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The event is set to bring together MSMEs, emerging startups, and established eCommerce brands to explore the latest trends, technologies, and strategies. With a focus on “Shaping the Future of Bharat’s eCommerce,” Shiprocket SHIVIR 2024 aims to equip businesses with the insights and tools needed to navigate the dynamic digital commerce landscape.

Digital commerce in India is rapidly evolving, driven by the rise of quick commerce, increasing consumer demands, and technological advancements. Shiprocket SHIVIR 2024 seeks to address these trends by providing innovative solutions and deep insights crucial for eCommerce businesses and MSMEs to drive growth.

Under Shiprocket’s commitment to being MSMEs’ “Unnati Ka Saathi,” this edition will spotlight the unique challenges and opportunities within Bharat’s eCommerce sector. The event will feature industry leaders and experts sharing cutting-edge ideas and best practices through engaging panel discussions, masterclasses, fireside chats, and invaluable networking opportunities. These sessions aim to provide attendees with actionable insights and innovative approaches to enhance regional market growth and customer experiences through technology.

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Saahil Goel, MD & CEO of Shiprocket, expressed his excitement about the event, stating, “We are thrilled to host the 5th edition of Shiprocket SHIVIR, a platform dedicated to nurturing the burgeoning eCommerce sector in India. As we march closer to India’s vision of Viksit Bharat, our goal of empowering MSMEs and digital businesses across Bharat becomes increasingly vital. Through Shiprocket SHIVIR, we aim to create a space for visionary entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and disruptive innovators to collaborate and share transformative ideas that will shape the future of Bharat’s eCommerce. Our aim is to foster a self-reliant and prosperous digital economy with a robust eCommerce ecosystem that propels India towards becoming a global economic powerhouse.”

Shiprocket SHIVIR has established itself as a premier event in the eCommerce sector over the past four editions. The previous edition showcased over 100 digital-first companies and attracted more than 1,600 participants, including new-age entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers. This year, Shiprocket SHIVIR 2024 will feature an impressive lineup of prominent speakers such as Snapdeal founder Kunal Bahl, T Koshy from ONDC, The Moms Co-founder Malika Sadani, and Milagro Beauty Co-founder Nikita Malhotra, among many others.

In addition to insightful sessions and networking opportunities, Shiprocket SHIVIR 2024 will celebrate the trailblazers of Bharat’s eCommerce through the ‘Shiprocket SHIVIR Awards.’ These awards honor outstanding contributions and achievements of individuals and brands across various sectors. This year’s jury, featuring distinguished personalities like Amit Singal, Founding Partner of Fluid Ventures & Real Time Angel Fund, and Apurva Chamaria, Head of Startups and VC Partnerships at Google India, will evaluate the nominations. Brands with disruptive stories can register and nominate themselves on the event website, with entries closing on July 5th.

About Shiprocket

Shiprocket is India’s largest eCommerce enablement platform, dedicated to empowering Bharat’s businesses to scale their ventures by leveraging the true power of eCommerce. The platform supports sellers throughout their eCommerce journey, offering a comprehensive operating system for direct commerce. Shiprocket’s tech integrations enable shipping, fulfillment, customer communication, and marketing tools for SMEs, D2C retailers, and social commerce retailers in India.

Launched in 2017, Shiprocket aims to create a seamless logistics data platform connecting retailers, carriers, and consumers globally. The technology stack assists retailers in integrating their shopping websites on Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, Zoho, and others with the platform’s multi-carrier API. It manages orders, prints shipping labels, and provides tracking information from multiple providers, including handling Cash on Delivery (COD) orders and payment reconciliation. With over 45 warehouses across India, Shiprocket offers state-of-the-art fulfillment solutions, a robust post-purchase experience, and higher consumer engagement. The platform’s shipping solutions cover 24,000+ pin codes in India and 220 countries and territories worldwide.

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Founded by cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Renita Rajan, CHOSEN^® focuses on developing innovative skincare products through patents and cutting-edge formulations while expanding into IoT-led skincare solutions. Now in its fourth year, CHOSEN^® plans to utilize the funds to grow its headcount and enhance its supply chain capabilities.

“This seed round provides us with the flexibility to strategically expand our operations and explore new areas for growth. Our next step is to explore partnerships with B2B sectors such as hospitality, health, travel, and leisure to expand our distribution channels.  Our goal is to secure pre-series funding of $10 to $20 million later this year,” said Dr. Renita Rajan, Founder of CHOSEN^®.

Earlier this year, CHOSEN^® was featured in Peak XV’s cohort of women-led startups, marking a significant milestone with the $100,000 grant. Over the past 4 years, CHOSEN^® has developed a multi-channel ecosystem of highly active cosmetic products tailored for Indian skin types. CHOSEN^® currently offers 34 SKUs, with 12 more in the pipeline and additional products slated for launch within the next 18 months.

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With an LED mask design patent and four additional patents in progress, CHOSEN® recently launched SAFESCREEN® TINTENSE Tinted Sunscreen Lotion, an outstanding tinted sunscreen featuring India’s first-ever combination of non-nano zinc, non-nano titanium, and non-nano iron oxide. This made-for-India, pregnancy, nursing, and reef-safe sunscreen offers high-level protection against HEVL, UV, and IR rays while providing flawless coverage, containing up to 93.04% natural, biodegradable content. Additionally, there are several ongoing innovative projects, including a melanin lab and IoT-driven personalized skincare technology.

“At CHOSEN^®, we are committed to creating long-term, safe, and effective wellness solutions. Our products are designed to provide lasting benefits, reflecting our dedication to quality and innovation,” Dr. Renita Rajan added.

With a headcount of 130 and plans for further recruitment, CHOSEN® is poised for significant growth, projecting a 2x increase in scale this fiscal year.

About CHOSEN^®

CHOSEN^® is a pioneering beauty and wellness brand in India, deeply rooted in dermatological expertise and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Their products, carefully formulated with high-quality ingredients and validated by scientific research, are designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals of all ages and skin types. Embracing inclusivity, CHOSEN^® offers safe formulations, including specialized lines tailored for pregnant and nursing mothers, ensuring that everyone can indulge in self-care without compromise. Sustainability is the core ethos, reflected in their eco-friendly packaging and emphasis on natural, biodegradable ingredients. Through vibrant social media engagement, educational events, and strategic partnerships with experts, CHOSEN^® fosters a sense of belonging and support within its community. By prioritizing customer relationships and community building, CHOSEN^® not only enhances its brand reputation but also ensures that every individual feels valued and empowered on their journey towards beauty and wellness.

The post CHOSEN® Raises $1.2 Million in Seed Funding to Expand Skincare Innovations appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

Goyal explained on X (formerly Twitter), “At Zomato, having precise and up-to-the-minute weather information is pivotal for making informed business decisions to enhance our customer service. Therefore, we undertook the initiative to create a solution that empowers us in this aspect.”

As part of its Zomato Giveback initiative, the company is extending free API access to all institutions and businesses across the country, underscoring the importance of resource-sharing for the collective benefit of the public.

