Telkomsel held the NextDev Summit 2026, highlighting AI integration as a key strategy to improve startup efficiency (09/04).

The program, now in its 11th year, carries the theme “Unleashing AI Impact” in response to global technology industry dynamics.

It reinforces the company’s commitment to encouraging digital solutions that address real needs in society and industry.

Telkomsel Positions NextDev as Key Digital CSR Initiative

Telkomsel stated that NextDev is a major pillar of its Corporate Social Responsibility program focused on digital society and technology development.

VP Corporate Communications & Social Responsibility Abdullah Fahmi said the company aims to ensure that developed technologies bring real benefits to technopreneurs.

“NextDev this year places special emphasis on injecting AI capabilities into every business proposal submitted by participants,” he said.

AI Adoption Becomes Central to Startup Development

Telkomsel considers artificial intelligence as an essential tool to accelerate impact, rather than just a technology trend.

The integration of AI is expected to speed up product validation and contribute economically at both national and global levels.

This step is seen as important amid weakening technopreneur funding conditions in Southeast Asia.

Startups are expected to improve competitiveness through efficiency in coding processes and globally standardized product implementation.

Manager CSR Education and Public Community Development Gumilar Henda Nugraha Ali said AI integration is not merely an additional feature.

“We evaluate holistically how digital products adopt AI, from coding to implementation that meets global standards,” he said.

Rigorous Selection Process Produces 10 Finalists

The selection process began in September last year, attracting around 270 applicants.

Participants were filtered down to 200, then 18, and finally 10 selected finalists.

These finalists have operated their products for one to two years and already have active users.

Their business models include AI-based CCTV detection, financial solutions via WhatsApp, and digital tax consulting services.

Telkomsel also evaluates participant commitment and product value growth during the incubation phase.

Program Offers Global Exposure and Collaboration Opportunities

Participants joined roadshows in Medan, Bandung, Makassar, and Bali, followed by orientation, bootcamps, and benchmarking sessions with technology companies such as Meta.

Winners gain access to Telkomsel’s digital ecosystem and opportunities for international benchmarking in global technology hubs, depending on business relevance.

Over 11 years, the program has produced 162 alumni from 6,798 applicants.

Finalists also have opportunities to collaborate with various Telkomsel business units.

PHOTO: TELKOMSEL/DETIK

This article was created with AI assistance.

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