Smart Axiata Helps Accelerate Cambodian Startup Community
Local mobile phone operator Smart Axiata has formed a partnership with The Asia Foundation, an international development NGO, to foster innovation and creativity among Cambodian tech startups.
The venture is based on the foundation’s TekHub, which offers office space, networking and mentoring opportunities, as well as business management coaching. The Asia Foundation's country representative, Silas Everett, said the NGO recognizes the importance that tech startups will play not only in Cambodia’s economic growth but also in the prosperity of Cambodian society. “Our partnership with Smart Axiata is one of the commitments we are making to help accelerate Cambodia’s startup community and promote positive social change,” said Everett.
Thomas Hundt, CEO of Smart Axiata, stated that the partnership reflects Smart’s continuous involvement in digital innovation and technopreneur initiatives toward the development of a thriving digital ecosystem in Cambodia. “By utilizing the space and mentorship offered by TekHub, we hope to encourage more Cambodians to sustain their entrepreneurial mindset and realize their dreams,” said Hundt.
The partnership with TekHub follows Smart’s support of The Asia Foundation’s Let’s Read! E-Books for Cambodian Children program. TekHub currently supports three local startups – Codingate, a software development company; WEdushare, a scholarship opportunity-sharing platform; and Tao Ventures, a social media strategy consulting firm.
Smart currently plays a key role in developing Cambodia’s information and communications technology sector and digital ecosystem. In recent months, Smart has increased its involvement in organizing, supporting, and sponsoring initiatives related to technopreneurship and digital startups. Last month, Smart launched SmartStart, a young innovator program, to enable aspiring young entrepreneurs to develop their tech ideas.