The world today is locked in an Artificial Intelligence (AI) race, and Singapore is working to leverage its position as a tech hub in the Asia-Pacific to be a leader in this technology. For one, over SG$20 million (US$14.8 million) will be allocated in the next three years to increase the number of SG Digital Scholarships and overseas internships in AI roles.

The government has also pledged to invest up to SG$500 million (US$370 million) to secure high-performance computing (HPC) resources for AI innovation and capability building. These initiatives are just two examples of how the country is aiming to establish itself as a critical player in the global tech landscape.

However, meeting the demands of AI workloads will require accelerated IT and high-performance computing (HPC) architectures. That is because power consumption and heat generation from AI chips are significantly higher than conventional IT equipment. For data centres that power AI applications, traditional cooling technologies might not have the capabilities to address these workloads.

Meanwhile, the power is subject to voltage sags, spikes, and complete failure during transmission and distribution, which therefore may interrupt computer operations, cause data loss, and damage equipment. As we are gearing towards AI compute age, knowing what cooling and power methodology and solution is key to ensure we keep the AI compute operating at their optimum performance without degradation or disruption.

Singapore’s unique challenge

It is a pivotal moment for the collective effort to find solutions that will shape Singapore’s future. The demands for AI coincide with rising power challenges and decarbonisation requirements.

For instance, Singapore’s heavy reliance on natural gas for electricity — approximately 95 per cent of its energy supply — poses a barrier to the integration of renewable energy sources. This dependence limits the ability to diversify energy portfolios and reduce carbon footprints effectively.

Compounding this issue are Singapore’s limited land area and high population density, which present obstacles for large-scale renewable energy projects. With little room for expansion, finding solutions that balance energy needs with sustainability goals becomes increasingly complex.

Unlike many of its regional peers, who also have high population densities, Singapore also has to contend with limited land area. That means limited space for data centres that are pivotal to AI workloads, as there is no shortage of competing uses for land. Singapore also has to grapple with limited freshwater resources.

Also Read: GenAI’s twisted impact on the creative world: Navigating chaos to find new order

These unique circumstances imply that the country’s policymakers have had to be cautious about how to encourage data centre growth. The recent lifting of its moratorium on new data centres is proof of the selectiveness needed for the realities facing Singapore. Simply put, the country needs more data centres to continue to support technology innovations but not at the cost of resource efficiency.

Rethinking infrastructure and cooling methods

These challenges put the industry at an inflexion point. In regard to thermal management, for instance, there will need to be more deployments of liquid cooling solutions, as air-cooling technologies alone cannot efficiently support higher-density workloads. With the demands of the digital space set to escalate, it is crucial for data centres to adapt continuously, leveraging innovative solutions and operational efficiencies to meet the future head-on.

Since standard cooling systems cannot handle the heat created by GPUs based on the latest demands for AI computing, most installations will necessitate the introduction of the newest liquid-cooling technologies into the data centre and eventually enterprise server rooms. In the near future, rack densities exceeding 100 kW per rack will become widespread and on a massive scale, necessitating significant capacity improvements throughout the entire power train, from the grid to the chips in each rack.

Significant investments are required to modernise the infrastructure required to power and cool AI systems. Incorporating liquid cooling technology into uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems is also essential for maintaining a steady power supply, which is necessary for coolant distribution’s mechanical demands. The ideal temperatures for facilities and equipment can be maintained by dependable cooling systems.

In terms of energy, there are emerging bring-your-own-power (BYOP) options to meet growing data centre demands. The role of the uninterrupted power supply (UPS), for example, can transform into a dynamic energy resource that creates an “always on” environment. Till now, data centres have largely been purely electricity consumers.

However, with recent advancements, future data centres could be a stabilising element to the local grid. The ability to shift loads, to start fuel cell systems, and to share energy from large battery energy storage (BESS) will also change how data centres move from consumers to partners in stabilising the future grid.

