Elevarm, an Indonesian agritech startup that aims to enhance the yield and income of smallholder horticulture farmers throughout Indonesia, has raised US$4.25 million in pre-Series A financing led by Intudo. Existing investors Insignia Ventures Partners and 500 Global participated.

Founded in 2022, Elevarm specialises in horticulture production and the provision of “high-quality” agricultural inputs, including superior seeds, bio-based fertilisers, and environmentally friendly pest control solutions. A key component of its operations is its in-house research and development (R&D) division, which creates innovative and sustainable agricultural inputs that improve soil health, promote biodiversity and increase crop resilience.

Also Read: The age of the super farmer: How technology is enabling the average farmer

Its seedlings are produced in advanced greenhouses, ensuring stronger and healthier plants for improved and more consistent harvests.

Elevarm employs large-scale farming production standard operation procedures (SOPs) that cover all critical stages of cultivation, from land preparation to harvesting. Its mobile app leverages AI to provide the on-ground team with real-time insights, data-driven recommendations, and precision farming techniques.

This facilitates the adoption of advanced cultivation methods like integrated pest management, efficient irrigation, and optimised planting strategies, aiming to maximise yields while minimising environmental impact.

Elevarm collaborates with over 30 partners, including Indonesia’s Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs, Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), IPB University, Padjadjaran University (UNPAD), Bank BJB, Amartha, Rabo Foundation, Reliance Finance, Transform (Unilever, UK FCDO, and EY), and other governmental and non-governmental organisations, as well as R&D labs.

The startup claims it currently supports over 15,000 farmers across West Java, Central Java, and Yogyakarta.

The funding round will help it expand its range of seedling varieties, offering farmers more options tailored to their specific land and objectives. Secondly, it will invest in the development of new agri-inputs through NextBio, focusing on bio-based fertilisers and pest control solutions to enhance soil health and crop resilience.

Thirdly, the firm plans to launch artificial intelligence (AI)-powered digital tools designed to provide real-time insights, optimise farming practices, automate tasks, and support smarter decision-making for farmers and the firm’s field teams.

Bayu Syerli, co-founder and CEO of Elevarm, stated that access to high-quality seedlings and fertilisers has been a long-standing challenge for smallholder farmers, hindering their ability to maximise yields and achieve profitable harvests. Elevarm is addressing this by making essential high-quality farming inputs accessible, thereby boosting productivity and improving farmer livelihoods.

Also Read: Unlocking agritech’s potential: Can Southeast Asia rise to the challenge?

Khailee Ng, Managing Partner at 500 Global, noted the growing innovation and investment in agriculture due to global food security priorities, highlighting Elevarm’s scalable approach of combining AI with traditional farming knowledge, which has the potential to strengthen food systems and promote sustainable farming globally.

Last May, Elevarm bagged US$2.6 million in a seed funding round led by Insignia Ventures Partners, with participation from 500 Global and eFishery founder and CEO Gibran Huzaifa.

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Okapi Technologies, a residential solar financing platform based in Malaysia, has closed an up to US$2 million debt facility arranged by Aquila, an IoT-powered sustainable finance company with operations across Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

The funding will accelerate Okapi’s expansion of solar energy adoption for homeowners and small businesses in Malaysia and the wider Southeast Asian region through innovative financial solutions.

This round comes over a year after Okapi announced its official launch in Malaysia with the closure of a new funding round led by impact investor The Radical Fund. Ninja Van co-founders Lai Chang Wen and Shaun Chong also joined the round.

Okapi’s flagship product, Okapi Solar, offers a “unique” underwriting model and a point-of-sale mobile application. This empowers solar installer-partners to provide zero upfront financing plans for up to ten years, effectively removing significant financial barriers for homeowners seeking to adopt solar power instantly.

Furthermore, Okapi recently launched Okapi Flow, a supply chain financing solution leveraging proprietary data to provide procurement, logistics, and inventory financing for its solar installer partners. This initiative aims to facilitate faster growth and improved access to financial products for small businesses within the solar sector.

