Femtech: When Women Become Innovative and Technology-Savvy
In general, femtech refers to software, diagnostics, products, and services that leverage technology to support women’s health. The femtech sector focuses on women’s entire life experiences. It includes innovations in menstrual products, period care, fertility, and birth control. The industry also addresses menopause, chronic conditions, hormonal disorders, and pelvic health. Additionally, it covers pregnancy, post-pregnancy, breastfeeding, sexual well-being, and general health care.
Werner Vogels, VP Chief and CTO of Amazon Web Services predicts that in 2024, the femtech trend will experience a surge. This boom is related to the increased awareness of women’s healthcare services supported by technological advancements. He said this trend will mark a turning point in women’s healthcare services by providing more comprehensive patient health data.
The Growth of Femtech in Indonesia and the Role of the SheHacks Program
The growth of femtech startups in Indonesia had risen since the COVID-19 pandemic when health technology became more attractive to the public due to easier access. Those issues sparked awareness and demand for technological solutions, especially those that can help women tackle health and wellness issues.
Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, through its SheHacks program, facilitates Indonesian women to innovate in technology to bridge gender gaps in the economy, education, and health. Participants receive guidance from industry experts, mentoring, and partnership opportunities with the government, private sector, and media. The all activities are online and open to all Indonesian women, whether they are just developing ideas or already have a startup.
Startup Magazine says femtech startups are experiencing rapid growth in Southeast Asia. The Femtech Association of Asia reported that by 2024, the femtech industry market value in Southeast Asia will reach IDR 97.8 trillion. It indicates Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia’s large population, has an immense market potential for the femtech industry.
Femtech Startups in Indonesia: DonAsi and Women’s FIT CHOICE
Among Indonesia’s rapidly growing femtech startups are DonAsi and WOMEN’S FIT CHOICE, alums of SheHacks. DonAsi is a one-stop solution that addresses new mothers’ challenges in providing exclusive breastfeeding for their babies. Through SheHacks, DonAsi has been able to turn planned ideas into reality.
Unlike DonAsi, WOMEN’S FIT CHOICE focuses on AI-based solutions to improve reproductive health services for Indonesian women. Afifa Alifia, founder of WOMEN’S FIT CHOICE, shared that mentors provided many valuable insights for the company. With advice and input from experienced industry experts, Afifa found solutions to the challenges faced by women’s FIT choices.
Between 2020 and 2024, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, through the SheHacks program, successfully incubated the growth of dozens of startups founded by Indonesian women. It proves that women can also succeed in business, especially in technology. This fact breaks the stigma that women do not belong to careers in the tech world, which has long been male-dominated.
The positive trend of femtech growth is expected to motivate other women to overcome existing limitations. As more women enter and innovate in tech, they are expected to create impactful solutions. These solutions are hoped to benefit not only women but also society at large.
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Written by Diyah Trisasmita