Also Read: Embracing AI in Southeast Asia: The strategy for avoiding cost overruns

Partnerships within the industry can also facilitate efforts to address these challenges. For instance, Vertiv is collaborating with NVIDIA to offer expertise in critical power and cooling infrastructure with advanced computing capabilities. This provides a comprehensive solution that includes high-performance power and cooling technologies to address  the demands of AI applications, including high-density heat removal and energy efficiency.

Becoming future ready

With AI adoption critical to continuous innovation, the need for robust, AI-ready infrastructure solutions will be necessary. This includes pre-engineered systems that can be deployed up to twice as fast as traditional setups, allowing businesses to respond swiftly to market changes and technological advancements.

Despite significant challenges, Singapore has all the potential to become an AI hub. That will, however, depend on addressing sustainability concerns, leveraging forward-looking infrastructure, and prioritising continuous learning. The good news is that the country already has the potential to realise these imperatives. Through its continued commitment to resilience and a focus on innovation and sustainability, Singapore can realise its vision and set a precedent for others in the region and beyond.

—

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 AI age is changing the data centre industry – Here’s how Singapore can pivot appeared first on e27.

The Current AI wave defines itself as a transformative era impacting all industries and everyday applications. Drawing parallels with my experiences navigating previous tech waves, such as mobile, where being mobile-ready was imperative for survival, a similar story emerges for the current AI wave. 

The question I want to pose here is not just about the disruption AI itself brings, but more crucially, how it distinguishes itself from the past mobile wave, what are the most important aspects of relearning and how Gen AI will help reshape human connections and ease our digital burnout.

Riding the AI wave

In 2009, I developed one of the first geolocation mobile apps, aiming to enhance connections by connecting strangers based on shared interests. Initially viewed as a novelty, by 2024, mobile apps had become the primary medium for connecting and engaging with others. While it’s now easier to connect with like-minded individuals, we’re undeniably losing touch with the simplicity of genuine conversations with strangers.

Amidst the AI wave, we face a familiar dichotomy: the promise of deeper, more meaningful connections juxtaposed with the risk of increased social isolation due to advanced algorithms introduced by Gen AI on social media platforms. Addressing this challenge requires AI applications to prioritise genuine connections while tackling societal fragmentation through thoughtful design and implementation.

The Gen AI deal

The mobile era has undeniably brought remarkable progress, extending access to information and connection even to remote populations in Africa. However, it has also introduced significant challenges. Despite this, I am confident that Gen AI has the potential to alleviate these issues and drive transformative change.

Here are key principles to consider when designing any social system:

Peak scrolling, swiping, and zoomification

My life’s work has focused on leveraging technology to create more meaningful human connections within communities. Through GST, I organised 135 global gatherings using only WhatsApp chat groups, email, and event link RSVPs to bring people together worldwide.

However, with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent ‘Zoomification’ era, we now face a saturation point in technology characterised by decision fatigue and digital overwhelm.

Also Read: AI assistant or replacement? A PR pro’s take on using ChatGPT

While we have the potential to connect with anyone across the planet, the challenge lies not just in accumulating connections but in navigating this abundance to cultivate meaningful engagements. A 2020 Pew Research Center study revealed that almost half of Americans believe dating has become more difficult in the past decade, with users of dating sites or apps reporting frustration over endless swiping, scrolling, and mundane text conversations without finding meaningful connections.

AI brings simplification

Gen AI provides a straightforward solution for reducing decision fatigue and endless scrolling and swiping. Its promise lies in streamlining our digital lives, aiding in data curation, and minimising friction points. By integrating intelligence into daily activities, Gen AI has the potential to facilitate more nuanced connections tailored to individual circumstances, personal values, missions, and goals.

Unlike mobile apps with numerous screens and buttons, Gen AI offers a simple response to a single prompt question, such as ‘Who should I talk with today?’ by incorporating all learned parameters for a personalised recommendation.

AI functions like a super-creative brain

At its core, AI’s effectiveness hinges on quality data — the fuel that powers its capabilities. However, foundational models like GPT4, Gemini, and Claude rely on the same internet data, potentially leading to similar responses. The key lies in obtaining the best data possible. While tech giants possess abundant information about individuals, it’s scattered across various online platforms, hindering its usefulness for Gen AI apps.

