The startup has also won a fully-funded tech trip to Singapore, and will get an opportunity to visit the likes of Facebook, Google and Microsoft

SomJot, a mobile parking app that helps vehicle owners find parking spaces in Cambodia, has been selected as the winner of SmartStart Young Innovator Program Cycle 2, organised by mobile telecom operator Smart Axiata, at Impact Hub Phnom Penh.

The startup has also won a fully-funded “tech trip” to Singapore, and will get an opportunity to visit the likes of Facebook, Google and Microsoft.

“Congratulations to SomJot for making substantial progress in the last six months, once again raising the bar for SmartStart in terms of output quality. Their pitch made us all proud of the tremendous efforts put into the program. Such an initiative proves that the Kingdom’s startup ecosystem is growing and being stimulated by great talent — it is a positive sign for our shared vision of Cambodia’s sustained digital economy,” said Thomas Hundt, CEO of Smart Axiata.

The four other teams in the finals were: Homex, a mobile app that connects users with household needs to reliable technicians; Haystome, an online platform that connects tourists with local artists for a truly authentic experience; Malis, a digital solution facilitating appointments at beauty salons; and Tos Rean, an online platform matching tutors and students.

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All the five startups had received US$4,000 each and a six-month incubator programme with Impact Hub in June 2018.

Ny Chanpichmean from SomJot said: “My team and I have been working very hard to define our business model and develop our minimum viable product. Although we had to face many challenges in the last few months, we were grateful to have experienced mentors, Impact Hub and Smart, who guided us along the way. We look forward to build on this success as our digital product and service gains traction in Cambodia.”

Mélanie Mossard, Impact Hub Phnom Penh’s Director of Venture Support, said: “The quality and hard work on display in SmartStart Cycle 2 has been amazing. It has been great to see how these young university students have all responded to the advice and workshops during the incubation period. I really admire their commitment and desire to learn and get exposed to new networks and opportunities. We at Impact Hub can’t wait to see all the teams further develop their ideas and use our continuous support to guide them through their entrepreneurial journey.”

SmartStart is a 9-month programme by Smart and Impact Hub endorsed by the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, and Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport. The programme aims at enabling promising Cambodian university students to launch their digital business ideas. Shortlisted students undergo a hackathon, 5-day technopreneurship challenge, as well as intensive workshops to stand a chance to win US$4,000 cash and tailored support for six months with Impact Hub.

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