The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is one of the most vibrant startup ecosystems in the world today. Thanks to rapid digitalization, a growing middle class, and strong investor appetite, the region has become a hotbed of innovation across sectors like fintech, healthtech, AI, sustainability, and e-commerce.
In 2025, several startups stand out for their disruptive potential and rapid growth.
Here’s a look at the most promising startups in Asia-Pacific this year:
1. Advance.AI (Singapore)
Sector: Artificial Intelligence / Fintech
Advance.AI leverages AI and big data to deliver digital identity verification, risk management, and lending solutions across Southeast Asia.
With expansion into India and Australia, it’s becoming a go-to platform for banks and fintechs needing secure onboarding.
2. Atome (Singapore)
Sector: Fintech (Buy Now, Pay Later)
Atome continues to dominate the BNPL space across Asia.
By integrating advanced credit scoring with consumer apps, Atome is tapping into millions of Gen Z and millennial consumers across Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
3. Zeroth.AI (Hong Kong)
Sector: Artificial Intelligence Venture Platform
Zeroth funds and mentors AI startups across Asia, helping new AI ideas scale rapidly.
Their accelerator model, combined with deep tech expertise, positions Zeroth as a major launchpad for the next AI unicorns.
4. Carro (Singapore)
Sector: Automotive / E-commerce
Carro has reimagined the way used cars are bought and sold in Southeast Asia using AI and digital financing solutions.
They recently launched subscription car ownership models, making vehicle access cheaper and more flexible for younger customers.
5. Pickupp (Hong Kong)
Sector: Logistics / Last-Mile Delivery
With the explosive growth in e-commerce, Pickupp offers smart, low-cost last-mile logistics solutions in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia.
Its proprietary routing technology reduces costs and delivery times dramatically.
6. Unacademy (India)
Sector: EdTech
India’s Unacademy has grown from a YouTube channel to one of Asia’s largest online education platforms.
In 2025, it’s expanding aggressively into Southeast Asia, offering affordable test preparation and certification courses.
7. Neurence (Australia)
Sector: Healthtech / AI
Neurence develops brain health monitoring devices and AI-driven diagnostics.
With rising global demand for mental health and cognitive care solutions, Neurence is poised for international expansion.
8. Sampingan (Indonesia)
Sector: Gig Economy / Workforce Tech
Sampingan helps companies quickly onboard and manage freelance workers across Indonesia.
As remote and flexible work becomes mainstream, Sampingan is solving real logistical challenges for Southeast Asia’s booming informal workforce.
9. iFarmer (Bangladesh)
Sector: AgriTech / Fintech
iFarmer connects rural farmers with urban investors, providing financing, advisory services, and market access.
It’s addressing the huge untapped potential in agricultural finance across emerging Asian economies.
10. Gilmour Space Technologies (Australia)
Sector: SpaceTech
Gilmour Space is building next-generation hybrid rockets for small satellite launches.
With private space exploration heating up globally, Gilmour Space is positioning itself as Asia-Pacific’s leading player in affordable orbital launches.
Why Asia-Pacific Startups Matter
- Massive Market Potential: Asia-Pacific houses more than half the world’s population.
- Rapid Tech Adoption: Smartphones, 5G, digital payments, and blockchain are seeing explosive adoption.
- Government Support: Countries like Singapore, South Korea, Australia, and India actively nurture startup ecosystems through grants, regulatory support, and innovation hubs.
These startups are not just regional players — many are aiming for global markets and could become tomorrow’s household names.