Also Read: The Radical Fund, Ninja Van co-founders invest in Malaysian solar financing startup Okapi

To date, the startup has financed over 200 solar power systems and boasts a network of 50 installer partners across Malaysia, the Philippines, and Indonesia.

Lai Zhern Yung, CEO and co-founder of Okapi, stated: “Despite significant cost reductions in small-scale solar installations over the past decade, high upfront investment requirements and supply chain inefficiencies still hinder widespread adoption in Southeast Asia. Aquila’s strong collaboration and alignment with our vision will be invaluable as we continue to bridge the financing gap and accelerate the green transition in the region.”

Stefano Pellegrino, CEO of Aquila, commented: “Okapi’s business model—enabling EPC contractors to offer a leasing model for solar installations—is fuelling rapid growth. Since their expansion depends on their ability to finance EPCs, this partnership aligns perfectly with our financing strategy. Their focused approach to climate technology also enhances credit assessment efficiency, while API integration with solar installation data provides us with confidence in the value of deployed assets.”

The timing of this funding round is strategic, as electricity tariffs in Okapi’s home market of Malaysia are set to rise in the second half of the year. This, coupled with the National Policy on Climate Change 2.0, highlights the Malaysian government’s commitment to a more sustainable low-carbon economy.

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Not long ago, making money on the Moon sounded like something straight out of a sci-fi novel. Today, it’s a legitimate business plan. Nations, private companies, and investors are racing to stake their claim in what could be the next trillion-dollar economy.

The Moon isn’t just a scientific playground—it’s a resource-rich frontier that could transform industries on Earth. Lunar mining, energy production, and infrastructure development are no longer theoretical; they’re actively in progress. But where exactly is the money? Let’s break it down.

The Lunar goldrush: How the Moon is becoming the next billion-dollar market

For centuries, gold rushes have shaped economies. From California to the Klondike, fortunes were made in the pursuit of rare resources. Now, the same dynamic is unfolding in space, with the Moon emerging as the next big economic frontier.

Why the Moon? Resources that could change the game

The Moon is packed with valuable resources that could reshape global industries. With companies and governments pouring billions into lunar exploration, we’re on the verge of an economic shift.

• Helium-3: The future of clean energy
  One of the Moon’s most sought-after resources is Helium-3, a rare isotope that could revolutionise fusion energy. Unlike nuclear fission, which produces radioactive waste, Helium-3 fusion offers a cleaner, more efficient power source. Experts estimate that just a few tons of Helium-3 could power entire cities for years. Countries like China and the US are already launching missions to assess its extraction potential.

• Water ice: The gateway to deep space
  Water ice, discovered in permanently shadowed lunar craters, could be the Moon’s most valuable asset. Why? Because water can be split into hydrogen and oxygen, creating rocket fuel. This means the Moon could serve as a refuelling station for deep-space missions, drastically reducing the cost of Mars exploration and beyond. NASA’s Artemis program and private companies like Astrobotic are actively developing technologies to extract and store lunar water.

Also Read: JAXA: Singapore’s space BFF and the coolest agency you’re sleeping on

• Rare Earth metals: A game changer for tech
  Smartphones, batteries, and electric vehicles all rely on rare earth metals like neodymium and europium. Right now, China dominates global production, but the Moon could offer an alternative supply chain. If lunar mining proves viable, it could disrupt global markets and drive down costs for high-tech products.

Who’s investing? The companies and countries leading the charge

Governments and private companies are moving fast to secure their place in the lunar economy.

• NASA’s Artemis Accords have brought together countries like Japan, Australia, and the UK to create a framework for lunar mining.
• China’s Chang’e missions are mapping lunar resources and planning a permanent Moon base by the 2030s.
• Private companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and ispace are developing commercial lunar landers and mining technology to tap into Moon-based resources.
• Southeast Asia’s growing space sector is eyeing lunar collaboration, with partnerships like Thailand’s involvement in China’s Chang’e 7 mission and new initiatives being discussed at GSTCE 2025​.

