Start-up iGrow, which focuses on organic agriculture, announced receiving funds from two venture capitalists (East Ventures and 500 Startups) and planned to expand outside Indonesia. While local expansion is still underway, they are also planning to explore livestock and market abroad. iGrow admitted to targeting Turkey as the best place to cultivate olives. Aside from Turkey, Japan is another expansion target.
Chief executive officer of iGrow, Andreas Sanjaya, who is also an alumnus of the Faculty of Computer Science of Universitas Indonesia said that his team has connected the three stakeholders in the agriculture business: market, skills, and capital. “This model comprehensively allows unutilized land for organic plant cultivation, and it also enables the financial empowerment of local farmers,” mentioned Andreas.
Previously, Andreas Sanjaya founded a start-up named Badr Interactive, Inc, an information and technology service. In addition, as a start-up incubator, they also actively participate in the development of new start-ups.
Due to his dedication, Andreas received the Inspirational Alumnus of Universitas Indonesia Award in 2019. He said, “I will never forget the Faculty of Computer Science of Universitas Indonesia. It’s like a second home to me, a place where I opened my eyes to become a better person each day. I learned a lot here.”
Ref: https://www.cnnindonesia.com/teknologi/20160624152357-185-140702/startup-pertanian-igrow-raih-investasi-dari-dua-pemodal