Trends shaping South-east Asia's startup ecosystem growth

Pinn Lawjindakul

Covid-19 continues to have significant humanitarian and economic consequences regionally. As the world mobilises itself for recovery, one silver lining is the accelerated digitalisation taking place between societies and businesses. This in itself has not only inspired founders and budding entrepreneurs, but is also catalysing efforts by industries to create new business models and categories via technology-led disruption.

As the world is embracing the digitally influenced new normal, South-east Asia is now under the microscope for startup investments, as evidenced by startup funding in the region doubling in 2021. This upwards trajectory is projected to only continue; for investors identifying ripe areas of growth, it is key for them to understand the trends happening in South-east Asia and how they tie into creating new offerings to cater to the region's booming consumer market.