GSTCE 2025: Where the Lunar economy is taking centre stage

The Global Space Technology Convention & Exhibition (GSTCE) 2025 highlighted how space is no longer just about national programs, it’s now an engine for global economic growth. With over 1,200 delegates from 45 countries, GSTCE 2025 showcased how businesses, investors, and governments can leverage space technologies for commercial opportunities. Discussions will include lunar resource extraction, space mining laws, and the commercial viability of Moon-based operations​.

What’s next?

The lunar gold rush is just beginning. With billion-dollar investments already in motion, the next decade will determine whether the Moon becomes the next great economic powerhouse. As technology advances and infrastructure develops, the question is no longer if we can profit from the Moon…but how soon.

And if history has taught us anything, those who stake their claims early often reap the biggest rewards.

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The modern business leader is often portrayed as an unshakeable force of panache and productivity; peek behind this veneer, however, and you’ll likely come across far too many sleepless nights and scarily unsustainable stress levels. Business leaders must prioritise wellbeing and fitness to keep everything ticking along nicely — hearts included.  

The corporate balancing act

Running a business is not unlike juggling flaming torches — exciting, perilous at times, and certainly not something you should attempt to do when half-asleep. Still, many leaders keep tossing those metaphorical torches without pausing to consider what happens when exhaustion turns their increasingly flaky grip into a liability.

The body and mind underpin everything we do. When we’re running on fumes, creativity plummets, decision-making falters, and stress balloons into a vicious cycle of struggle, crash and repeat. Burnout is not just a buzzword; it’s a business killer. A leader’s health, both mental and physical, ripples through the organisation, setting the tone for everything from morale to innovation and, of course, productivity.

Fitness is not just for gym junkies

If the phrase ‘fitness program’ makes you think of spandex-clad aerobics instructors yelling ‘Feel the burn!’ you’re not alone. Thankfully, though, fitness doesn’t demand Lycra, and it’s not about chasing some elusive six-pack. For business leaders, it’s about sustaining the stamina to endure high-pressure environments and showing up as your best self — not just for your team, but for yourself, and your bottom line.

Physical activity supercharges the brain. Want sharper focus? Exercise. Hoping for better sleep? Move your body. Struggling with chronic stress? Get your heart rate up. There’s a reason so many successful entrepreneurs swear by their morning runs or afternoon gym sessions: it’s not vanity; it’s strategy.

And let’s face it, the metaphor of a ‘well-oiled machine’ has been overused to the point of rusting, but the sentiment holds. Your body is your primary tool for navigating the demands of leadership. Ignore it, and it’ll let you down, and all-too-often at the worst possible moments.

Also Read: 4 reasons why mental fitness is vital to startup success

The ripple effect of wellbeing

When a leader prioritises their health, the benefits cascade through the entire organisation; it’s like the corporate version of putting your oxygen mask on first. Employees tend to take cues from the top, and a boss that actively values their wellbeing inspires others to do the same. Leaders who model balanced habits — whether that’s hitting the gym or making time for mindfulness — send a powerful message: wellness isn’t some flashy executive luxury; it’s a necessity.

The benefits aren’t just anecdotal, either. Research consistently shows that employees in organisations with a strong focus on health report higher job satisfaction, reduced absenteeism, and better overall performance. You can’t buy loyalty with a free gym membership, but couple it with a culture that genuinely supports health? Now you’re onto something.

Stress: The elephant in the boardroom

As deadlines loom, targets press down, and the stakes can feel impossibly high, it can be tempting to brush off stress as part of the job description. Yet, chronic stress isn’t a badge of honour; it’s a slow poison. 