However, Gen AI has the potential to bridge this gap by learning from user interactions and enabling matches based on nuanced personality traits. Yet, comprehensive data on people’s character and personalities remains scarce. This highlights the critical role of data in AI. As AI continues to drive change, it prompts anyone wanting to create a Gen AI app to reevaluate data flows and create a magical, creative Gen-AI experience with meaningful data.

Make magic with Gen AI

AI is not new; it is actually very old, but the reason that we got a breakthrough with chatGPT and Gen AI is not the tech itself but the magical experience it has created for users. One interesting approach to designing Gen AI-driven products is through ‘frankersteining’ — coming up with a magical Gen AI experience and merging it with established mobile user dynamics with a proven track record. For instance, while point systems or badges have been successful in many social products, envisioning Gen AI magic that could enhance these badges opens up a world of possibilities.

Personalised connections for problem-solving

Now, using these principles, I launched Agent-A to create communities with Gen AI. Our focus is on creating personalised matches between professionals and forming communities, starting in South Asia and Southeast Asia, that align with individuals’ personalities and skills.

Agent-A acts as a personal AI matchmaker, utilising advanced Gen AI frameworks to connect professionals facing similar industry challenges. Moreover, it breaks language barriers, understanding over 100 languages for accurate matches across cultures.

Also Read: What will the third-wave of artificial intelligence look like?

As we accumulate data, Agent-A will create collective matches based on skills, personality traits, and shared problem-solving interests. It automatically connects individuals, facilitates real-life meetings, and executes events or meetups without the need for organisers. This represents the future of collaborative problem-solving, revolutionising how people come together to tackle challenges.

Gen AI everywhere 

Traditional mobile apps and information systems pale in comparison to the capabilities of Generative AI. Large Language Models (LLMs) excel at inferring responses based on prompts and probabilities. However, as AI continues to evolve, it is poised to revolutionise every aspect of our lives by achieving higher levels of reasoning and self-awareness.

In the near future, AI will be ubiquitous and seamlessly integrated into every information system and hardware device. Data will flow effortlessly between these systems, serving as AI’s lifeblood to continuously learn and enhance response accuracy.

AI will evolve into a highly dynamic entity, akin to biological systems, capable of adaptation and learning. Individuals will train their personal AI to understand preferences better and shield against persuasive AI influencing decision-making processes.

Understanding our future necessitates viewing human existence as a collective of information processing systems, much like cells receiving signals, integrating information, and coordinating responses. Think of a future where you will prompt, and it will create the most magical result and, in probability, the best suggestion ever made at the moment in 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

This article was first published on March 21, 2024

The post From peak scrolling to personalised communities: The Gen AI solution appeared first on e27.

Elon Musk may hate it, but there is no doubt that hybrid and remote work is here to stay for Southeast Asian (SEA) teams. Research by McKinsey has shown that SEA workers prefer a hybrid mixture of on-site and remote work setups. Employees are overwhelmingly looking for flexibility and work-life balance, but at the same time, maintaining a strong connection to their organisation and colleagues. However, many are finding this is not always the case.

Despite the surge in usage of communication and collaboration tools during the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses are failing to effectively communicate their hybrid work policies to their teams. Workers are left feeling adrift by their managers, unsure about when and where they are expected to work, leading to confusion and decreased productivity. 

Between hybrid and remote teams, problems of communication can be a source of endless frustration for employees and managers. The classic phrase of the pandemic ‘you’re on mute’ still regularly makes an appearance on many video calls.

Even four years after the beginning of the pandemic, businesses across the world still struggle to maintain clear and consistent communication across dispersed teams and time zones. 

Zooming in: Navigating hybrid hurdles in SEA work culture

Collaborating solely remotely can also create friction between team members. The tone is much harder to gauge from the written text than it is from verbal communication, which can lead to many miscommunications. People may come across as more direct and brusque on a messenger platform, and things like cultural nuances and non-verbal cues are easily lost in a long stream of text. 