Goyal highlighted the substantial potential of this comprehensive data in unlocking various weather-related applications for enterprises and research institutions. “Through collaborations like the one with CAS – IIT Delhi, we anticipate that more organizations and companies will leverage this resource to contribute to the overall welfare of our economy,” he expressed.

Presently operational in 45 Indian cities, the Weather Union is slated for expansion to additional cities in the near future.

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In another post on X, Goyal discussed the rationale behind this new fleet, explaining, “Such large orders were earlier served by multiple regular fleet delivery partners, and the customer experience wasn’t what we really aspired for… These new vehicles should solve most of the problems our customers face while placing large orders on Zomato.”

The introduction of the large order fleet is part of Zomato’s strategy to widen its market by accommodating more scenarios for food delivery.

Goyal mentioned that the fleet is still evolving, with future plans to include features like cooling compartments and hot boxes with temperature control to maintain the food’s quality and temperature. “The vehicles are still a ‘work in progress’,” he noted.

This announcement follows an earlier controversial initiative by Zomato to launch a ‘pure veg fleet’ for deliveries from vegetarian-only restaurants, which was met with criticism on social media. The company subsequently abandoned its plans for distinctive green uniforms and boxes following the backlash.

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Uniting Athletes and Coaches

SportsSkill serves as a virtual nexus where athletes of all levels and disciplines can seamlessly connect with experienced coaches from around the globe. Whether you’re a novice seeking fundamental skills or a seasoned competitor aiming for the podium, the platform offers an extensive network of specialized coaches to cater to diverse needs.

Personalized Coaching, Anywhere, Anytime

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all coaching programs. With SportsSkill, athletes receive personalized guidance tailored to their unique strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. Through a combination of video calls, messaging, and data-driven analysis, coaches provide targeted feedback and training plans, empowering athletes to maximize their potential from the comfort of their own training grounds.

Bridging the Gap with Virtual Training Sessions

Distance is no longer a barrier to impactful coaching, thanks to SportsSkill’s innovative virtual training sessions. Athletes can upload their videos and share with the coaches for feedback, and corrections. This immersive experience not only fosters a sense of connection and accountability but also ensures that athletes can fine-tune their skills with precision and efficiency.

Fostering a Community of Support and Growth

Beyond the coach-athlete relationship, SportsSkill cultivates a vibrant community of like-minded individuals united by their passion for sports. Through interactive forums, group chats, and collaborative sessions, users share insights, celebrate achievements, and offer support along the journey to excellence. This sense of camaraderie fuels motivation, fosters learning, and propels athletes to new heights of success.

Embracing the Future of Sports Coaching

In a world where innovation drives progress, SportsSkill stands at the forefront of the sports coaching revolution. By harnessing technology, connectivity, and a commitment to excellence, the platform empowers athletes to transcend boundaries and unlock their full potential. Whether you’re a coach with a wealth of knowledge to share or an athlete with dreams of greatness, SportsSkill invites you to join the movement and redefine what’s possible in the world of sports coaching.

In today’s rapidly evolving sports landscape, the fusion of technology and coaching expertise has become a game-changer in honing athletes’ skills and knowledge. One pioneering concept gaining momentum is the creation of a comprehensive video coaching platform, offering athletes access to expert insights and guidance from top-tier coaches. This innovative approach not only benefits athletes directly but also establishes a transformative resource for coaches globally, elevating the standards of sports education on an international scale.

Also Read: Anwesh Bose Takes the Helm as Chief Growth Officer at Dentsu Indonesia

The journey towards establishing this groundbreaking initiative begins with a strategic partnership with the academy’s head coach. This collaboration is pivotal in mapping out the platform’s content, from identifying key topics to orchestrating filming logistics. By tapping into the head coach’s wealth of experience, the platform can be tailored to address the specific needs and challenges faced by the academy’s athletes.

With topics delineated, the next phase involves capturing coaching tips and demonstrations with precision and clarity. High-definition filming is imperative to effectively convey nuanced techniques and strategies. Through concise and engaging videos, athletes gain invaluable insights spanning technical mastery to mental fortitude, enhancing their overall performance and understanding of the sport.

Post-filming, meticulous editing and categorization are employed to ensure seamless navigation and accessibility on the academy’s dedicated login platform. Organizing the content intuitively empowers athletes to navigate through the wealth of information effortlessly, maximizing their learning experience and skill acquisition.

Accessible to all players and camp attendees, the video coaching platform offers on-demand access to expert guidance, transcending geographical barriers and time constraints. This democratization of coaching fosters a culture of continuous improvement, empowering athletes to refine their skills at their own pace, irrespective of their physical location or training schedule.

Central to the platform’s success is the integration of feedback mechanisms, soliciting input from athletes and coaches alike. This iterative process facilitates ongoing refinement and enhancement of content, ensuring its relevance and efficacy. By remaining responsive to the evolving needs of its users, the platform remains a dynamic and indispensable resource for athletes and coaches alike.

In addition to regular updates, the platform’s scope can be expanded to encompass a diverse array of topics and disciplines, catering to athletes of varying proficiency levels and interests. This holistic approach ensures that the platform remains engaging and relevant, catering to the multifaceted needs of today’s athletes.

Beyond the academy’s confines, the platform has the potential to transcend borders, reaching athletes and coaches worldwide. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, its impact can be amplified, fostering a global community of athletes and coaches united by a shared pursuit of excellence.

Furthermore, leveraging the SportsSkill  platform can amplify coaches’ visibility and impact, positioning them as influential figures in the global sports arena. This platform serves as a springboard for personal and professional growth, facilitating networking opportunities and access to a wealth of resources.

The creation of a comprehensive video coaching platform represents a watershed moment in sports education. By harnessing the synergies of technology and coaching expertise, this initiative has the power to revolutionize the way athletes learn and excel in their respective disciplines. As the global sports landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like these are instrumental in shaping the future of sports education and coaching, empowering athletes and coaches alike to realize their full potential on a global stage.

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Range Protocol, a unified liquidity provisioning platform, today announced the launch of Skate, the universal application layer that empowers apps to run on thousands of chains with one state. 

Designed with an intent-centric approach, Skate aims to efficiently address the application fragmentations as a single hub for all code deployment across all chains. Backed by leading web3 players, including EigenLayer, Polygon, Manta, Axelar, Biconomy, Pendle, A41, Vertex, Navi, Galxe, Pontem and more, Skate will deliver its vision with faster finality and universal application scope, paving the way for its mainnet launch within the year. 

In today’s multi-chain landscape, applications face pressing needs to deploy, adapt and maintain across an increasing number of chains. Skate introduces the concept of a Universal Application Scope, where essential applications are developed collectively and maintained in a shared pool accessible to all chains — regardless of its underlying Virtual Machine environment. With Skate, users and developers are able to efficiently and instantly access thousands of chains by interacting with one application instance.

Siddharth Lalwani, Co-Founder and CEO of Range Protocol shared, “The rise of modularity powered innovations such as improved throughput and reduced transaction costs. However, it also came with its own set of challenges, most notably, application fragmentation. Skate introduces the concept of the Universal Application Layer, where essential applications are developed collectively, and maintained in a shared pool accessible to all chains. This ensures foundational needs of builders and users are met efficiently, allowing each chain to focus on creating value-added services and laying the building blocks for a modular future.”

