-to-door transportation, allowing businesses and individuals to transport goods conveniently and efficiently. It also uses advanced smart loading plans, plug-in AI, and machine learning to optimise routes and scheduling to ensure timely delivery.

In addition, APX provides warehousing and distribution services, including fulfilment, kitting, co-packing, and custom clearance services, covering land, sea, and air freight.

The startup has established a network of trucking companies with expertise in different jobs and regions. Every truck in its network of over 2,500 undergoes standardised training.  “Previously, fragmented trucking companies couldn’t offer nationwide service. By joining our network, they can now offer this service, creating a win-win situation for both trucking companies and customers,” Dettmann says.

Also Read: Driving change: Female Muslim entrepreneur accelerates success in Indonesia’s logistics-tech arena with TransTRACK.ID

In July last year, APX secured an undisclosed sum in pre-Series A funding led by ORZON Ventures to penetrate Malaysia and Singapore and diversify revenue channels. “Previously, our revenue solely came from domestic services in Thailand. Now, we provide both domestic and international services, covering Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. We also have partnerships allowing customers to ship goods door-to-door to the EU region seamlessly,” Datemann says.

One of APX’s key clients is PTT Oil and Retail (the company behind ORZON). Partnering with ORZON helps APX expand in all aspects, increasing revenue, reducing costs, and facilitating member recruitment and expansion.

APX aims to be a one-stop logistics solution offering customers comprehensive services. “We want to provide access to reliable and cost-effective trucking solutions to any region in Thailand regardless of their location, unlocking their potential to new markets across Southeast Asia and supporting development in ASEAN,” Dettmann concludes.
—

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

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

The post APX wants to revolutionise logistics in SEA with ‘less-than-truckload’ innovation appeared first on e27.

Singapore-based startup Thrixen, which develops a diagnostics platform for infectious diseases, has secured funding, its co-founder and CEO Shavit Clein announced in a LinkedIn post.

The investors are 22Health Ventures, an early-stage healthtech investment firm and biotech company Aldevron’s co-founder John Ballantyne.

The development was first reported by The Business Times, which pegged the funding amount at US$7 million. The capital will be used to advance the development of its diagnostic technology platform.

Also Read: Why ClavystBio believes in life science as a key driver of Singapore’s economy in the future

“I am thrilled to announce that our Thrixen has secured new investors who share our vision for the future of diagnostics! We are honoured that they have put their trust in our team and technology,” Shavit Clein’s post said.

“We have been working closely with the amazing team at 22Health Ventures, who are true partners in our journey to improve healthcare outcomes for patients all over the world. With John Ballantyne , whose support and guidance have been invaluable, we have an incredible team to help us achieve our vision for Thrixen,” he added.

Thrixen was founded in 2021 by international scientists from Singapore and the US. It is a biotech/medtech company that develops a rapid diagnostic platform for infectious diseases. It offers systems for neutralising antibody tests for the detection of COVID-19 diseases.

The startup is involved in the R&D of diagnostic systems and has proprietary technology for biomarker detection, multiplexing, rapid diagnostic testing, and protein engineering.

—

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

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

The post Thrixen bags US$7M in funding to advance its diagnostics platform appeared first on e27.

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

The exponential growth, driven by rapid technological advancements is reshaping consumer decision-making processes. It signals a significant shift in the way people become aware of, consider, and decide to purchase products and services.

Asia Pacific brands are presented with a massive opportunity to leverage the influence of the creative economy. The key is to learn and navigate the complexities of a massive influencer landscape to find and engage the right people for their brands.

This is where communities can play a pivotal role. Utilising creative industry players and communities can supercharge results and transform artists, influencers, content creators, and even broad audiences brought together by shared interests, offering invaluable services to budding entrepreneurs. Within this dynamic ecosystem, creative industry players and communities can monetise their talents and activities while liberating themselves from conventional limitations. However, for them, partnering with brands to sustain growth remains a daunting task, with many facing barriers due to a lack of access to the necessary infrastructures.

Also read: What is Remote? Meet this top global HR platform at Echelon X!

Communities serve as invaluable hubs for brands, offering direct connections with audiences, fostering loyalty, and providing feedback crucial for refining offerings. Audiences amplify brand messages, enabling authentic engagement, and serve as catalysts for word-of-mouth marketing and organically expanding reach. 

Indonesia, one of the largest markets in Southeast Asia, is home to one of the most exciting startups designed to ensure that communities are nurtured and managed properly by allowing them to spearhead and monetise their creative events.

Beyond events ticketing, TipTip builds communities at the forefront

TipTip is an all-rounded entertainment platform that fosters vibrant communities at the forefront of Indonesia’s creative scene. Through a comprehensive suite of features, TipTip connects creators, communities, and brands, revolutionising entertainment engagement.

At the core of TipTip’s mission lies the creation of community clusters tailored to match brand needs. Utilising automated AI, TipTip understands marketing briefs and brand requirements with natural language processing. Smart matching capabilities and data-driven recommendations also help expedite the search for ideal communities.

TipTip’s AI-driven approach revolutionises the brand-community partnership, accelerating the process of finding ideal matches and unlocking new monetisation opportunities for creators and communities. While also providing real-time trends and insights, empowering brands with up-to-the-minute information for informed decisions. TipTip emphasises its commitment to seamless user experiences and efficient operations.

Also read: TipTip: Reshaping Indonesia’s creative economy one creator at a time

The network effect amplifies TipTip’s impact as the community grows. With an expanding roster of communities and events, users access diverse experiences, while brands enjoy increased visibility and engagement opportunities.

TipTip’s matching capabilities allow brands to narrow down options based on specific criteria, leveraging technology to analyse their needs effectively. This ensures brands find the perfect fit for their objectives, driving meaningful connections and maximising impact.

In essence, TipTip stands as a trailblazer in Indonesia’s creative economy, bridging the gap between creators, communities, and brands with unparalleled efficiency and innovation. Whether redefining event experiences or fostering authentic connections, TipTip remains dedicated to empowering the creative ecosystem and driving sustainable growth.

TipTip takes the stage to dazzle with groundbreaking insights at Echelon X

Armed with his expertise as the Group CEO and Founder of TipTip, Albert Lucius will be participating as a panellist for the upcoming Echelon X — Echelon Asia Summit’s 10th-anniversary event happening on 15-16th May 2024 at the Singapore EXPO Hall 2. Echelon X aims to supercharge its flagship programs, tailored to the evolving needs of the next generation of tech leaders.

Together with Theresa Tjandrawinata, Senior Business Development Manager at e27, Lucius will be sharing insights on the topic “Why Does Tech Matter in Disrupting the Creative Industry in SEA/Indo?” Ecosystem stakeholders and other interested participants can also speak with him and the rest of the team during the networking segments of the conference proper.

Also read: ADA unveils AI CoPilots to revolutionise marketing and commerce for global enterprises

TipTip is one of the many exciting industry leaders from across the Southeast Asian region who will be joining us for Echelon X. Joining them are other key leaders, visionary entrepreneurs, and groundbreaking startups from all corners of the region who will be gathering together for two packed days. Echelon X will feature dedicated content stages, exhibitions, panel discussions, and more — all to support and empower the tech startup ecosystem with actionable insights through a series of knowledge-sharing activities.

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

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

The post Transforming the creative economy and entertainment industry with TipTip appeared first on e27.