ADB Tech Startup Ecosystem Workshop 2024, Indonesia ????

I had the privilege to represent the National Incubation Center for Aerospace Technologies (NICAT) and Pakistan at the ADB Tech Startup Ecosystem Workshop 2024 in Indonesia, held from September 9-13 in Jakarta and Bandung. Organized by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in collaboration with Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Informatics (KOMINFO), the event was designed to facilitate knowledge exchange between over 60 participants from ten countries, alongside leading ecosystem enablers.

The workshop presented a unique platform to delve into Indonesia’s dynamic startup ecosystem, which has gained global recognition for producing 14 unicorns. This success showcases the country's dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation. Over the course of five days, we engaged with global experts, government officials, and fellow ecosystem builders, exchanging insights into how technology and innovation are shaping the future.

Key Learnings and Highlights

Day 1 began with an opening address by key ADB officials, followed by a keynote speech by Boni Pudjianto, the Director of Digital Economy at KOMINFO. His address highlighted Indonesia's remarkable journey in digital transformation and its policy frameworks designed to foster tech-driven entrepreneurship. The day featured a vibrant panel discussion with representatives from GIZ Indonesia, JETRO Indonesia, and the Inter-American Development Bank who shared how Indonesia's ecosystem support programs are helping startups thrive. The Tech Startup Ecosystem Showcase, facilitated by Arndt Husar from ADB, featured delegations from nine countries, including Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Philippines, and Viet Nam, sharing insights into their respective startup ecosystems. Each delegation highlighted key initiatives, challenges, and innovations within their regions. Loved presenting Pakistan ???? & Govt of Pakistan Vision to make IT a $25B Industry by 2030.

On Day 2, the session focused on Indonesia’s economic development journey and its approach to building a robust startup ecosystem. Andianto Haryoko from BAPPENAS (Indonesia’s Ministry of National Development Planning) shared Indonesia’s long-term strategy for integrating ICT and innovation into its economic growth plans. Tech Startup Ecosystem Development was another key theme for the day, with Boni Pudjianto and Muhammad Neil El Himam from the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy emphasizing the pivotal role of government support in accelerating digital economy growth.

Day 3, of the ADB Tech Startup Ecosystem Workshop focused on Startup Financing and Local Ecosystems. The day began with a roundtable discussion on fostering the emergence of an Angel Investment and Venture Capital Ecosystem, moderated by Abhishek Hegde from ADB. The session included insights from key experts like Hee Woong Yang from ADB, Sarah Usman from MDI Ventures, David Soukhasing from Angin, and representatives from Kazakhstan and Bangladesh. After a tea break, participants traveled by Whoosh train (high-speed railway) to Bandung for an exciting agenda of ecosystem exploration. We visited Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), where we witnessed a showcase of local startup incubation efforts, including ITB's Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development and The Greater Hub. The day concluded with a tour of ITB's startup-focused facilities, followed by a networking dinner at the Sheraton Bandung with ITB and local startup ecosystem invitees.

One of the most inspiring moments for me came on Day 4, when we visited eFishery, one of Indonesia’s unicorn startups. Gibran Huzaifah, the CEO and co-founder of eFishery, walked us through their journey of creating a high-impact agri-tech solution. This visit was a testament to how Indonesia’s startup ecosystem is empowering entrepreneurs to solve real-world problems, scaling innovative solutions, and transforming entire industries.

Reflections and Vision for Pakistan

Attending the workshop solidified my belief that Pakistan’s startup ecosystem can take a giant leap forward by learning from Indonesia’s experience. Pakistan, with its large and young population, is well-positioned to replicate some of these successes by focusing on a few key areas:

1. Policy and Infrastructure Support: Indonesia’s government-backed initiatives, such as tax incentives for startups and innovation hubs like 1000 Startups, have played a pivotal role in driving ecosystem growth. Pakistan can benefit by offering similar structural support to foster innovation.
2. Venture Capital and Angel Investment: The importance of building a strong local venture capital base was emphasized throughout the workshop. As I sat down in Bandung reflecting on the sessions, I felt more committed than ever to establish a local Angel Network and a Venture Capital Fund for Pakistan.
3. Collaboration and Global Networks: The networking opportunities provided during the event highlighted the immense value of cross-border partnerships. Indonesia’s close ties with international tech ecosystems serve as a model for how Pakistan can open more doors for its startups by forging global alliances.

In conclusion, the ADB Tech Startup Ecosystem Workshop was an eye-opening experience. Kudos to the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for organizing an exceptional workshop, bringing together remarkable participants from startup ecosystems across the globe. I left with a renewed commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in Pakistan, not only by supporting startups through NICAT but also by building bridges across the global innovation landscape.

The time is ripe for Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem to take the next step forward—and I am excited to be part of this journey!

About the Author: Imran Jattala is Project Director, National Incubation Center for Aerospace Technologies (NICAT). He is a Co-Founder of IGI Digital . He tweets at: ImJattala