Heaptalk, Jakarta — As global markets regain clarity and new leadership shapes major economies, East Ventures has reported robust growth throughout 2024. In more detail, its growth-stage portfolio companies outperformed regional averages with a remarkable 40% year-on-year revenue increase. The firm’s portfolio demonstrated financial resilience, with 70% of growth-stage companies achieving profitability and over 80% improving their EBITDA margins. Key contributors to this success include notable startups such as Traveloka, Sociolla, and Ruangguru, which have showcased strong fundamentals and adaptability in navigating economic uncertainties.
The current trend brings this year’s focus to invest
Looking ahead to 2025, East Ventures will sharpen its focus on several key sectors poised for growth:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
East Ventures anticipates a surge in AI-driven startups, particularly in Generative AI. By 2025, 25% of businesses are expected to adopt AI agents, projected to rise to 50% by 2027. This trend will fuel new efficiencies across various industries, positioning AI as a cornerstone of technological advancement.
- Healthcare Technology
The firm continues prioritizing healthcare innovations, underscored by initiatives like the Health Innovation Sprint Accelerator (HISA) 2024. Collaborations with Singapore’s National Health Innovation Centre have further cemented East Ventures’ commitment to leveraging AI for enhanced patient care and operational efficiency. Companies like MeshBio and Aevice Health are leading the charge in this sector.
- Climate Technology
Climate technology remains a critical area of investment. East Ventures’ ongoing efforts to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles were highlighted in its latest Sustainability Report. Initiatives such as the Climate Impact Innovations Challenge (CIIC) have attracted global attention, with top innovators receiving significant funding to pilot their solutions in Indonesia. Green-tech startups within East Ventures’ ecosystem, such as Rekosistem and Jejakin, continue to develop impactful solutions to reduce carbon emissions and optimize renewable energy use.
- Consumer Technology
East Ventures will focus on advancing e-commerce and customer experience automation. Startups like Cosmart are enhancing personalized shopping experiences and streamlining customer service through chatbot technology, meeting the growing demand for more innovative consumer solutions.
As the new year approaches, East Ventures has offered strategic advice to startup founders, emphasizing a pragmatic approach to business development and funding acquisition. The firm highlights that accessing funding will be more feasible if the founders leverage the robust ecosystem created through strong collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Founders are encouraged to avoid following fleeting trends and address real problems with solutions that create tangible impacts. The firm also advises focusing on their products’ unique strengths, executing strategies effectively, and demonstrating resilience. By maintaining these principles, startups can secure their place in the market, even amidst economic volatility.
