Jakarta, April 24, 2024 - Bank Saqu, the digital banking service of PT Bank Jasa Jakarta, in collaboration with Endeavor Indonesia, a non-profit organization that supports entrepreneurs in Indonesia and 43 other countries, today announced the launch of a mentoring program called the Bank Saqu Solopreneur Academy. Bank Saqu Solopreneur Academy is ready to present a comprehensive program that will provide the knowledge, skills, and networks needed for solopreneurs to be more productive and successful.
Angela Lew Dermawan, Chief Digital Business Officer of PT Bank Jasa Jakarta said, "The launch of the Bank Saqu Solopreneur Academy is a manifestation of Bank Saqu's commitment to providing financial services that support solopreneurs to achieve financial success. As solopreneur partner, Bank Saqu not only provides financial services designed specifically for their needs, but also various supports that also increase their productivity and competence. We hope that Solopreneur Academy can help Indonesian solopreneurs reach their potential and become the best version of themselves."
Devina Hartono, Executive Director of Endeavor Indonesia said, "We are excited to collaborate with Bank Saqu to present the Bank Saqu Solopreneur Academy. So far, one of the main obstacles for solopreneurs and early-stage startups to grow is the lack of effective network support and finding effective mentors. Therefore, the curriculum of this program is designed based on Endeavor Indonesia's experience and one vision with us to always "Dream Bigger, Scale Faster" in supporting the startup ecosystem. With intensive mentorship through the support of solopreneur coaching with mentors from Endeavor's network, we hope that this program can further improve the competence of Indonesian solopreneurs."
In Indonesia, solopreneurs have an important role in driving Indonesia's economic progress. Based on data from the Segara Institute, one in three Indonesians has the potential to become a solopreneur by 2030. Therefore, the Bank Saqu Solopreneur Academy not only offers financial products, but also functions as an education and mentoring center to help solopreneurs achieve financial success.
During the mentorship period, the Bank Saqu Solopreneur Academy will provide a comprehensive curriculum to selected participants designed to improve their business acumen, financial literacy, and marketing skills. Some of the programs presented include:
- Personal guidance: Participants will be paired with experienced mentors who will offer tailored guidance and support throughout the program. Participating mentors include Tubagus Syailendra, CEO of the chicken farming startup Chickin; Yukka Harlanda, CEO of shoe manufacturer Brodo; and Linda Anggrea, CEO of Muslim fashion Buttonscarves.
- Skill Development Workshops: A series of workshops will cover important topics such as effective networking, financial management, and personal branding.
- Networking opportunities: Participants will gain access to a network of fellow solopreneurs, industry experts, and potential investors.
After completing the intensive training and mentoring sessions, the finalists of the Bank Squ Solopreneur Academy will conduct a final presentation and judging phase. The top three finalists will receive cash prizes and the opportunity to become Bank Saqu ambassadors.
"We are very excited to welcome the extraordinary first batch to the Bank Saqu Solopreneur Academy and collaborate with Endeavor Indonesia to build a generation of resilient Indonesian solopreneurs. Together, we are confident that we can drive the development and success of Indonesian solopreneurs," concluded Angela.
The Bank Saqu Solopreneur Academy offers a comprehensive program designed to empower Indonesian solopreneurs and help them reach their full potential. The program consists of several stages, including:
- Solopreneur Academy Roadshow (April - May 2024): Reaching out to the solopreneur communities throughout Indonesia to become prospective participants in the Solopreneur Academy.
- Participant Selection and Announcement (May-June 2024): The selection process to recruit Solopreneur Academy participants.
- Mentorship and Training (July-October 2024): An intensive mentorship program to develop the business, financial, and marketing skills of selected participants.
- Final Presentation and Demo Day (November 2024): Participants showcase their achievements and promote their businesses to judges and industry experts.
For information, more than 43% of Bank Saqu's current customers are between the ages of 20-30 with demographics residing in the Jabodetabek, Bandung and Surabaya areas. Bank Saqu targets the younger generation, especially solopreneurs in Indonesia, including small business owners, freelancers, and permanent employees with additional jobs. This segment is proactively looking for ways to grow, save more, invest more, or even take out loans for future productive endeavors.