On 1 December 2025, Mega Prawita, Managing Director of KUMPUL, joined a panel at STARTUP TALKS titled Bridging Innovation – Strengthening Indonesia–Europe Startup Ecosystem Collaboration. The discussion, hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, focused on improving connections between startups in Indonesia and Europe. During the session, Mega highlighted the role of KUMPUL in helping startups access global markets through structured programs, mentorship, and cross-border networks.
Indonesia’s startup ecosystem is growing rapidly. According to the Startup Genome Report 2025, there are over 12,000 startups in Indonesia with a combined market value of around USD 50 billion. However, only 5% of these startups have successfully entered international markets. The panel stressed that institutional support, such as the programs facilitated by KUMPUL, is critical to helping startups overcome regulatory barriers, secure international funding, and connect with networks abroad.
Challenges for Indonesian Startups Entering Europe
Accessing European markets remains a significant challenge. The World Bank Doing Business 2024 report shows that export and import procedures can add 15–20% to a startup’s initial costs. These barriers are not just financial; they also include understanding market rules, building distribution networks, and complying with local regulations.
Research by the OECD 2023 shows that only about 12% of Southeast Asian startups are involved in cross-border research or innovation partnerships. This gap highlights the need for structured collaboration, such as mentoring programs and international accelerators, which KUMPUL helps facilitate to prepare Indonesian startups for global expansion.
Opportunities in Indonesia’s Digital Economy for Global Collaboration
Indonesia’s digital economy offers a key opportunity for collaboration. According to Google, Temasek, and Bain Digital Economy Report 2025, Indonesia’s digital economy is expected to reach USD 250 billion by 2025, driven by e-commerce, fintech, and local SaaS services. KUMPUL can use this growth to create joint learning programs, research partnerships, and innovation exchanges with European startups.
Cross-border accelerator programs that combine European mentoring with local funding have shown measurable results. Pilot programs in Singapore and Germany reported a 40% improvement in startups’ readiness for international markets within two years. KUMPUL serves as a connector, helping Indonesian startups take advantage of these opportunities in practical ways.
Strategies for Strengthening Indonesia–Europe Startup Collaboration
In her session, Mega highlighted the importance of stronger institutional linkages, structured cross-border initiatives, and deeper collaboration among incubators, accelerators, and ecosystem enablers to address the gaps that still hinder Indonesian startups from scaling beyond domestic markets. She also underscored how Indonesia’s expanding digital economy opens clearer opportunities for cooperation with Europe through shared learning, research-driven partnerships, and more accessible two-way market pathways.
At KUMPUL, these strategies are implemented using a practical, data-driven approach. Mega concluded, “With structured approaches and strong institutional support, Indonesian startups can enter global markets while continuing to build domestic innovation.”
Grow Locally, Expand Globally with KUMPUL
As Indonesia’s leading entrepreneurship ecosystem enabler, KUMPUL accelerates growth by connecting entrepreneurs with strategic networks, exclusive resources, and expert insights.
We strengthen local communities while facilitating two-way global market access, helping international businesses tap into Indonesia’s dynamic ecosystem, and empowering local entrepreneurs to expand globally.
Through impactful collaborations with key industry players, KUMPUL enables entrepreneurs to scale efficiently, compete globally, and create meaningful impact.
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