On February 2025, the ASEM SMEs Eco-Innovation Center, endorsed by the ASEAN Coordinating Committee on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and funded by the ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation Program, published a report examining deep tech entrepreneurship in the ASEAN+3 countries with a focus on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study investigates the deep tech ecosystem, startups, and policies in the region, aiming to explore their potential to drive innovation for sustainable development.
As stated by the report, DeepTech entrepreneurship has gained global attention, particularly for its ability to address grand challenges through technological advancements in areas like AI, clean energy, and biotechnology. The study highlights that while APT countries have made strides in nurturing deep-tech startups, challenges such as limited access to funding and a shortage of skilled talent remain. However, the potential for deep tech to contribute to SDGs is significant, with several success stories already emerging from the region. The report then identifies key recommendations for fostering deep tech entrepreneurship. These include harmonizing definitions of deep tech startups to improve policy coherence, enhancing talent development programs, boosting public-private collaboration through matching funds, and creating a more supportive regulatory environment. Additionally, expanding infrastructure and fostering international collaboration are essential steps to strengthen deep tech ecosystems across the region.
By addressing these challenges and leveraging deep tech’s potential, APT countries can create a more sustainable future through innovation. To find more information, refer to the full report.
Source: INSME Secretariat
