Bangkok--12 May--Inspire Communications
Successfully ended! Thailand and ASEAN's inaugural "Startup Thailand 2016" held under the concept of "Unite to Rise" to drive Thai economy was kicked off by The Ministry of Science and Technology, joining forces with 11 agencies from both public and private sectors. Participated by approximately 35,000 visitors, a 4-day inspiring event highlighted a series of keynote addresses, panel sessions and exhibition, boasting of having the largest number of visitors in Asia.
The event recorded approximately 35,000 online registration visitors, dividing into 31,000 online pre-registration and 4,000 walk-in registration, which is definitely regarded a huge success. This year's event could excellently achieve the objectives to bring together Thai startups under one roof to exchange business views and meet venture capitalists (VC) to further develop and expand their business. In addition, general public and a new generation of high energy visitors have a great opportunity to get an insight into startup business.
The last day of the event featured many interesting topics including a panel discussion on a topic of "Ecosystem for the development of Startup in Thailand" run by four talent panelists including Mr. Patai Padungthin, CEO and Founder of Builk and Director of Thailand Tech Startup Association, Mr. Shakrit Chanrungsakul, Founder of Fire One One and Wecosystem, Mr. Natee Saeng, CEO and Founder of Makerspace Thailand, and Ms. Sarica Apiwatthakakul, Director, Intermediaries Licensing and SME Financing Department, the Office of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) – all have an extensive experience in the startup industry, with Ms. Oranuch Lerdsuwankij, Co-Founder of Techsauce acting as the moderator.
Here's a recap of the panel discussion.
"The government places importance on startups and is committed to providing them with the best possible support in order to move Thailand towards 'Digital Economy', entering a new economic platform.
The government's support together with technology and seamless global connectivity, startups have grown exponentially and reach their target audience more easily. Besides innovative ideas and creative use of technology, funding is also crucial for startups to grow their businesses and achieve their goals. The Office of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), therefore, came up with an alternative financing channel called "Equity Crowdfunding" to help raise funds for innovative startups. Startup is not limited to young people. Everyone with a creative mindset can become a startup. It's all about the idea that can be further developed and branched out to new business and services. Once the brilliant idea perfectly met with venture capitalists (VC) and good business planning, it will definitely lead their ways to success."