Move from Duplication to Innovation: One Skate, One State

Skate is the only intent-centric application layer in the ecosystem, enabling applications to run across thousands of chains and different tech stacks at the same time through a single interface. Moving past duplication of deployments, Skate works as a hub for deploying, developing and maintaining a singular version of smart contracts while servicing users across diverse chains. 

One of the key innovations of Skate is the embedding of interoperability within the application logic, reversing the legacy approach of building apps first and integrating interoperability afterwards. Skate ensures that all applications are created with interoperability as a foundational component, streamlining the development process and removing the necessity to bridge assets, but also significantly enhances the user experience by providing a fluid, interconnected ecosystem where transactions and information flow effortlessly between chains.

Also read: Peg Stablecoins Like UST To Less Volatile Tokens: Huobi Research Institute

Aside from the underlying interoperability networks, Skate will be connected to all the blockchains through Fast Finality Network, secured by EigenLayer actively validated service (AVS), to send state attestations from Skate with sufficient trust minimized assumptions. This brings instantaneous cross-chain intent-driven settlements and reduces slippage when making trades while removing unnecessary complexities from an end-user perspective.

Securing the Modular Future, Backed by Web3 Pioneers

The launch of Skate is supported by buy-ins from leading web3 players, including EigenLayer, Polygon, Manta, Axelar, Biconomy, Pendle, A41, Vertex, Navi, Galxe, Pontem and more. Forged by the same team of financial engineers and web3 developers behind Range Protocol, a unified liquidity provisioning platform covering key DeFi asset classes, the Skate team brings deep cumulative experience from leading companies like Altonomy, Point72, Bybit, Certik and Citigroup. Skate’s launch also follows Range Protocol’s $3.75M seed round last year, led by HashKey Capital and Nomad Capital. In the coming months, Skate aims to introduce Testnet Campaigns to community members with unique incentives. To keep up to date on Skate and its upcoming testnet campaigns, follow their Twitter: https://twitter.com/skate_chain.

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About Range Protocol and Skate

Underpinned by robust on-chain trading infrastructure, Range Protocol is a unified liquidity provisioning platform. Harnessing advanced expertise and professional strategies, Range Protocol covers key DeFi asset classes through its vault offerings. Combining the best of automated market makers (AMMs) and request-for-quote (RFQ), Range Protocol empowers sound decision-making and optimized strategies for the next generation of investors — with no intermediaries needed. 

Forged by a team of financial engineers and web3 developers with extensive crypto trading proficiencies, Range Protocol brings deep experience from leading companies like Altonomy, Point72, Bybit, Certik and Citigroup. Its most recent $3.75M seed round was led by HashKey Capital and Nomad Capital.

Range now expands into Skate, the universal application layer that empowers apps to run on 1000s of chains with one state. Skate was born with the realization of the limitations of the legacy on-chain trading infrastructure, which deploys repetitive blocks on every new chain. Underpinned by innovation, Skate delivers fast finality across all chains, secured by EigenLayer actively validated service (AVS), and acts as a single hub for all code deployments. Separating assets from pricing, Skate introduces the concept of a Universal Application Scope, where essential applications are developed collectively and maintained in a shared pool accessible to all chains — regardless of its underlying Virtual Machine environment. Solving for dApp/chain-liquidity fragmentation in a modular web3 landscape, Skate ensures foundational needs are met efficiently, allowing each chain to focus on creating unique, value-added services.

For more information, please visit:

Website: http://skatechain.org/

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/skate_chain  

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Key Highlights:

1. Dino Morea’s The Fresh Press raises a Pre-Series A round from Gruhas Collective Consumer Fund, positioning it for rapid growth in the cold-pressed juice market. The Fresh Press is also a part of the first Gruhas Gusto FoodTech Accelerator Programme.

2. The Fresh Press chain of cold-pressed juice bars/outlets with 36+ stores across the country. This infusion of capital will support the expansion of their QSR and shop-in-shop presence and build their team and marketing

3. The Fresh Press aims to capitalize on the rapidly growing juices market which is expected to reach USD 1.5 billion by 2030 with India experiencing a 25.43% growth rate. The brand aims to become a leading organized player in the cold-pressed juice industry.

2nd April 2024, Nationwide: The Fresh Press, a cold-pressed juice brand based out of Mumbai has successfully raised a Pre-Series A round from Gruhas Collective Consumer Fund (GCCF). The brand was co-founded by Mithil Lodha and Rahul Jain, where actor-entrepreneur Dino Morea came on board as both an investor and co-founder. Since its inception in 2018, The Fresh Press boasts over 36 stores nationwide. The brand has strategically partnered with PVR, INOX, and Reliance to strengthen its market presence and accessibility to a larger audience.

As of March, this year, The Fresh Press is also a part of the first cohort of Gruhas Gusto- a FoodTech accelerator program by Gruhas, Jubilant Family Office, DLF Family Office, and Anthill Ventures

In the coming months, the brand aims to expand its market presence in Southern cities such as Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Chennai, while also targeting key regions like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Delhi for nationwide coverage. The goal is to establish 1000 Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) stores, solidifying The Fresh Press’s position as a leading juice brand in India, committed to offering 100% natural, sustainable products for a healthy lifestyle.

Globally, the cold-pressed juices market is expected to reach USD 1.5 billion by 2030, growing at a rate of 7.54% annually. In India, the market is booming with a staggering 25.43% growth rate from 2021 to 2028, fueled by increasing retail presence and consumer demand for nutritious fruit juices. With a growing focus on health and a decline in the popularity of colas and carbonated beverages, there is an evident trend toward healthier options. The Fresh Press aims to cater to the evolving Indian Consumers and emerge as a significant player in the healthy beverage industry.

Also Read: Kinesso Australia Clinches Microsoft Advertising’s Prestigious Global Agency of the Year Award 2023

Regarding the investment, Dino Morea stated, “With the support of GCCF and Gusto Accelerators, we envision expanding our footprint nationwide, revolutionizing the way people perceive and consume nutritious beverages. We anticipate that the current funding will definitely help in building a little bigger team since expansion is a major part of this fundraise. We aim to utilize it as effectively as possible and maximize results for smoother operations.” Adding to this, Mithil Lodha, Co-founder The Fresh Press said, “We strive to be a leading brand promoting healthier lifestyles, making a significant impact on individuals’ health journeys. Our vision is exponential growth, becoming a prominent name in the healthy beverage industry.”

Nikhil Kamath, Co-founder Gruhas, “Our commitment to The Fresh Press reflects our support for the growing health consciousness among Indian consumers. As people become more mindful about what they eat, I want to support innovative homegrown entrepreneurs who are leading the charge in the health and consumer sectors. It’s time we take control of our own well-being and pay attention to our nutrition intake. The Fresh Press has done incredibly well over the years, and we are committed to helping them expand even further.”