Meanwhile, one of the biggest hybrid pain points for business leaders is the loss of the so-called ‘water cooler’ moments. These are the informal office interactions that help foster relationships and collaboration, as well as spark occasional inspiration.

Also Read: Connecting clouds in SEA: How to ensure interoperability in the hybrid and multi-cloud context

Losing these opportunities to connect easily with your colleagues is detrimental to the critical tasks of teamwork and brainstorming. If hybrid organisations fail to build these collaborative environments, they will find themselves with reduced engagement, strained knowledge sharing, and difficulty building rapport.

It is also worth bearing in mind that while SEA markets may be close geographically, there are some significant disparities between internet and mobile data speeds. Singapore boasts the fastest mobile and internet speeds at 88.91 Mbps and 277.57 Mbps, respectively. Its neighbour, Indonesia, however, lags with 25.37 Mbps in mobile speeds and 29.43 Mbps in internet speeds.

Charting your tech journey through hybrid hurdles

Navigating these hybrid work challenges in SEA can be a headache for business leaders, but technology is, thankfully, making the process easier. Drawing up a technology roadmap means choosing the right communication platforms for various needs, whether that’s video conferencing, instant messaging, project management tools and full-scale cloud enterprise resource planning (ERP) platforms.

Collaboration is more than just teams talking to each other. It is about real-time collaboration, document sharing and secure accessibility across devices. These are the mechanisms that allow teams to work together effectively, meet deadlines and create business success.

Organisations should be open about their expectations from employees in a hybrid environment. This requires fostering open communication and information-sharing within the organisation. Leaders should be transparent about their business expectations and plans through regular team meetings, knowledge-sharing sessions and feedback forums.

They should also invest and advocate for training employees on effective communication skills in a hybrid environment. This includes mastering technology tools, practising active listening, and building virtual relationships.

Unified communication tools for a mobile workforce

Once these cultural steps are in place, then leaders and IT procurement officers can examine their technology stack. For the modern workplace, unified communications-as-a-service (UCaaS) is increasingly used to manage large, disparate teams across locations and markets.

Also Read: Is hybrid work arrangement the future of work?

UCaaS are end-to-end solutions that include integrated video conferencing, instant messaging and online collaborations for project management. These bring together the holy trinity of collaboration: rapid response, clear communication and room to create into one platform. Optimised for smartphone-first and mobile workforces, UCaaS helps connect people remotely, wherever they are. 

Due to the global pull encouraging more workers back to the office, many UCaaS solutions now come with features such as interactive meetings. Hybrid teams can re-create a fully in-office experience with features like polls, whiteboards, and breakout rooms for dynamic and engaging virtual meetings.

Harnessing UCaaS for enhanced team communication and productivity

UCaaS project management tools also help facilitate task assignments, progress tracking, and team communication within a centralised platform. Seamless collaboration on documents and projects in real-time is now possible through file-sharing and tracking.

UCaaS and collaboration technology are constantly innovating. Simple virtual meetings are now being infused with everything from full collaboration tools to transcription and even artificial intelligence. Leaders who consider the full spectrum of collaboration technology, even down to something as simple as file-sharing, will be the ones reaping the most benefits from their teams, regardless of whether they are in the office or at the beach. 

—

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: Parabol via Unsplash

This article was first published on May 7, 2024

The post Charting a clear course: Building effective communication in SEA’s hybrid work era appeared first on e27.

Governments around the world often depend on bonds to fund infrastructure and services, but the path for citizens to invest in these securities has historically been fraught with barriers. Libeara, a fintech platform founded by former banking executive Aaron Gwak, aims to change this by democratising access to government bonds and fostering a culture of savings.

“At its core, our goal is to make eligible investments more accessible,” says Gwak, who previously spent over 13 years at Standard Chartered Bank overseeing debt origination in ASEAN. “Accessibility is not just about whether you can access something—it’s about eligibility. Do you know what you’re buying, and should you be buying it?”

