In 2024, Startup Bandung is celebrating its tenth anniversary as one of the key players in Indonesia's startup ecosystem. Founded in 2014, this community has grown to include more than 100 tech startups, spanning sectors like aquaculture and digital media. The goal was always clear: to be a space for entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and innovate together.

According to Grahadea Kusuf, the community's chairman, technology has a broad application. “We can enable technology in various fields. For example, eFishery in aquaculture, or even music,” he explains. This mindset has allowed Startup Bandung to become a vital hub for innovation, where technology is used to solve real-world problems.

To mark the milestone, Startup Bandung hosted an event titled "Startup Bandung Satu Dekade" at eFishery's headquarters. The event was open to the public and saw over 700 participants from cities like Malang, Yogyakarta, and even the UK. The event featured talks and networking sessions aimed at sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration.

One of the highlights was the session "Start Up: Past, Present, Future." Speakers included Adi Panuntun, CEO of Sembilan Matahari, and Budi Rahardjo, a professor at STEI ITB. The session covered essential startup themes, such as innovation, networking, and overcoming failure.

Andri Yadi from eFishery also shared insights into the company's growth. He discussed the importance of constant innovation, especially in the evolving aquaculture sector. “Innovation is key to staying ahead and driving progress,” he said, highlighting the role of technology in transforming industries.

Networking was another significant topic discussed at the event. Allan Prakosa from IndonesiaRE and Budi Rahardjo both emphasized how building relationships is crucial to success. “Building connections and collaborating with others opens up endless opportunities,” said Prakosa.

The event also showcased various booths with food, drinks, and health products, further promoting inclusivity. It was a reminder that technology isn’t just for techies—it's for everyone, and its benefits should be shared widely.

Looking ahead, Dea, another leader in the community, expressed hopes for expanding Startup Bandung's influence. She sees potential in spreading the community’s model to other cities like Yogyakarta and Ternate. “Our ultimate goal is to make a social impact and encourage collaboration across the country,” she said.

The journey of Startup Bandung over the last decade is proof of how community, innovation, and inclusivity can drive growth. As the ecosystem continues to evolve, so does the potential for future success stories to emerge from this vibrant network.

DETIK