Vijay Subramaniam, Founder and Group CEO of Collective Artists Network, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating “We are enthusiastic about our involvement in The Fresh Press journey and its commitment to promoting health through quality cold-pressed juices and organic offerings. We believe that with its strategic expansion plans and focus on empowering healthier lifestyles, The Fresh Press is well-positioned for sustained growth and a substantial impact on the market.”

The fresh fruit juice market in India is significant with a size of USD 13 billion. The industry is rapidly growing towards health-conscious consumer choices and a preference for natural, non-carbonated beverages. With India’s tropical climate driving demand, the brand’s 5-year vision anticipates exponential growth.

About The Fresh Press

The Fresh Press, a unit of TFPF Private Limited, is a Cold-pressed Juice Company committed to promoting health and wellness through its offerings. Focusing on delivering the best and

healthiest juices, smoothies, shakes, fruit platters, and desserts, The Fresh Press celebrates the flavors and organic goodness of natural ingredients. Their mission is to empower individuals to lead healthier lives by providing nutritious and delicious options. Currently available in Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, and Bhopal, The Fresh Press continues to expand its reach and cultivate meaningful partnerships with leading retailers

Website | Instagram

About Gruhas Collective Consumer Fund (GCCF)

GCCF is a VC fund that brings a fresh approach to consumer ventures with unparalleled insight and targeted capital infusion. The fund is a partnership between Gruhas and Collective Artists Network. Gruhas’ expertise complements the creative amplitude of Collective Artists, offering a multifaceted platform for ventures to grow, connect, and make an indelible mark. They are focused on early-stage investments in the new-age consumer-focused brands, building for India.

Linkedin

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The Journey to Global Exposure:

• Ramachandran Muniandy’s participation in the EWC not only showcased Malaysia’s innovative potential but also opened avenues for global investor connections and market explorations.
• Representing the only Malaysian startup at this level, Muniandy’s experience highlights the EWC’s role in bridging local innovations with international opportunities.

A Call to Malaysian Entrepreneurs:

• With the Entrepreneurship World Cup 2024 Malaysia final on the horizon, startups are urged to seize this unparalleled opportunity by applying before the April 30, 2024, deadline.
• The EWC stands out not just as a competition but as a gateway to global networking, investment, and growth prospects.

Why Apply for EWC 2024? The competition offers a plethora of benefits, including:

• Significant Cash Prize: Up to $1,000,000 available for grabs at the global final in Riyadh, alongside additional category-specific awards.
• Valuable In-Kind Benefits: Applicants gain access to perks valued between $10,000 and $100,000.
• No Application Fee & Equity Preservation: Ensures accessibility and integrity for all participating startups.
• All-Expenses-Paid Trip: Winners of the Malaysia final will enjoy a fully funded trip to the global finals, emphasizing the competition’s commitment to fostering global talent.
• Exposure to Global Investors and Markets: A platform to pitch to renowned judges, secure funding, and explore new business landscapes.
• Rigorous Governance Process: Ensures a fair and unbiased competition environment, backed by a dedicated committee system.
• Strong Ecosystem Support: Participation signifies engagement with key players in Malaysia’s startup ecosystem and government bodies.

Also Read: MS Dhoni’s IPL Legacy: Exploring Iconic Ads as He Passes CSK Captaincy

A Salute to Entrepreneurs Worldwide:

Muniandy’s journey and the successes of other EWC participants demonstrate just how much this competition fosters big-thinking in enterprises all across the world. Given the EWC’s track record of success and all the benefits it offers, any startup hoping to grow should not miss the 2024 edition.

Creating Global Connections: As the application deadline approaches, Malaysian companies should consider the potential benefits of the EWC. It’s an opportunity to meet people, learn, and develop—it’s not just a competition. For startups looking to make a big impact on the world, the EWC is a crucial opportunity.

The post Global Insights from EWC’s Malaysian Trailblazer appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

Deepinder Goyal, the CEO and founder of Zomato, announced the initiative on X (previously known as Twitter).

Goyal mentioned in his announcement, “India is home to the highest number of vegetarians globally, and we’ve received significant feedback highlighting their particular concerns regarding food preparation and handling.” He further explained that the motive behind these new services is to address the needs of such customers.

The ‘Pure Veg Mode’ on the app will filter and display only those restaurants that exclusively offer vegetarian cuisine, effectively omitting any establishments that include non-vegetarian options in their menu.

Similarly, the ‘Pure Veg Fleet’ delivery service will be dedicated to handling orders exclusively from vegetarian restaurants, ensuring that orders for non-vegetarian food or vegetarian meals from restaurants that also serve non-vegetarian options will not be processed by this fleet.

Goyal has indicated that these services will be introduced gradually across the country over the coming weeks.

Recent Update:

Zomato, a food delivery platform, has withdrawn its ‘green fleet’ service, which aimed to deliver vegetarian food within a day of its launch, following backlash on social media. CEO Deepinder Goyal praised users for highlighting the service’s shortcomings.

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This alliance is not just a partnership but a beacon of hope and progress in the quest for entrepreneurial excellence. The MVCA’s commitment is a testament to the EWC’s unwavering dedication to unearthing and nurturing top-tier startup talent from Malaysia, setting them on a path to global recognition and success.

Applications for the Malaysian edition of the EWC 2024 are now open, ushering in an exciting phase for startups eager to make their mark. Entrepreneurs across Malaysia are invited to seize this unprecedented opportunity to showcase their innovations on a world stage. Interested parties can apply at this link.

In this journey towards entrepreneurial triumph, the EWC 2024 is proudly supported by the Global Entrepreneurship Network as the Global Host, with MonshaatSA as the Global Co-Host. The Misk Foundation stands as the Global Founding Partner, exemplifying the collaborative spirit driving this event. Nationally, Startupscale360 FZE is honored as the National Host, alongside GITP Asia as the National Co-Host, creating a robust platform for startups to soar.

This partnership marks a milestone in the EWC’s history and signals a bright future for Malaysian startups. As they gear up to compete and shine on the global stage, the EWC 2024, powered by these influential collaborations, is set to be an event that transforms dreams into tangible successes.

The post MVCA Joins Forces with EWC 2024 to Propel Malaysian Startups onto Global Stage appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

The highlights of the visit included:

• A crucial meeting with YB Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital, and key figures from Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Asia Mobiliti, and Malaysia Venture Capital Management Berhad (MAVCAP), focusing on their support for the EWC2024 Malaysia Final.

• The Malaysian Venture Capital & Private Equity Association (MVCA) embraced the role of Ecosystem Partner for EWC2024 Malaysia, with SaiKit N., Chairman of MVCA, endorsing the agreement.

• Noor Amy Ismail, COO, and Yeoh Melissa, ESG and Partnership Lead at MAVCAP, reaffirmed their unwavering support for the EWC2024 Malaysia Final.

• Support pledges from Herman Syah Abdul Rahim, CIO, KMP (Kumpulan Modal Perdana), Jamaludin Bujang, Managing Partner, Gobi Partners, and Arsalaan (Oz) Ahmed, Chairman, mmob to promote EWC2024 among their networks.