Libeara’s platform enables governments to issue bonds directly to citizens in low denominations, eliminating unnecessary intermediaries. This approach not only stabilises government funding but also provides citizens with a secure and straightforward investment option.

The platform features bank-grade security, comprehensive compliance controls, and a seamless user experience across web and mobile applications.

Gwak highlights the rationale behind this innovation: “Government bonds are almost your birthright. You live in a country, earn and use its currency. Why shouldn’t you be able to lend money directly to your government instead of depositing it in a bank that lends it on your behalf?”

Also Read: The next fintech innovation will be a customer-led phenomenon

This philosophy underpins Libeara’s mission. Traditionally, investing in government bonds has been cumbersome, requiring significant thresholds that exclude retail investors.

“The costs of KYC and regulatory compliance often make it infeasible for securities companies to cater to small investments,” Gwak explains. Libeara seeks to address this by lowering these barriers, allowing even modest investors to participate.

Driving change with tech

Libeara’s tech extends beyond direct bond purchases. The platform also supports tokenised government bond funds, offering investors an alternative route to participate in this market. In collaboration with a licensed fund manager in Singapore, Libeara enables customers to buy tokenised fund securities.

“The biggest advantage of token technology is twofold,” says Gwak. “First, it reduces the need for intermediaries. Second, it enhances mobility. Tokens are not just records of investments; they can also be utilised for other purposes, enabling greater flexibility.”

By tokenising investments, Libeara aligns with broader trends in the financial sector. Gwak recalls the earlier days of manual processes in banking and sees tokenisation as the natural evolution of securities management: “Behavioural changes will follow technological advancements. As systems articulate investment opportunities more clearly, adoption will grow organically.”

Libeara’s initial milestones include proof-of-concept projects in Singapore, the Philippines, and Hong Kong.

“In 2021, we realised this was a venture-class problem,” Gwak reflects. “Our technological, legal, and securities expertise allowed us to articulate a clear vision, which ultimately led to Libeara’s creation.”

Also Read: How the global growth of fintech defies age and gender

These early projects demonstrated the platform’s potential to streamline access to government bonds, even across borders. “For instance, if you’re in Singapore and want to invest in Indonesian government bonds, the process is often complicated,” Gwak notes. Libeara simplifies such transactions, providing a direct pathway for retail investors.

The path ahead

Despite its promise, Libeara faces the challenge of educating consumers about digital assets and tokenised securities. Gwak acknowledges that societal adoption of new technologies requires time and effort. “Education is crucial, but so is demonstrating the practical benefits. Life becomes easier for individual investors when technology reduces complexity,” he says.

Regulators also play a pivotal role. Drawing parallels to the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s approach to consumer protection, Gwak emphasises the importance of informed investment decisions: “It is not just about whether you can buy something; the first question should always be whether you should buy it and if you understand it.”

Libeara’s broader mission is to bridge gaps in financial inclusion. By enabling governments to issue bonds directly to citizens—both domestically and abroad—the platform fosters a deeper connection between individuals and public finance.

“Government bonds are securities that everyone should be able to own, but access and eligibility have historically been mismatched,” Gwak asserts. “We are working with governments to change that dynamic, ensuring citizens can invest in their nation’s future with ease.”

As Libeara continues to expand its footprint, its focus remains on empowering individuals through accessible, secure, and innovative investment solutions. “This is not just about technology; it’s about reshaping the way we think about savings and investment. The trajectory is clear, and we’re excited to be part of this transformation,” says Gwak.

—

Image Credit: Libeara

The post Easing access to government bonds: Libeara’s vision for financial inclusion appeared first on e27.

The first step to having a successful business is having a deep comprehension of the market. In 2025, numerous trends such as AI, sustainability, remote work and health tech are disrupting industries and providing a plethora of possibilities for business people. Choosing what startup should I start depends on aligning your skills and passions with these evolving demands.

Trends are always shaped by technology changes, customer behaviour changes and new regulations. You can generate innovative business ideas, which address pressing issues and appeal to your target market or market segment by researching and clarifying your concepts. Subsequently, this will assist you in generating lasting solutions for currently relevant issues and in being adaptable to upcoming changes in the business world.

