On May 30, the KoreaTechDesk Virtual Demo Day held its second edition. It featured three enterprising South Korean startups that presented their innovative solutions to two prominent international investors. Daniel Csontos, Fintech Engagement Lead at SC Ventures Hong Kong, a business unit under Standard Chartered, and Iskander Haouam, Venture Builder and Investments Manager at Namal Impact Investment Capital in Saudi Arabia, led the session. They gave the startups valuable feedback on their pitches and global expansion strategies.
Meet the Investors
Daniel Csontos excels in fostering innovation and investing in disruptive financial technologies. With over 12 years of experience across Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Singapore, he specializes in strategic partnerships, corporate innovation, and venture investing. Fluent in Hungarian, English, and Mandarin Chinese, Daniel adeptly navigates both Chinese and Western business landscapes, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.
Iskander Haouam, a fintech enthusiast since 2011, brings extensive experience from diverse industries, including banking and telecommunications. At Namal Impact Investment Capital, he leverages his skills in business development strategy, customer experience, relationship management, risk management, innovation, and finance. Iskander’s ability to drive growth and innovation makes him a formidable mentor for aspiring startups.
The Innovative Startups
- SkalePlus (Content/E-commerce): SkalePlus has developed a dynamic platform dedicated to empowering businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs on their path to global success. With a mission to simplify cross-border expansion and cultivate a vibrant global community, SkalePlus provides extensive resources, including legal services, accounting, office space, staffing, marketing, product development, product design, and business consulting.
- MF Construction & Robotics (Technology/Robotics): This cutting-edge tech startup is revolutionizing the construction industry with innovative drones and robots designed to replace human workers in hazardous tasks. Specializing in automating dangerous jobs such as painting and window cleaning on construction sites, MF Construction & Robotics enhances safety and efficiency, ensuring high-quality and timely project completion.
- Transpify (Content Creation/AI): Transpify’s platform, Viralme, is set to transform the landscape of content creation with its advanced AI technology that automates the tedious video editing process. By adding captivating hook effects, seamlessly integrating sound effects, and enhancing both video and audio quality, Viralme ensures that every video shines with professional polish. Currently, in its beta testing phase, Viralme invites creators from all walks of life to experience the future of video editing.
In-Depth Discussions and Feedback
During the event, the startups presented their pitch decks and answered poignant questions from Daniel Csontos and Iskander Haouam about their business models, revenue generation, regulatory compliance, and global expansion plans.
When asked by Daniel Csontos about global expansion strategies, Skaleplus co-founder Tyler Sahib discussed plans to enter the North American market, starting with connecting with the Korean American community and expanding to Silicon Valley. “We have connected with lawyers there as well. Also, we are not limiting to Korean-speaking people in the USA; we are also targeting people in Silicon Valley in North America,” he said.
Iskander Haouam inquired about MF Construction & Robotics’s unique selling proposition (USP) and compliance with drone regulations, particularly in Saudi Arabia. Founder Egor Ali emphasized the company’s precision, automation, and ability to navigate regulatory hurdles, including obtaining necessary permits. “Regulations are a challenge in all countries, including Saudi Arabia, and we plan to work with government authorities on this. Since drone permits take time and money, we include potential expenses in our customer offerings,” Egor informed. “Our service aims to be more approachable, better performing, and precise than existing competitors.”
Transpify co-founder Furqan Ali was asked about Viralme’s features, future advanced options, business and revenue models, and strategies for content filtering, especially in competition with major AI players like OpenAI. The investors also delved into long-term visions and the ethical landscape of AI-driven content creation.
Overall, Daniel Csontos and Iskander Haouam were impressed with the innovative startup founders. The startups faced multiple challenging questions about their services and received advice on improving their presentations and global expansion business strategies.
Looking Ahead: KoreaTechDesk Virtual Demo Day
The KoreaTechDesk Virtual Demo Day strives to showcase the immense potential of Korean startups to disrupt industries and solve pressing challenges on a global scale. Launched in April 2024, this monthly feature will continue to highlight innovations by both South Korean and international startups. The next Virtual Demo Day will be held in June 2024 (the exact date will be announced soon).
KoreaTechDesk Virtual Demo Day provides an excellent opportunity for Korean startups to showcase their innovations, connect with mentors, experts, and investors, and pave the way for global expansion.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to join the vibrant KoreaTechDesk community and unlock your startup’s potential. Submit your application today by visiting the Virtual Demo Day page and participate in the next event, where ideas take flight and global opportunities await.
For more information and to stay updated on the event, visit KoreaTechDesk & fill up the application.
Keep tab on latest news in the Korean startup ecosystem & follow us on LinkedIN, Facebook, and Twitter for more exciting updates and insights.
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