MANILA, PHILIPPINES — FedEx Express (FedEx), a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. and one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, has announced the Winner of its 2024 Small Business Grant Contest (SBGC) TM in Asia Pacific. Three other companies were recognized with Special Mentions. The four companies from Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Singapore will share a prize pool of $ 69,000, each receiving a grant to accelerate their business in the region and beyond.
This is the third year that FedEx is collaborating with Forbes Asia to identify rising startups from the Forbes Asia 100 to Watch list. A panel of judges from FedEx and Forbes Asia selected the finalists from among the region’s most outstanding startups and small businesses across a broad spectrum of industries. Four companies stood out with their remarkable vision and scalable business ideas.
The Winner received a grand prize worth $ 30,000:
- Singapore: Tan Min-Han, Founder and CEO of Lucence (Biotechnology & Healthcare) – Lucence is a precision oncology startup developing non-invasive tests that aim to accurately diagnose cancer.
The following three small businesses were accorded Special Mentions and awarded a cash prize of US$13,000 each:
- Malaysia: Kamarul A Muhamed, Founder and Group CEO, Aerodyne (Enterprise Technology) – Aerodyne is a drone-based enterprise solutions provider. The company’s autonomous drones can spray crops, inspect power lines, or monitor city streets.
- Indonesia: Larry Ridwan, Founder and CEO, Fresh Factory (Logistics & Transportation) – Fresh Factory is an integrated cold chain fulfillment company specializing in storing and delivering chilled, frozen, and dry goods.
- Philippines: Brian Cu, Cofounder and CEO, SariSuki (Agriculture) – SariSuki is a social e-commerce startup that sells groceries through its website and app, aiming to transform the Philippines’ retail landscape.
“Supporting small businesses ultimately opens new possibilities for the economic development of communities all around the world. That’s why we are so passionate about nurturing entrepreneurship and empowering small businesses in the region,” said Kawal Preet, President of FedEx Express for Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa. “This year’s applicants exemplify the spirit of innovation that is shaping the future of business. It’s so exciting to see how these agile innovators are developing solutions that directly impact local communities as well as addressing wider global needs.”
First launched in the US in 2012, the FedEx SBGC now covers 31 international markets across Asia Pacific, Europe, and Latin America. For more information about the contest, please visit the official website here.