• Venue Partnerships were formalized with Gurpardeep Singh, COO, Prof Dr Ir EurIng Ts Vinesh Thiruchelvam, CI&EO, and Lalua Rahsiad, Lead SIFU.

• A co-hosting agreement for the EWC2024 Malaysia Final was confirmed with Raffles Chan, CEO, GITP Asia.
• Zentrix Chiu, Strategic Partner, Creative Technology Ltd, pledged strategic partnership for the EWC2024 Malaysia Final.
• Dr. Sivapalan Vivekarajah, Co-founder, ScaleUp Malaysia, joined the Screening Committee for the EWC2024 Malaysia Final, adding his expertise to the selection process.

• Support from Keasavan Hari Krishnan, Global Partnership, MRANTI, Misha Gonzago Abdullah, Manager and MUHAMMAD AIZAT ABD. RAHIM, Cyberview Sdn Bhd, Mohamad Ameer Bukhqari Mohamad Nor, AVP, Malaysian Technology Development Corporation, and Ching Shya Lee, RTTP, Technology Transfer Manager, University of Malaya for the EWC2024 Malaysia Final.

These partnerships underscore the collective effort to elevate Malaysia’s position in the global entrepreneurial landscape through the Entrepreneurship World Cup 2024.

The initiative is backed by national host Startupscale360 FZE, global hosts Global Entrepreneurship Network and MonshaatSA, and founding partner Misk Foundation.

The EWC Malaysia Steering Committee features Noor Amy Ismail, Arsalaan (Oz) Ahmed, Herman Syah Abdul Rahim, and Karunjit Kumar Dhir, while the EWC Malaysia Management Committee includes Lalua Rashiad, Raffles Chan, Zentrix Chiu, and Ramachandran Muniandy. Dr. Sivapalan Vivekarajah leads the EWC Malaysia Screening Committee.

This development represents an open invitation to Malaysian startups to be part of this transformative journey, contributing to the global entrepreneurial dialogue.

Apply here for the EWC 2024 Malaysia Final and be a part of this groundbreaking event shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Malaysia.

The post EWC 2024 Malaysia: Forging Pathways for Startup Excellence and Innovation appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

Targeting the Heart of Indian Agriculture

Orbit Farming is uniquely positioned to cater to mid-sized Indian farmers, those managing 2 to 10 hectares of farmland. The startup’s mission is to offer innovative solutions that enhance both productivity and profitability for these farmers. Gokhale, expressing his passion for this new endeavor, said, “After an enriching 6-year journey at Swiggy, I am starting up again in a sector that has always fascinated me, agriculture! Happy to partner with Aishwarya Ramakrishnan in this journey as we zero in on an idea and launch Orbit Farming.”

Bridging Traditional and Modern Farming

The startup’s LinkedIn page reveals its aim to bridge the gap between traditional farming methods and modern, technology-driven solutions. Orbit Farming plans to leverage mechanization and advanced techniques to empower mid-sized farms, enabling them to achieve higher yields and increased income.

Also Read: Digital Surge and Skill Gaps: Unveiling the New Face of Asia’s Marcom Industry

Leveraging Diverse Expertise

Gokhale’s significant experience from Swiggy, where he managed key operational aspects, and his earlier venture in agritech, Truce-True Price, provides a solid foundation for Orbit Farming. Ramakrishnan, with her insights from Mahindra’s agritech business, Krish-e, adds depth and expertise to the venture.

Building a Founding Team

The founders are actively recruiting to build a team that shares their vision of empowering mid-sized farms. This initiative is part of a broader trend of Indian executives venturing into entrepreneurship, as seen with Gautam Sinha’s launch of SimpleO.ai and Karthik Gurumurthy’s funding for Convenio.

Orbit Farming’s Vision for Indian Agriculture

Orbit Farming stands as a significant step towards addressing the evolving needs of Indian agriculture. By harnessing technology and innovation, the startup is poised to make a meaningful impact on the livelihoods of farmers and the agricultural landscape. With Gokhale and Ramakrishnan’s leadership, Orbit Farming is on a promising path to usher in a new era of farming excellence in India.

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A Leap Towards Electric Vehicles

Central to Zomato’s sustainability mission is its commitment to ensuring that by 2033, 100% of its deliveries will be via electric vehicles (EVs). This move is a significant stride towards reducing carbon emissions, marking a crucial step in achieving net-zero emissions in the food delivery sector. It reflects a growing awareness of the environmental impact of business operations and a proactive approach to addressing these challenges.

The Plastic-Neutral Promise

Complementing its EV initiative, Zomato aims to make every food delivery order plastic-neutral. Through voluntary recycling measures, the company has set a target to deliver 100 million plastic-free food orders by 2025. This initiative not only highlights Zomato’s commitment to reducing its ecological footprint but also underscores the importance of sustainable practices in the modern business landscape.

Government Endorsement and the EV Drive

The government’s support for Zomato’s EV adoption plan is noteworthy. Ramesh Krishnamurthi, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Labour and Employment, praised the initiative, aligning it with the government’s push towards sustainable solutions. This endorsement underscores the significance of private-public collaboration in achieving broader environmental goals.

Empowering Gig Workers

Zomato’s vision transcends environmental concerns, extending into the realm of social responsibility, particularly towards gig workers. The company is dedicated to improving the lives of one million gig workers by enhancing their earning and saving capacities. Initiatives include upskilling programs and partnerships that focus on the transformative impact of gig work on livelihoods in India.

A Holistic Approach to Sustainability

In its broader sustainability goals, Zomato is not just focusing on EVs and plastic neutrality. The company is actively working towards developing food ordering and delivery solutions that cater to the next billion customers. This involves ensuring affordability, accessibility, assortment, and quality. Furthermore, Zomato has pledged to support the growth of 300,000 micro, small, and medium restaurant businesses and food entrepreneurs. This is coupled with a commitment to bring health and safety knowledge and innovations to its restaurant partners.

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The Journey of Indian Startups: Triumphs Amidst Trials

The past year has been a rollercoaster for Indian startups. Despite facing formidable challenges like funding crunches and regulatory complexities, these ventures have not just survived; they’ve thrived. The government’s proactive role, notably through the Startup India scheme, has been pivotal in this success story. Yet, the journey is far from smooth. Talent acquisition, retention, and the need for transparent governance remain critical hurdles.

Embracing Challenges as Opportunities

What sets the Indian startup scene apart is its ability to turn challenges into opportunities. Entrepreneurs across the nation are not just navigating these hurdles; they’re leveraging them to innovate and disrupt traditional business models. This mindset shift – viewing obstacles as stepping stones – is driving a new wave of entrepreneurial success.

Also Read: SUTD’s Innovative 3D Bus Campaign Redefines Higher Education Advertising

The Government’s Role: A Catalyst for Change

The Indian government’s unwavering support has been a cornerstone of this growth. Initiatives like the Atal Innovation Mission and Startup India have provided startups with the resources, mentorship, and policy support needed to flourish. This backing has been crucial in fostering a conducive environment for startups to innovate and expand.

The Rise of Tech Startups in Tier-II and III Cities

A notable trend in the Indian startup ecosystem is the rise of tech startups in tier-II and III cities. This expansion signifies the inclusivity and resilience of the startup landscape, bringing innovation and opportunities to previously untapped regions.

