Wasna

Build your business as if the latest round of funds raised was your last. 💡 That was KARANA Foods CEO Blair D S Crichton 🌱🌍’s guidance on how startups can control costs and run lean amid a challenging fundraising environment. Too often, he says, companies spend their funds relatively quickly with the confidence that they can always raise more money later. Green Queen Media founder and editor-in-chief Sonalie Figueiras says she’s seen that mistake over and over. "Hold on to the runway you have and extend it. Become very focused on milestones and profitability to last as long as possible without raising." These are just some of the many sage insights that emerged during our recent conversations with alt protein founders, analysts, and investors across APAC. Other topics discussed included: overcoming price barriers by understanding your target consumers and optimising your supply chain, preparing a killer pitch deck, and leveraging media, social media, and AI platforms to connect with potential investors. 💼 👉 Dive into our latest blog for all of the key takeaways: https://lnkd.in/g3yQUJq5 Mihir Pershad Umami Bioworks Andrew D Ive Big Idea Ventures Mathieu VAN GIEL Wasna Simon Newstead Better Bite Ventures Nick Cooney Lever VC Gautam Godhwani Good Startup The Mills Fabrica Jolene L. Nurasa Dominique Kull SGProtein Maarten Geraets Thai Union Group PCL. Michael Fox Fable Food Co

Since its inception, the Ho Rih Hwa (HRH) Leadership Lecture Series has inspired countless audiences by inviting distinguished business or political leaders to share their invaluable perspectives, insights and experiences. Yesterday, Singapore Management University, in partnership with Bank of Singapore, Asia's Global Private Bank, had the distinct privilege of hosting the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Dame Jacinda Ardern, as our esteemed guest speaker. In an engaging conversation moderated by Founding Chairman of the SMU Board of Trustees, Mr Ho Kwon Ping, Ms Ardern explored a spectrum of topics, from the responsibilities of political leadership to the importance of empathising with the experiences of diverse communities, as well as advocacy for equitable gender roles. Climate action and sustainability emerged as focal points of the discussion. While the theme of altering human behavior to shape better outcomes may be a familiar one, it was a timely reminder that we should draw from the foundational principles of stewardship in our advocacy for climate action. This collective process of reconnecting with our roots and traditions can compel us to become better custodians of the #environment for future generations. The achievements of two outstanding SMU alumni, founders of startups Magorium Pte. Ltd. and Wasna, were also spotlighted. Their compelling ‘elevator pitches’ showcasing sustainable business solutions were very much aligned with SMU’s Strategic Priority of Sustainable Living. As they highlighted the tenuous balance between bureaucracy, profit and sustainability or emphasised the criticality of dispelling ingrained perceptions against the adoption of new technologies in sustainable solutions, what truly stood out was the commitment to their visions. It was immensely heartening to witness the energy and enthusiasm of these entrepreneurs, as they challenge skepticism and conventionality. They attest to the incredible potential of young people as future leaders in shaping a more #sustainable world. This year’s HRH lecture was more than thought-provoking; it vividly illustrated the essential role of #authenticity in shaping both personal and political leadership. It also underscored the importance of approaching the future with a spirit of curiosity, hope, and remaining open to the possibilities for #transformative change and impact. #sgsmu