The collaboration between Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) and PT Pupuk Kaltim came to fruition with the successful staging of the "Innovative Startup Demo Day" in Surabaya on December 4, 2024. This event was a follow-up to the startup mentoring program initiated by ITS’s Incubator and Innovative Business Services (ILBI). Four selected startups were given a unique opportunity to showcase their innovations and pitch their business ideas to potential investors.

These startups, including Jokeen Rekayasa Energi, Cekka Studio, 3D Expert, and Smart Screen Dismore, received a boost from Pupuk Kaltim, which contributed Rp 50 million to each startup to assist in their business development. This funding was part of a larger effort to foster innovation and business growth, particularly in the tech and renewable energy sectors.

At the Demo Day, the startups presented their most valuable products (MVP) to investors from various sectors, including the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN) and alumni entrepreneurs from ITS. Baroto Tavip Indrojarwo, Senior Manager at ILBI ITS, emphasized the importance of aligning business development with investor expectations. The event marked a significant milestone in fostering innovation within Indonesia’s technology and startup ecosystems.

Jokeen Rekayasa Energi focuses on providing renewable energy solutions to underserved areas, while Cekka Studio develops agel fiber-based products to empower women in the Madurese community. 3D Expert specializes in construction, architecture, and interior design services, and Smart Screen Dismore offers innovative retail screen products and vending machines that eliminate the need for IT maintenance.

The collaboration also reflects Pupuk Kaltim’s commitment to supporting the growth of Indonesia’s innovative startup community. Eko Cahyo Dewi Oktori, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Pupuk Kaltim, expressed his pride in the partnership and stressed the value these products bring to society and the economy.

The Demo Day served as a platform for these startups to connect with potential investors and scale their businesses. With more such initiatives planned in the future, the cooperation between ITS, Pupuk Kaltim, and the startup ecosystem continues to pave the way for technological innovation and economic growth in Indonesia.