The "Baparekraf For Startup (BEKUP) 2024" program has entered its final stage, offering 24 selected digital startups from six cities in Indonesia the opportunity to present their ideas, innovations, and business developments in front of investors, mentors, and industry leaders at Demoday BEKUP 2024. This key event aims to widen market access, expand funding opportunities, and foster strategic networking for the participating startups.

In her opening remarks at the Demoday BEKUP 2024 held at the Movenpick Hotel, Jakarta, on November 4, 2024, the Vice Minister of Creative Economy (WamenEkraf), Irene Umar, expressed her hopes for the event’s positive impact on startups. "This event is not only about expanding access to markets and funding but also about building valuable strategic networks for startup founders," said Irene Umar. "The startup ecosystem in Indonesia needs a push to bring the country to the next level."

The BEKUP program, which began in 2016, has been instrumental in supporting the growth of digital startups in Indonesia. It provides startups with the necessary resources to enhance their capacity, gain knowledge, and develop critical skills to operate and scale their businesses. The theme for BEKUP 2024, "Fostering Startup Transformation to Build Economic Thrive," aligns with the rapid growth of the digital economy as one of the key drivers of Indonesia's economic expansion.

Of the 120 startups that applied for BEKUP 2024, 24 startups were selected to participate in Demoday BEKUP 2024 after an intensive 8-week mentoring process. These startups represent a diverse range of industries and are located across major Indonesian cities. During the program, participants were given opportunities to visit relevant industries, receive expert guidance, and refine their business strategies.

Irene Umar further emphasized that beyond funding and market access, Demoday BEKUP 2024 also aimed to strengthen the mindset and resilience of startup founders. She encouraged participants to always remember the core reasons they started their businesses. "Your 'why' is your driving force, the reason to keep pushing forward, even in challenging times," she added. Irene encouraged participants to maximize this opportunity to learn, build relationships, and play an active role in advancing Indonesia's digital economy.

The event also provided an opportunity for the Ministry of Creative Economy to reaffirm its commitment to supporting the country's startup ecosystem. "Building a startup is exciting, but it's also a difficult and challenging journey. The Ministry will always be here to support you. Let's move forward together towards Indonesia's bright future," said Irene.

In her remarks, Yuana Rochma Astuti, Director of Digital Economy Governance at the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf), highlighted the importance of startups in shaping Indonesia’s future economy. She expressed her hope that the BEKUP program would help these startups thrive in both local and global markets. "With innovation, creativity, and the courage to take risks, these startups have opened the door to new opportunities and changed how we interact with the digital world," she said.

Yuana also stressed the importance of enhancing support for the startup ecosystem to fully unlock its potential and create a lasting positive impact. "I hope our young generation can grow together and take concrete action through innovation, adaptation, and collaboration with various stakeholders to accelerate the economy, create jobs, and open up business opportunities across Indonesia," she added.

Demoday BEKUP 2024 also celebrated the achievements of outstanding startups by awarding several categories, including Top 1-3 Startups of BEKUP 2024, Most Progressive Startup, Most Impactful Startup, Most Favorite Startup, and Most Promising Idea. The event was also marked by business matching sessions and inspiring talkshows designed to provide participants with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in the startup technology space.

As the Indonesian startup ecosystem continues to grow and evolve, events like Demoday BEKUP 2024 play a crucial role in connecting emerging startups with the resources, networks, and expertise needed to succeed in an increasingly competitive global market.