The IPO Momentum and Global Recognition

The year 2023 witnessed a robust momentum in IPOs, with 18 tech companies going public. This milestone, coupled with the landmark achievement of surpassing 100,000 registered startups, cements India’s position as a global startup hub.

The Future: A Blend of Innovation and Social Impact

Looking ahead, the future of Indian startups is not just about financial success; it’s about making a meaningful impact. Sectors like healthcare are seeing a surge in entrepreneurial activity, driven by a desire to improve lives and contribute positively to society.

As India celebrates National Startup Day, it stands at the cusp of a new era in entrepreneurship. The journey ahead is filled with both challenges and opportunities. But one thing is certain: the Indian startup ecosystem is a vibrant, dynamic force, poised to reshape the global economic landscape.

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Collaborative Innovation and Data Insights

The KMC Startup Awards, an initiative led by KMC Solutions in partnership with Philippine Startup Week 2023 and other key players, celebrated Uniquecorn Strategies for its inventive use of grassroots-level data in crafting influential marketing strategies. Dean Bernales, the strategic mind behind Uniquecorn Strategies, shared, “Understanding the depth and potential impact of grassroots data was pivotal,” said Dean Bernales, CEO of Uniquecorn Strategies. “In collaboration with Fourth Wall, a market research firm, we delved into these insights, uncovering unique socio-cultural behaviors. This formed the backbone of our data-driven PR strategy, highlighting Packworks as a key player in the FMCG sector’s push for a data-informed supply chain strategy.”

Sari IQ’s Role and the Strategy of Earned Media

At the heart of the campaign was the promotion of Sari IQ, a market intelligence tool devised by Packworks, providing key insights into consumer behavior from over 270,000 sari-sari stores throughout the Philippines. Uniquecorn Strategies implemented an earned media strategy, fostering a sense of urgency among FMCG companies about the critical insights Sari IQ offers. Bernales further explained their tactic, “We focused on creating compelling narratives, transforming data into stories that resonate with Packworks’ target B2B audience.” This approach, spanning print, online, and broadcast media, was carefully crafted to maximize exposure and impact while ensuring relevance and engagement by synchronizing with cultural events and economic issues.

Tactical Timing and Vigilant Monitoring

The campaign showcased a series of press releases, each thoughtfully timed to align with Philippine cultural events and economic issues, ensuring heightened newsworthiness and journalist interest. Notable insights included the exploration of Filipinos’ consumption patterns during various cultural festivities and the significant role of women in sari-sari store ownership. The campaign’s success was continually monitored through social listening tools, offering insights into media pickups, SEO effectiveness, and comparative media presence against competitors. This comprehensive strategy not only elevated Packworks’ message but also boosted its lead generation and sales strategy.

Also read: Frasers Hospitality and Adyen Forge Alliance, Revolutionizing Payment Experiences

Inspiration for Smaller Enterprises

Reflecting on the wider implications of their success, Bernales remarked, “Through this campaign, we demonstrated the power of small firms to compete with larger players using strategic communication and innovation.” This victory is more than just an accolade for Uniquecorn Strategies or Packworks; it stands as an inspiration for small and mid-sized companies in the Philippines, illustrating the significant impact of well-executed, data-driven PR campaigns in the competitive business arena.

Uniquecorn Strategies’ triumph at the KMC Startup Awards is a testament to the transformative potential of data-driven marketing and strategic communication. As they continue to innovate and lead, the marketing world eagerly awaits their next groundbreaking campaign.

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As of now, Lenskart has successfully established a strong presence in Singapore, with 70 stores already operational. This achievement is just the beginning. The company’s vision extends far beyond, targeting major Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia. In Singapore, Lenskart has made a remarkable impact – one in three people now wear glasses from Lenskart, a testament to the brand’s popularity and the quality of its products.

Furthermore, Lenskart isn’t just growing organically. The company is also looking at strategic acquisitions to bolster its presence in the region. A notable move in this direction was the acquisition of a majority stake in Owndays, a Japanese eyewear brand that also operates in Southeast Asia. This acquisition is a clear indicator of Lenskart’s commitment to expanding its market reach and enhancing its product offerings.

The expansion plan is backed by robust financial support. In a significant funding round, Lenskart raised $500 million from the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA). Additionally, it secured $100 million from Chryscapital. This influx of capital not only fuels the expansion but also brings in long-term investors who believe in Lenskart’s vision and growth trajectory.

Peyush Bansal, the co-founder and CEO of Lenskart, shared at Slush 2023, an annual startup and technology event, the company’s ambition to build a growing ecosystem, akin to the likes of e-commerce giant Amazon. Bansal’s vision is not just about expanding the number of stores but also about creating a sustainable and influential brand presence in the eyewear industry.

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The re-launch of OYO’s self-operated hotels, known as the ‘Managed by OYO‘ category, is a response to the evolving demands in the hospitality industry. By adopting a revenue-sharing model through annual to long-term contracts, OYO is not only expanding its portfolio but also providing a flexible and efficient business model for hotel operators and property owners. The company has initiated operations in 35 hotels and is actively seeking partnerships with real estate developers to identify suitable properties for this initiative.

Under this program, hotels will be tagged as ‘Managed by OYO’ on the company’s App and Website, signaling OYO’s active involvement in their operations. This branding strategy is aimed at assuring guests of the quality and service standards they can expect at these properties. Most of these hotels will be onboarded under OYO’s premium hotel offerings, such as Townhouse, Townhouse Oak, and Collection O, catering to the mid-market segment. The company’s focus is on high-traffic metros, including cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Kolkata, among others.

Anuj Tejpal, OYO’s Chief Merchant Officer, emphasized the program’s potential to create a win-win situation for all stakeholders involved – landlords, hotel operators, and travelers. This approach is in line with OYO’s aim to foster economic growth in communities through partnerships, offering hoteliers and property owners the opportunity to participate in this program. The positive responses from top hoteliers have encouraged the company to plan an expansion beyond the initial target of 200 hotels.

The revival of the self-operated hotel model by OYO is particularly significant, given the company’s previous decision to phase out contracts with property owners in 2020 due to profitability concerns. This resurgence indicates a strategic realignment of OYO’s business model, focusing on collaborative and quality-assured hotel management. Moreover, the company, led by Ritesh Agarwal, has resubmitted its Draft Red Herring Prospectus to SEBI, signaling a renewed focus on its Initial Public Offering (IPO) plans after earlier delays.

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Tagda Raho is a pioneering fitness program that combines traditional Indian equipment with modern training techniques.

This innovative approach aims to resurrect the essence of India’s rich physical culture. Dhoni, renowned for his exceptional leadership and fitness, expressed his belief in the concept, resonating with its intrinsic Indian identity. This investment underscores his commitment to promoting a healthier India by making this unique fitness style accessible across the country.

The brand, currently operational with training centers in Bangalore, is poised to launch its first center in Maharashtra this December. Additionally, Tagda Raho plans to broaden its reach to four to five more states in the coming year. This expansion strategy is a testament to the growing interest in fitness alternatives that are deeply rooted in Indian traditions.

