Discovery/Shift recently announced the launch of DSLaunchpad AI, which is known as Indonesia’s premier AI startup incubator.

The organization has initiated registration for the six-week program, targeting AI startups with less than US$500,000 in funding and fewer than 10 employees, with at least one Indonesian team member, focusing on ideas using technologies like Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Robotics, Computer Vision, or Generative AI.

Selected startups will receive mentorship from prominent figures in the Indonesian tech startup ecosystem, including On Lee (CEO at GDP Labs), Risman Adnan (Digital Tech Director at Kalbe), Andrias Ekoyuono (Chief of AI at kumparan), and Hokiman Kurniawan (CEO at Meeting.ai).

Discovery/Shift Managing Partner Rama Mamuaya emphasized the importance of having experienced mentors in the program, stating, “We are very selective with our mentors and aim for a high standard of achievement rather than just storytelling and public speaking skills.”

Discovery/Shift, initially a tech media platform called DailySocial, has already invested in one startup and aims to use the program to explore more investment opportunities.

In the future, Discovery/Shift plans to collaborate with various organizations relevant to AI growth, from venture capital firms to chipset manufacturers.

According to Mamuaya, the adoption of AI is expected to become commonplace in the near future, with every industry utilizing it.

Corporations Leading the AI Revolution

Mamuaya highlighted the significant trend of corporations taking the lead in adopting AI, particularly in industries like banking, media, and entertainment in Indonesia.

He also noted a surprising trend where investments in AI companies remain low, with most companies relying on existing AI products rather than investing in smaller AI startups.

Challenges and Talent in AI Adoption in Indonesia

Mamuaya pointed out that some Indonesian businesses face challenges in AI adoption due to a lack of understanding of their own business processes. However, companies familiar with AI tend to focus on detailed implementation and process automation.

Regarding talent in Indonesia, Mamuaya mentioned that while there may be a shortage of highly specialized talents like data scientists, the country is focused on applicative AI rather than core technology development.

Overall, DiscoveryShift’s initiative aims to bridge the gap between corporations and startups in the AI space, paving the way for greater collaboration and innovation in Indonesia.

Image Credit: Discovery/Shift

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