KNEKS and Bank Indonesia Host Halal Startup Demo Day 2025: A Platform for Indonesia’s Halal Innovation and Growth

Jakarta, Thursday (October 9) — The National Committee for Islamic Economy and Finance (KNEKS), in collaboration with Bank Indonesia’s Department of Sharia Economy and Finance (DEKS BI), held the Halal Startup Demo Day (HSDD) 2025, as part of the Indonesia Sharia Economic Festival (ISEF) 2025 series.

Under the theme “DJHIWA – Dare to Jumpstart Halal Industry With Ambition,” HSDD 2025 served as a strategic platform connecting halal industry startups with investors, mentors, and key stakeholders. The event took place on Thursday, October 9, at Singosari Room, Hotel Borobudur, Central Jakarta.

“On behalf of Bank Indonesia, we extend our deepest appreciation to KNEKS and all partners who contributed to this event—from organizing partners and supporting institutions to the startups showcasing their innovations in the halal industry today,” said Yono, Deputy Director of Sharia Economy and Finance, Bank Indonesia.

Yono added, “Aligned with the national vision of Asta Cita Indonesia, Bank Indonesia is committed to accelerating the halal startup ecosystem to position Indonesia as a global hub for the halal industry. Through this initiative, we aim to connect innovators with investors and broaden access to sharia-compliant financing. This event also strengthens the halal value chain and nurtures competitive startups ready to enter global markets.”

 

Unlocking Funding and Networking Opportunities for Curated Halal Startups

A total of 20 selected startups presented their innovations and business growth to potential investors and key ecosystem players. These startups span diverse sectors, including food and beverages, fashion, healthcare, Islamic finance, Muslim-friendly tourism, renewable energy, and media and recreation.

“The Ministry of Industry is committed to nurturing technology startups through the Startup for Industry program—a platform for mentorship and collaboration that fosters tech-driven industrial solutions and strengthens the national supply chain,” said Dini Hanggandari, Director of IKM, LMEA, Ministry of Industry.

Putu Rahwidiyasa, Director of Sharia Business and Entrepreneurship, KNEKS, highlighted that HSDD 2025 is an integral part of KNEKS’s mission to advance sharia-based economic innovation.

“We aim to empower startups to compete both locally and globally by expanding their access to funding and networks,” he said.

HSDD 2025 addresses the common challenges startups face in securing funding, building networks, and accessing quality mentorship. The program provides curated mentorship, guidance on pitch deck development, and direct engagement with investors, buyers, and strategic partners.

Wahyu Wicaksono, Director of Applications, Ministry of Creative Economy, added:

“The Ministry places strong emphasis on fostering halal-based creative economy startups. Through digital technology and creativity, these startups can deliver inclusive, competitive halal products and services with broad economic impact.”

 

Two Core Sessions Featuring Regulators, Investors, and Industry Experts

The event featured two main sessions focusing on ecosystem collaboration and business mentorship:

  • Session I: Panel Discussion with representatives from Bank Indonesia, OJK, the Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs, the Ministry of Industry, Bappenas, the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, and the Ministry of Creative Economy. This session provided direction and motivation for startups to take part in developing Indonesia’s sharia economy.
  • Session II: Pitching session featuring curated startups presenting to investors and the halal ecosystem.
  • Session III: Speed Dating—facilitated meetings between startups, investors, buyers, and ecosystem partners.

“Sustained collaboration among stakeholders—government, financial institutions, investors, academia, and the entrepreneurial community—is essential. We hope this event inspires a new generation of innovative, competitive halal startups that meaningfully contribute to national progress,” said Irwansyah, Assistant Deputy for Business Incubation and Digitalization, Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs.

Organizations supporting the event included the Indonesian Fintech Association (AFSI), the Indonesian Venture Capital Association for Startups (AMVESINDO), Gobi Partners, BTPN Syariah Venture Capital, HASAN Venture Capital, PUM Netherlands, World Startup, and Rahmania Foundation.

“We envision HSDD 2025 as a strategic convergence point that strengthens synergy among stakeholders and expands opportunities for Indonesia’s halal startups,” added Putu.

 

Driving the Growth of Indonesia’s Halal Economy

KNEKS invites all stakeholders, industry players, and media representatives to witness the journey of 20 selected startups as they scale their businesses. HSDD 2025 is expected to serve as a pivotal moment in strengthening the role of startups in driving Indonesia’s sharia economy and enhancing the competitiveness of the national halal industry on the global stage.

During the Investment Commitment Session, a total investment commitment of IDR 21 billion was secured for selected startups. In addition to funding, several accelerators pledged mentorship and capacity-building support. Among the committed investors and partners were KPMI (Indonesian Muslim Entrepreneurs Community), PT Gaido Group, Equitree, PUM Netherlands, Rahmania Foundation, HASAN VC, BTPN Syariah Venture, and LBS Urun Dana.

 

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MEDIA CONTACT 

Contact: Adinda Lia Analia, Sr. Marketing & Communications AFSI

Email: dinda@fintechsyariah.id