Stress manifests both physically and emotionally. Beyond the yawns, the disrupted sleep, and elevated blood pressure can leave you feeling like you’ve been hit by the proverbial freight train; with clouded judgment, making even minor decisions can feel overwhelming. The irony is palpable: the very drive to excel often sabotages the capacity to think clearly and act effectively.

Small steps, big gains

Turning the tide doesn’t require a Herculean effort; you don’t need to morph into a kale smoothie-drinking triathlete overnight. Start small — a 20-minute walk during lunch, replacing your third coffee with herbal tea, or setting a strict no-email rule after 9 pm.

Even better, integrate movement into your day. Take walking meetings (yes, they’re a thing). Use a standing desk. Stretch between calls. Tiny habits can add up faster than you’d expect, boosting energy levels and clearing mental fog — no dramatic overhaul in sight.

Arguably the most important wellness shift is to never underestimate the power of sleep; prioritising sleep is one of the most productive things you can do for yourself and your business.

Also Read: How to foster mental wellness in the workplace and boost performance

Food as medicine

One leader who has turned the intersection of health and leadership into an art form is Rina Ahluwalia — the visionary behind two health brands, The Primal and GoCarnivore, and The Primal Shop producing health products, including 100 per cent natural Whipped Tallow Balm, rewriting the rules of a healthy lifestyle. Drawing from her expertise in Low-Carb, Keto, and Carnivore diets, Rina has crafted a program, known as The Primal Diet, a low-carb animal-based diet that helps individuals reverse chronic illness by focusing on root-cause healing and harnessing the healing power of food.

This approach isn’t just about eliminating unnecessary foods; it’s a complete paradigm shift. By focusing on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods, Rina’s method helps people reclaim their vitality; her clients not only report significant improvements in their physical health but also newfound mental clarity and resilience. 

The success of Rina’s brand lies in its simplicity and scientific rigour; her work has shown that what we eat doesn’t just fuel our bodies but also shapes our lives. Leaders who adopt such philosophies often find that their improved health translates directly into sharper decision-making, greater energy, and a renewed sense of purpose.

The financial case for fitness

For the hard-to-win-over skeptics, let’s talk numbers, because there’s no denying it — poor health is expensive. The cost of absenteeism, presenteeism (showing up but not functioning effectively), and healthcare expenditures is staggering; according to various studies, the return on investment for corporate wellness programs can range from US$1.50 to US$3 for every dollar spent.

And it isn’t even just about dollars and cents. Healthier leaders are better equipped to navigate crises, spot opportunities, and lead with empathy; they’re also less likely to burn out, thus reducing the risk of costly leadership turnovers. It’s not rocket science; it’s common sense.

Redefining success

Success doesn’t have to come at the expense of your health, in fact, the two are deeply intertwined. The most effective leaders aren’t those who grind themselves into the ground; they’re the ones who recognise that true achievement comes from a place of balance.

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In the expansive realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI), two prominent paradigms have taken centre stage: Generative AI and Operational AI, often known as Applied AI. While both possess their unique strengths, it is becoming increasingly evident that Operational AI is the driving force catalysing transformative change in today’s dynamic business landscape.

This article explores the nuances differentiating the two and elucidates why Operational AI stands as the unequivocal game-changer of our times.

Deciphering Generative AI

Generative AI, equipped with its profound deep learning algorithms, has undeniably made remarkable strides across various domains. Renowned for its capability to craft content, spanning images, text, and even music, akin to human-generated creations, Generative AI is exemplified by technologies such as OpenAI’s GPT-3, adept at generating human-like text, and DALL-E, which crafts images based on textual descriptions.

Generative AI has flexed its muscles across several domains, showcasing strengths that have left an indelible mark:

• Creative content generation: Demonstrating the remarkable ability to produce highly creative and novel content, from intricate artwork to captivating literature, often with astonishing levels of realism.
• Personalisation: Tailoring content to individual preferences, thereby delivering an engaging, personalised user experience that resonates with a diverse audience.
• Innovation catalyst: By automating ideation processes, Generative AI has the potential to ignite new ideas and concepts, stimulating innovation across industries.

