JAKARTA – PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BNI), through its venture capital subsidiary BNI Ventures, launched its inaugural program, BNV Arcade, during a grand launching event at Menara BNI in Jakarta on Friday (July 12, 2024).

In partnership with key players in the startup ecosystem, including KUMPUL.ID, Block 71, and Tech In Asia, BNI Ventures is deepening its engagement within the BNI Group ecosystem, which spans venture capital and startup development.

The vision behind BNV Arcade aligns with BNI’s roadmap towards Indonesia Emas 2045, aiming to accelerate startup growth through enhanced digitalization. The initiative aspires to increase the entrepreneurship rate from 3% this year to 8% by 2045.

BNV Arcade is designed to foster collaboration in innovation and business growth within the BNI Group ecosystem, providing entrepreneurs with access to essential resources, networks, and funding opportunities.

BNI Ventures CEO, Eddi Danusaputro, stated, "As a corporate venture capital firm, BNI Ventures has extensive access to innovative startups, founders, and digital talent. BNV Arcade is a tangible step towards creating a platform that allows startups to develop innovative ideas that can be integrated into the BNI Group ecosystem. This program aims to strengthen the synergy between startups and BNI Group."

BNV Arcade incorporates a gamification concept with three main initiatives: Match Arc, Axel Arc, and Forge Arc. "Match Arc focuses on enhancing business continuity between startups and BNI Group's business units. Axel Arc is an accelerator program that includes mentoring and market access, while Forge Arc is dedicated to developing venture builders," Eddi explained.

BNI's Director of Technology & Operations, Toto Prasetio, emphasized that accelerating technology and digitizing business processes is critical to maintaining BNI Group's competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market. He highlighted that through BNI Ventures' synergy, investment, and innovation initiatives, opportunities for collaboration with innovative startups across various operational aspects can be greatly expanded.

"Innovation programs like BNV Arcade have the potential to bring cutting-edge technology into BNI Group. The innovations introduced through BNV Arcade could significantly enhance BNI Group's operational efficiency," Toto remarked.

BNI’s Director of Finance, Novita Widya Anggraini, expressed pride in the strategic role that BNI Ventures plays in supporting the company’s broader goals. She noted that BNV Arcade is well-positioned to create relevant, innovative solutions that add value for stakeholders.

"As part of BNI Group, we recognize and appreciate the strategic role BNI Ventures plays in supporting BNI Group's transformation and the achievement of its Corporate Plan, in line with our Vision and Mission. BNV Arcade not only generates relevant innovative solutions but also creates added value for stakeholders.

Through this collaborative approach, we can quickly respond to market dynamics, identify profitable investment opportunities, and manage risks more effectively.

Ultimately, these efforts will enhance BNI Group’s value and strengthen our competitive position in the market.

The BNV Arcade initiative is crucial to BNI Group’s digital transformation, creating new business opportunities," Novita added.

The Grand Launching event also featured a fireside chat with startup founders, including Bisma Manda Samsu (Kecilin.id), Sabrina Soewatdy (Rukita), and Bayu Anggara (Fishlog), moderated by Faye Wongso (KUMPUL.ID). The discussion underscored the importance of innovation for growth and sustainability and highlighted successful collaboration dynamics between BNI Group, corporations, and startups.

During the Signing Ceremony, Kecilin.id, Rukita, and Fishlog formalized partnerships with BNI business units, further demonstrating BNI Ventures' commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation within the BNI ecosystem.

The event marked the official launch of the BNV Arcade program, supporting startups connected to BNI Group in driving innovation and building sustainable businesses. (*)