The article goes on to explain how you can formulate strategic innovative business ideas tailored to the trends of 2025, helping you build a relevant and future-proof startup.

Understanding market trends in 2025

Tracing market tendencies is the first part of being successful, so if you ask yourself what startup should I start in 2025, then this is the thing to focus on. The market landscape is rapidly changing and being able to predict these changes can enable you to better strategise your idea.

AI will continue transforming industries with innovative business ideas such as automation or personalised services, this will go hand in hand with the fact that treating the planet as a priority is no longer an option and consumers have started to value eco-friendly products over anything else as a result of the shift towards greener energy. According to NIQ’s latest sustainability study, 69% of global consumers say sustainability matters more to them now than it did two years ago, yet barriers like cost, accessibility, and unclear information hinder their ability to live more sustainably.

With workplaces in a remote setting becoming a standard, there will always be a need for better automation tools that increase productivity and enhance communication among team members. While during all of this, health tech solutions such as wearables and mental apps being at the forefront will start redefining what wellness looks like.

All of these changes have the common denominator of technology, as they allow for creating unique business ideas that aid in solving people’s day-to-day issues. Though consumers are shaping these changes too, for now, consumers are more inclined towards convenience, transparency and ethics when making a purchasing decision. Furthermore, the opportunities in compliance sectors are being intensified due to regulatory changes that are more focused on data privacy and environmental requirements.

Starting with valid research is very important when approaching a startup. One needs to comprehend their target audience, analyze existing competitors and verify their concept against actual customers. This is to ensure that you are not just trying to be part of a bandwagon but that you are solving real problems. By completing these tasks, you will not only mitigate risks but would also enhance your ability to create a robust business that is prepared for the future.

Evaluating your skills and interests

When thinking of a startup idea, it becomes crucial to ask yourself what business should I start? Identifying your abilities, interests, and expertise areas that your business idea encompasses becomes highly important. Research from CB Insights shows that five per cent of startups fail due to burnout/lack of passion, often because founders pursue ideas disconnected from their strengths or interests.

It requires a great deal of effort to be an entrepreneur, and the success of your business would largely hinge on how well those seamless skills match with the requirements of the target market. If you’re doing something that you love, then all the invincible frustrations will equally drive you to do better.

Also Read: Navigating the future of crypto: How can we truly tap into the blue ocean of altcoins as we step into 2025?

As you assess your hobbies and your skills, keep these important questions in mind about yourself:

• Which industries interest you the most? Check the industries where you have some experience or sectors in which you have some interest. It can be technology, health, sustainability, or any other thing that you are passionate about because passion can dramatically alter the outcomes of your startup.
• What are your competencies? Are you creative, good with technology or an excellent manager or leader? Pinpoint the specific attributes which you find make you one of a kind and analyse how this can be beneficial in solving problems or adding value in the area you want to specialise.
• Would you be able to embrace the new trends? Today’s market requires fresh ideas and concepts. Embrace new innovations so that new trends do not render your business concept redundant.

Successful startups often stem from founders who match their skills with the market’s demands. For example, Airbnb’s founders, with backgrounds in design and tech, leveraged their expertise to create a platform that revolutionised the hospitality industry. Similarly, companies like Tesla have thrived because their founders’ deep passion for innovation in clean energy matched a growing market need.

Top startup ideas based on 2025 market trends

2025 is sure to have some of the most avid business concepts that capture unique market trends. If you find yourself pondering the question, “What startup should I start?” then make sure to take a glance over these five incredible business ideas.

• AI-driven solutions

The new era of time-saving tools is ushering in an explosion of AI-centric automation, content generation and bespoke services-focused startups. And in 2025 these AI-based tools won’t just be cool, they will be an absolute necessity. Just imagine constructing software that would allow companies to save minutes in dealing with an unnecessarily complex interface.

• Sustainability and green technology

The worldwide shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly living principles has opened up incredible possibilities for startup businesses, such as providing new energy sources, environmentally friendly goods, and even carbon offset technologies. From solar-powered devices to zero-waste packaging, green startups are both lucrative and meaningful as consumers are more conscious about their environmental footprint and are willing to try what is on the market.

