Bandung has previously been overlooked by many international investors and start-up firms, however in recent years the capital has become an attractive alternative to more congested locations, such as Jakarta. Since named the most creative city in West Java, it is no surprise that Bandung is a promising launchpad for start-ups. Many of Bandung’s up and coming entrepreneurs are focused on IT and technology, as well as the arts and the creative industries.
Domestically referred to as Indonesia’s Silicon Valley, Bandung is part of the “1000 Digital Startup National Movement” promoted by the Indonesian government. The fact that it is home to Indonesia’s largest technical university only adds to the talent resources available within the city. Bandung has also been promoted by UNESCO as part of its own Creative Cities Network, seeing a blooming fashion industry surface in the city.”
Bandung offers many start-up programs dedicated to nurturing new ventures in a bid to attract entrepreneurs. Funding is available, as is coaching and incubation opportunities, from a variety of locally developed programs. Some of these include the Startup Corner, Bandung Digital Valley, Startup Bandung and Indigo Creative Nation. With comfortable and widespread co-working spaces that enable new businesses to take off, Bandung is a foolproof destination for local and worldwide talent alike.