Tagda Raho is globally recognized as the first fitness program to effectively blend traditional Indian equipment, such as the Gada, Mudgars, Vajra, and Sumtola, with modern training methodologies. This fusion not only activates muscles typically underutilized in conventional workouts but also emphasizes core strength, stability, and enhanced mobility. The program is especially beneficial for athletes seeking diverse exercise forms to maintain peak fitness and avoid injuries.

The unique approach of Tagda Raho has already garnered attention and credibility, being adopted by professional teams and institutions like the Lucknow Super Giants, Haryana Steelers, and the National Cricket Academy (NCA). This widespread acceptance underlines the program’s effectiveness and its appeal as a viable fitness option.

Rishabh Malhotra, the founder of Tagda Raho, expressed his enthusiasm for having Dhoni’s support. He emphasized that Dhoni’s dedication to fitness and nurturing homegrown brands aligns perfectly with their mission. Their goal is to empower healthier lifestyles and introduce a new dimension to Indian physical culture, not just in India but also on the international stage. The brand also boasts patented modular equipment, ensuring adaptability and customization for various fitness needs.

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The Investment Magnet

India’s fintech landscape has seen a meteoric rise, especially in the wake of the pandemic. The push towards digital financial services has not only been a necessity but a strategic move to capitalize on a market ripe for digital disruption. But as with any rapid growth, there are challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The numbers speak for themselves. In just the first half of a year, India’s fintech startups attracted a staggering $2 billion in investment. But what’s driving this influx of capital? The answer lies in the innovative solutions these companies bring to the table.

Take Razorpay, for instance. What began as a mere payment gateway has now blossomed into a comprehensive financial product suite. Their journey to achieving unicorn status, with a valuation of $3 billion in 2021, is a testament to the potential of fintech in India.

Similarly, Cashfree and Paytm have expanded their horizons, offering a plethora of services that cater to the diverse needs of the Indian populace.

Beyond Transactions

But it’s not just about payments. The fintech sector in India is multifaceted. Mswipe is venturing into the Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) space, while Axio is capitalizing on the e-commerce boom with checkout finance. The projected growth in digital payments, from $133 billion in 2022 to an estimated $153 billion in 2023, further underscores the sector’s potential.

A Nation’s Financial Awakening

Yet, beneath these impressive figures lies a deeper narrative. A story of a nation striving for financial inclusion, of startups bridging the credit gap that has long plagued India’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The heartening rise of UPI transactions, the democratization of financial products through the JAM trinity, and the projected growth of the wealthtech market to $237 billion by 2030 all paint a picture of a brighter financial future for India. India’s fintech industry’s market size is projected to reach approximately $150 billion by 2025. The total addressable market for the Indian fintech industry is estimated to be $13 trillion by 2025.

Navigating the Regulatory Maze

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. With rapid growth comes the inevitable scrutiny. Regulators are becoming more vigilant, and fintechs will need to tread carefully, ensuring compliance while continuing to innovate.

Investor Sentiments Revealed

The distribution of funding in the fintech sector also offers a glimpse into investor sentiment. Payments, capturing a 44% share of the total funding in 2021, emerged as the dominant fintech segment. This is indicative of the country’s digital transformation and the growing demand for digital payment solutions.

More Than Just Numbers

India’s fintech journey is not just about numbers and growth percentages. It’s about the transformation of a nation’s financial habits. The rise of digital lending platforms, insurtech solutions, and wealth management apps signifies a shift in how Indians perceive and interact with financial services. The traditional banking model, characterized by long queues and cumbersome paperwork, is giving way to seamless, digital-first experiences.

Roadblocks on the Digital Highway

While the growth trajectory is promising, challenges abound. Data security concerns, regulatory hurdles, and the need for financial literacy are pressing issues. Fintechs will need to prioritize user education, ensuring that the masses not only adopt digital solutions but do so with an understanding of the risks and benefits.

India on the Global Fintech Map

India’s fintech evolution has not gone unnoticed on the global stage. International investors are pouring in, recognizing the country’s potential to be a global fintech hub. Collaborations with global fintech giants, knowledge exchange programs, and the influx of foreign capital are setting the stage for India to be a frontrunner in the global fintech race.

Also read: Qashier Secures $10 Million in Series A Funding: Pioneering the Future of Fintech in Southeast Asia

India stands at the cusp of a fintech revolution. The road ahead is filled with challenges and opportunities. But with innovation, adaptability, and a customer-centric approach, India’s fintech sector is poised to redefine the global financial landscape. The world watches with bated breath as India charts its course in the digital financial realm.

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Passengers on Malaysia routes can relish Pak Nasser’s plant-based Nasi Lemak, while those travelling the Philippines can savour vegetarian Sisig. On select Indonesia flights starting from 22 July, travellers will be treated to two delectable vegan dishes – Nasi Rendang with assorted vegetables or Rendang with Coconut Rice. 

The airline’s catering arm, Santan, has ingeniously replaced animal protein like beef, chicken, and pork in traditional dishes with Green Rebel’s plant-based alternatives, ensuring meals retain their authentic taste and texture. 

Interestingly, the well-loved Malaysian dish, Nasi Lemak, gets an upgrade with basmati and wild purple rice, accompanied by Green Rebel Chick’n Chunks and a hearty serving of eggplant curry, French beans, and potatoes. Green Rebel’s bestselling Beefless Rendang features in the classic Indonesian dish of Rendang with coconut rice, while Nasi Rendang is served with the same along with white rice, cassava leaves, and green chilli sambal. 

Committed to sustainability and local flavour, the collaboration leverages Green Rebel’s advanced food technology to replicate the mouthfeel of eating meat, and an exclusive formulation of coconut oil, water, and natural vegan seasoning, mimicking the distinctive taste, aroma, and juiciness associated with animal protein. 

The collaboration with Green Rebel supports AirAsia Group’s commitment to align with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5-degree Celsius policy to minimise greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The airline’s strategic efforts include an annual reduction of 221 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per aircraft and a shift towards more plant-based products. 

With plant-based meat production promising significant savings in carbon emissions, water, land, and overall energy use, the collaboration also resonates with the rising trend of flexitarianism, a diet majorly composed of plant-based foods, in Asia. 

This update follows the recent formation of AirAsia brand co. by Capital A, the airline’s holding company, aiming to bolster AirAsia’s global brand reach and impact. 

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Anupam Pahuja, the newly appointed executive vice president and general manager for Asia Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East, will assist Gandhi in administering the headquarters. Pahuja’s expertise from growing global companies such as PayPal will be instrumental in propelling Nium’s ongoing growth. 

In its quest to nurture the wider fintech community in the region, Nium is keen to demonstrate its commitment to Singapore. It has announced plans to collaborate with public and private sectors to establish a Singapore centre committed to discovering, nurturing, and fostering ‘BizTech talent’ – a new breed of professionals adept at blending technical proficiency with business acumen. 