Also Read: Rise of generative AI in search: Exploring opportunities for APAC brands

Operational AI: The strategic force

Operational AI, also recognised as Applied AI, follows a different trajectory. Instead of generating creative content, it pivots its focus towards streamlining and elevating business operations through the potent combination of automation and data-driven decision-making.

The reasons behind the ascendancy of Operational AI are compelling:

•  Concrete business impact: Operational AI stands as a tangible force capable of delivering concrete, measurable results. It elevates operational efficiency, slashes costs, and expedites decision-making, with businesses witnessing a direct impact on their financial bottom line—a compelling allure for investment.
• Automation of repetitive tasks: Proficient in automating routine, time-consuming tasks, Operational AI encompasses a wide spectrum, from data entry to complex manufacturing processes. This liberation of human resources from mundane tasks empowers businesses to channel talent into more strategic endeavours.
• Data-powered decision-making: Operational AI harnesses the prowess of data analytics to furnish insights pivotal for critical decision-making. Whether optimising supply chain logistics or predicting consumer preferences, Operational AI equips businesses with data-backed acumen.
• Enhanced customer experiences: Operational AI augments customer experiences by enabling chatbots and virtual assistants to offer real-time support. This translates into faster response times, round-the-clock availability, and ultimately, higher levels of customer satisfaction.
• Security and compliance vigilance: In the realm of security and compliance, Operational AI serves as a vigilant sentry. It continuously monitors and detects security threats and compliance infractions in real time, consequently mitigating risks and ensuring adherence to regulatory standards.
• Scalability: The scalability factor of Operational AI is a testament to its enduring relevance and value. It seamlessly adapts to the evolving needs of businesses as they burgeon, promising long-term utility.

Also Read: Navigating the future of marketing with AI technology at Flux Series

Operational AI’s supremacy

Operational AI’s pragmatic, results-oriented approach aligns seamlessly with the exigencies of contemporary businesses:

• Immediate Return on Investment (ROI): Operational AI often offers a swifter ROI compared to Generative AI. Cost savings and efficiency gains materialise within a relatively short time frame, making a compelling case for its adoption.
• Alignment with business goals: Operational AI is meticulously designed to address specific business challenges and objectives. It serves as an unwavering ally in furthering core operations and strategic goals, positioning itself as an indispensable asset for businesses.
• Versatility: The applications of Operational AI transcend industry boundaries, spanning domains as diverse as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. Its versatility underscores its worth as a versatile tool adaptable to a plethora of sectors.
• Real-world impact: Operational AI leaves an indelible imprint across a spectrum of industries. In healthcare, it streamlines patient data analysis and diagnosis, ushering in improved healthcare outcomes. In finance, it serves as a sentinel, detecting fraudulent transactions and safeguarding the interests of businesses and consumers alike.
• Future-proofing: As businesses pivot toward data-centric models, Operational AI emerges as the cornerstone for navigating a digitalised world. It empowers businesses to navigate shifting consumer preferences, dynamic market landscapes, and evolving regulatory environments, thus future-proofing their operations.

While Generative AI indeed commands admiration and awe for its creative prowess, Operational AI, with its practical, result-centric approach, stands as the harbinger of transformative real-world change. It empowers businesses to operate with greater efficiency, make well-informed decisions, and provide customers with enhanced experiences.

As we cast our gaze toward the horizon, the path forward becomes evident — Operational AI will continue to play an instrumental role in reshaping industries, fueling innovation, and ensuring that businesses maintain their competitive edge in an ever-evolving landscape.

In the dynamic realm of AI, it’s not merely about creativity; it’s about tangible outcomes, and Operational AI stands tall as the vanguard leading this charge.

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This article was first published on September 13, 2023

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