Phnom Penh – On 1st September 2023, up to 200 participants gathered at the Cambodia University of Technology and Science (CamTech) to witness the SmartSpark+ Incubation Program 2023 Final Pitch.
Smart Axiata, organized in collaboration with Impact Hub Phnom Penh to co-create the new edition of SmartSpark, which is “SmartSpark + Incubation Program,” is a ten-week incubation program that is a launchpad for early-stage impact-driven businesses that contribute to making Cambodia a more sustainable and inclusive country. Through the use of Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT), they could strengthen, scale, or optimize the impact.
Check out more information about the SmartSpark+ Incubation Program here!
SmartSpark+ participants benefit from weekly masterclasses and 1:1 mentoring sessions tailored to their needs, guided by dedicated mentors from the program. These mentors bring expertise and experience, empowering participants to refine their innovative solutions and business acumen.
The program culminates in a chance for participants to pitch their innovative solutions to the public, with the opportunity to win a $5,000 cash prize as seed funding to develop their prototype further.
During the Final Pitch, ten startups showcased their prototypes aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 (Quality Education), 5 (Gender Equality), 8 (Economic Growth), 9 (Innovation), or 10 (Reducing Inequality) through the use of Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT).
“It’s a great pleasure to witness the thriving entrepreneurial community in our society. Smart has continuously played a significant role in nurturing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Cambodia, acknowledging its paramount importance as a catalyst for sustainable digital and social development. Moving forward, our commitment remains steadfast in providing continued support to the entrepreneurship system.” – Ms. Srey Oeun CHEM, Head of Corporate Affairs at Smart Axiata.
“I am truly delighted to be a part of this incredible and impactful journey. Together with our dedicated ten teams, we’ve witnessed their relentless commitment to developing prototypes and products in just three months. None of this would have been possible without the support and trust of our respected partners and sponsors. Their belief in our vision, investment in our startups, and collaborative efforts have resulted in the success of this program today.”- Ms. Sivgech Tang, Program Manager of Impact Hub Phnom Penh.
The final pitch concluded with three winning teams. The winner is Rean&Play Studio, dedicated to helping children of Cambodia to learn while having fun and integrating the mindset of “Learning is Fun” into young minds in their early stages. The team will receive $5,000 of funding to support their prototype further, followed by additional post-program support from Impact Hub Phnom Penh & Smart Axiata.
“Participating in this program, I have learned much about entrepreneurship and how I can turn our dreams into reality with program support. Being selected as one of the SmartSpark+ winners has been an unexpected and exciting achievement, especially considering that we were at a very early stage compared to other teams already launching their products in the market. In the future, we aim to use the prize to develop our game and advance our startup. Lastly, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our program peers for being part of this incredible journey with us.” – Oeng Eavheang, Co-founder of Rean & Play Studio.
CONSA Tech: Recognized with the “Best Innovative Idea” award, CONSA Tech offers a comprehensive suite of technical and technology solutions tailored to the cosmetics and food industry, from product research and development to staffing solutions and packaging design.
Bondoul: Earning the “Best Performing Team” award helps university students gain practical experience in the shortest time to prepare for their career field through paid internships.
Overall, the Final Pitch of the SmartSpark+ Incubation Program hit the mark, spotlighting ten startups that propel Cambodia toward a more sustainable and inclusive future using Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT).
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