Prajit Nanu, Nium’s co-founder and CEO, expressed his vision for the company and gratitude for the support received from the Singapore government, investors, and clients. He said, “When I started Nium, I had big dreams for what it could be. This new headquarters will house our expanding regional team and will remain a welcoming space for entrepreneurs aspiring to address global challenges innovatively.” 

The news is based on the article published on marketech-apac.com. 

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Slice Group, founded in 2022, is a pioneer in offering CRM solutions that foster robust, efficient, and long-term relationships between brands, agencies, and influencers. The company’s platform furnishes a comprehensive suite of tools allowing brands and agencies to work with a larger number of creators without escalating the need for additional manpower. 

Following this seed funding, Slice Group has outlined a strategic roadmap that includes product refinement, accelerated platform development, and an aggressive sales strategy complemented by enhanced recruitment efforts. Their blueprint also entails the incorporation of advanced financial features, including invoice financing and a digital wallet for facilitating payments amongst brands, agencies, and content creators. 

At the helm of Slice Group are Jesse Bouman, the CEO, formerly head of innovation and technology at Mindshare Worldwide, and Nesha Hanzdima, the COO, founder of Indonesian production house Violad Creative Studio. Drawing on their significant experience in managing brand campaigns, they have built a platform addressing the inefficiencies of the creator economy. Their aim is to empower creators to make data-driven decisions and establish sustainable relationships with brands. 

Also read: Pilon’s Successful Top-up Funding: Amplifying Supply Chain Financing Innovations in Southeast Asia

In a rapidly digitalizing world where influencer marketing is becoming a mainstream channel for brands to reach audiences globally, Eddy Chan of Intudo Ventures emphasizes the necessity for localized market knowledge. He believes that Slice Group’s understanding of Indonesia’s creator economy will deliver significant value to both brands and creators. 

The positive sentiment is echoed by Aldi Adrian Hartanto, partner at Arise, who observes that creators typically grapple with classic informal economy issues, like access to financing and operational inefficiencies. Hartanto is confident that Slice Group’s product and leadership expertise can empower Indonesian creators at every scale, from micro to mega influencers. 

This news comes in the wake of Indonesia’s proactive attempts to attract global talent and investors through its impending golden visa programme, as reported by The Jakarta Post. The programme is expected to bring more job opportunities to the local market by luring talent in the areas of digitalization, health, research, and technology. 

This news piece is based on an article by marketing-interactive.com. 

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This latest round of undisclosed funding follows a triumphant seed round, wherein Pilon garnered a whopping USD 5.2 million. The funds will fuel Pilon’s mission to revolutionize the local business landscape by enhancing operations in the Philippines and scaling its innovative supply chain financing solutions.

Also Read: Breaking Stereotypes: The Imperative for Diverse Representation in Advertising 

Kaya Founders, an investment firm esteemed for its support of visionary entrepreneurs in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, places a strategic bet on Pilon. With a focus on digital firms capable of disrupting industries and transforming lives, Kaya Founders offers strategic counsel, resources, and mentorship to turbocharge growth.

Pilon’s Co-founder and CEO, Eddie Lee, shared his excitement about the successful funding round and the continued backing of Kaya Founders. He stated that the investment not only solidifies Pilon’s financial footing but also reaffirms their disruptive vision. The funds will be deployed to enrich Pilon’s digital product suite, broaden its reach in the Philippines and Cambodia, and venture into fresh territories like Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia.

To support its expansion, Pilon has assembled a dedicated Manila-based team to provide comprehensive assistance to partner companies. Pilon’s user-friendly features, such as live chat and introductory walkthroughs, promise a seamless experience for business owners, irrespective of their tech proficiency.

Kaya Founders’ partner, Lisa Gokongwei-Cheng, expressed faith in Pilon’s pioneering solutions, noting their potential to redefine transaction dynamics for individuals and businesses. With the fresh capital, Pilon is geared to boost its growth, widen its influence, and offer heightened convenience and efficiency to consumers and businesses.

Additionally, Pilon is making strides in integrating buyers from key industries in the Philippines, including Retail/Super Marts, Construction & Development, and the F&B sector. This strategic move is anticipated to reinforce Pilon’s market standing and promote synergistic alliances between buyers and suppliers.

Also Read: ChatHub Extension Revolutionizes AI Interaction, Integrates Multiple Chatbots 

Since its 2020 inception, Pilon has consistently facilitated digital transformation for suppliers, corporate buyers, and financial institutions. It has pioneered in digitizing business processes and promoting financial inclusion through optimized invoice financing. Notably, Pilon’s system has found success with Robinsons Bank and Universal Robina, part of the Gokongwei family conglomerate, one of the Philippines’ largest.

Robinson Bank’s president, Elfren Antonio S. Sarte, lauded Pilon’s solution for its efficiency and effectiveness, heralding it as a significant step in their innovation journey. As Pilon gears up to collaborate with other business units within the group, the future seems bright for this game-changing FinTech firm.

This news is based on a report by IANS.

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Over the ensuing three years, the lab is set to engineer solutions addressing labor scarcity in sectors like manufacturing and intralogistics, that pose significant hurdles to industry growth. The lab is particularly focused on crafting cutting-edge systems tailored to support Industry 5.0, featuring technologies such as grip-adjusting robots capable of handling fragile or potentially dangerous materials and smart sensing systems that can energize autonomous mobile robots.

The inception of this advanced robotics lab reflects another milestone in the collaborative efforts of NTU and Delta Electronics. The duo, in 2016, spearheaded the Delta-NTU Corporate Laboratory for Cyber-Physical Systems, which nurtured innovations in smart manufacturing and learning. It was expanded in 2018 to include a broader range of research activities.

The Cyber-Physical Systems Lab has since made remarkable strides, filing 17 patents, of which eight have been issued, and publishing over 200 papers in prestigious journals and conferences. The fruits of their labor have been adopted at scale across industries, comprising an autonomous logistics robot-driven smart navigation system and analytics technology that enhances learning effectiveness.

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This remarkable ascent wasn’t borne from a background steeped in tech entrepreneurship but rather, from the unique skills and vision of the brothers—one, a trained commercial pilot and the other, a graduate of the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT). Starting in a basement, they seized upon the escalating smartphone usage, predicting a parallel surge in demand for smartphone accessories. 

With key market players pricing their products on the higher end, the Khatri brothers perceived an opportunity for growth. While other brands marketed premium items at a premium price, Noise distinguished itself by offering top-tier products at more accessible rates. This approach swiftly resonated with the average consumer, catapulting Noise to prominence within the smartwatch sector in less than four years. 

By 2023, Noise had earned a place amongst the top 4 smartwatch brands—a testament to the brothers’ relentless pursuit of understanding their consumers’ needs and their commitment to constant product refinement. The brand’s success is also attributed to its diverse, affordable, and innovative product range, along with a strategic focus on performance marketing. 

Noise’s efforts were further bolstered by partnerships with prominent celebrities such as Taapsee Pannu, Rishabh Pant, and Virat Kohli, which created a buzz among potential consumers. Today, the success of Noise serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring D2C entrepreneurs, proving that determination, innovation, and customer focus can indeed challenge established industry giants. 

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