Budi Rahardjo is a lecturer at the Department of Electrical Engineering, Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), as well as a technopreneur with a portfolio of technology companies, including Riset AI, which focuses on developing artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to support Indonesia’s digital economy transition. Riset AI’s products, such as computer vision systems and automated vehicle detection, reflect his contribution to advancing AI technology in today’s digital era. Prior to founding Riset AI, Budi established several other companies and invested in startups, demonstrating his extensive involvement in the technology ecosystem. In addition, as a writer, researcher, public speaker, and information security consultant, he provides valuable insights into the role of AI in transforming learning and fostering quality education in the digital age.

Prof. Dr. Elfahmi is a Professor at the School of Pharmacy and the Director of Research and Innovation at Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB). He founded EBM Scitech from his award-winning research on medicinal plants recognized by Indonesia’s Ministry of Health. Established to bridge academia and industry, the company has grown from a research initiative into a multidisciplinary enterprise offering R&D, consulting, and laboratory services for industries, SMEs, governments, and academic partners. Positioned as a collaborative innovation ecosystem, EBM Scitech co-creates scientifically rigorous and commercially viable solutions, particularly in natural and herbal products. By 2024, annual revenue reached nearly IDR 2.5 billion, reflecting steady growth and expanding partnerships. Beyond financial performance, its work in validated herbal products, pre-clinical studies, and certified reference materials enhances the credibility of Indonesia’s pharmaceutical sector, safeguards product quality, and advances the country’s competitiveness in herbal medicine and biotechnology.

Bell Living Lab | ITB
PT. Kurva Lonceng Khatulistiwa

Bell Living Lab is an Indonesian biomaterial startup founded in 2020, born from ITB research that transformed coffee waste into sustainable alternatives to plastics and leather. Using a patented bioweaving process, the company produces M-Tex®, a PETA-approved vegan leather, along with C-Foam and Kalpa Panels, offering biodegradable solutions that reduce pollution and resource use. Operating facilities in Bandung, Malinau, and Anyer, Bell Living Lab scaled from processing 500 kg of coffee waste monthly in 2020 to 26.5 tons in 2022, expanding into international markets across Asia-Pacific. Its inclusive model empowers local farmers with fair-trade sourcing and 10% higher incomes, while training ensures sustainable practices. Financially, revenues are projected to reach IDR 3.1 billion by 2025, supported by fourfold production growth and major efficiency gains. Recognized for sustainability and innovation, the company is pursuing USDA Biopreferred and B-Corp certifications, cementing its role as a leader in circular, community-driven biomaterials.

Algatek | ITB
PT Algatek Karbon Nusantara

Algatek is an Indonesian sustainability startup specializing in algae and plankton biotechnology combined with IoT to deliver innovative carbon capture solutions. Founded by a team of Bandung Institute of Technology experts, Algatek leverages native algae species to develop photobioreactors and bio-based derivatives, such as biosilica, biofertilizers, and bio-oils, for applications in energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, food, and environmental services including air pollution control, land bioremediation, and wastewater treatment. Aligning with Indonesia’s net-zero 2060 target and global climate goals, the company integrates R&D, patents, and government-backed carbon market participation, achieving rapid growth with revenues surging over 1700% in 2025.

TRUONG Ngoc Kiem — Ph.D., Director of VNU Technology and Innovation Park.

Mr. Nguyen Hoa Binh — Also known as “Shark Binh”, Mr. Nguyen Hoa Binh is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of NextTech Group and former student of the University of Engineering and Technology - VNU.

TechNexa — TechNexa is an automated lactic fermentation system designed to produce traditional Vietnamese pickled foods (such as pickled vegetables, eggplants, or shrimp) in a safe, hygienic, and efficient manner. It integrates biotechnology, IoT, and automation to shorten the fermentation time from several days to just 12–24 hours, while maintaining flavor consistency and food safety.

Inspirasien – Founded by Astriani Dwi Aryaningtyas, this healthtech platform provides support and advocacy for chronic illness patients, inspired by her experience as a cancer survivor.

Founded in 2023, Biomats PH pioneers locally developed bioprinters and sustainable bioinks for research and clinical applications, from drug testing to regenerative medicine. Its mission-driven team has earned recognition through SheLovesTech, Leave-A-Nest, and Technoplanter competitions, positioning it as a biotech innovator in the Philippines.

An AI and data startup founded in 2019, ISI develops CATCH-ALL, an AI-powered visual analytics platform for urban traffic management. Backed by multiple grants and global recognition from the UNDP, NVIDIA, and Intel, ISI has deployed solutions in several Philippine cities and expanded applications to workplace safety.

Check-in Me — A startup that digitizes visitor management through QR code check-in systems for businesses and institutions.

iNext Technology — A digital health company incubated at HCMUT, providing telemedicine and diagnostic systems to over 600 physicians nationwide.

Indefol — A clean energy company providing solar and hydro solutions for industrial clients across Asia. It has grown into a multinational enterprise.

SenseID Technology Pte Ltd | NTU

Innovator in magnetic sensing for real-time monitoring of insulation in high-voltage equipment

OZ-P (Peeryali Co.) – Organic onion oil startup with Thai-BISPA award.

Doctor N Meditech – Smart healthcare beds and cushions using Thai rubber.

Dr. Ba Maw – the country’s first Premier.

U Thant – the first Asian Secretary-General of the United Nations

General Aung San – the father of Myanmar’s independence

Dr. Prommin Lertsuridej – Former physician and political leader; now Secretary-General to Thailand’s Prime Minister.