• Health and wellness

Though there is an influx of health and wellness tech now in the health sector, it isn’t going away anytime soon. AI health can ease the aging process by providing virtual as well as wearable tech that keeps track of health. As people become more health-conscious and invest in their wellness, there are many new startups every day that can better one’s life and help foster long-term loyalty.

• Remote work solutions

With remote work now the norm, there’s a huge demand for tools that enhance collaboration, productivity, and workforce management. Whether it’s a unique virtual office platform or a project management app, your startup could help businesses thrive in a decentralised world.

• Education technology

There is more to e-learning than schools, and that is what has made its development so captivating. The market now is rich with game-based learning, professional skills building, and specialised courses that have great potential. If education is an area of your interest, then the current trends bring great scope for innovative business ideas.

Starting a business based on these trends does not only enhance your ability to be more competitive since it will also guarantee that your startup remains up to date. Which of these concepts do you find intriguing? The most important aspect is undertaking the needed efforts and imagining what the future requires and delivering it.

Also Read: East Ventures: SEA can expect a significant surge in AI-first startups in 2025

Validating your startup idea

How do you tell the difference between a good and a terrible business idea? Well, I can tell that starting your own business is challenging but fun, but the question remains how can you forecast whether your idea will flourish? Anyone who has gone into the business knows that a crucial step to launching is validating your startup idea to mitigate loss and future complications. Here’s how you can do it.

• Conduct market research

When planning a safe start-up or a new business model, it is important to approach it through market analysis ensuring its relevance and competitiveness. Take advantage of tools like Google Trends or Statista. Carry out surveys and delve deeply into the discussions as a mean to understand the potential needs of your future consumers. Remember, understanding the market can help you decide what startup should I start.

• Identify your target audience

Who do you think will benefit after solving a problem? Start by describing your customer segments based on their demographics, behavioural patterns and pain points. Imagine your ideal customer and develop a buyer persona around them. It will be easy to come up with unique business ideas tailored to real-world needs.

• Test your idea with an MVP

An MVP is a version of your product that is enough to provide feedback and improve on your original model. It minimises the risk of making a huge monetary investment while getting feedback on innovative business ideas. Try building a landing page or creating a prototype of your enterprise. Once released, take note of audience reactions and adjust your plan as needed.

Planning for growth and sustainability

When creating a startup, there’s the need to plan for sustainability and growth which are some of the factors to guarantee success over the years. Look at how future-proofed your business will be by concentrating on scalability. This entails guaranteeing that all your processes, technology and team can meet higher demands without succumbing to wear and tear. Scalability really should be the cornerstone that remains foundational whether you are starting to explore your unique business ideas or deciding on what startup should I start.

Another area that is equally paramount in 2025 is raising funds. With the entrance of innovative business ideas, there are more alternatives available than ever before such as venture capital, bootstrapping, or crowdfunding. By crowdfunding, you’re able to eliminate the risk of ideas that don’t work for you while also getting money for the one that does.

Also Read: 2024: The year personalised learning became a reality

On the other hand venture capital connects you to experienced investors who will fund you while bootstrapping allows you to grow while maintaining control of your company. Follow a path that fits your vision.

And finally, be flexible. The tides are constantly changing, meaning what worked yesterday will not work tomorrow. Be conscious of the dynamic marketplace and customers’ preferences. Therefore, have data-based information on the consumers so that you can make changes to your offerings to ensure that you stay relevant.

Conclusion

In 2025, the best startup opportunities will align with emerging trends like AI, sustainability, health tech, and remote work solutions. By focusing on unique business ideas and exploring innovative business ideas that match your skills and market demands, you can create a future-proof venture. The key is to stay adaptable, validate your ideas, and plan for scalability. Remember, the right startup for you is one that not only leverages market trends but also fuels your passion and solves real-world problems.

—

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 What startup should I start based on market trends in 2025? appeared first on e27.