SYNOPSIS
Unlocking Opportunities: Exploring the Future of the Philippines with 500 Global
500 Global is an early-stage venture fund and seed accelerator with $2.5 billion in assets under management that invests in founders building fast-growing technology companies. They focus on markets where technology, innovation, and capital can unlock long-term value and drive economic growth. Their impressive track record includes backing over 5,000 founders who built more than 2,800 companies across 80+ countries.
500 Global has invested in 45+ companies valued at over $1 billion and 150+ companies valued at over $100 million (including private, public, and exited companies). With 190+ team members located in over 25 countries, they bring a wealth of experience as entrepreneurs, investors, and operators from some of the world’s leading technology companies. Some of the companies they have backed include Grab, Bukalapak, Carousell, Carsome, FinAccel, and e-fishery.
With eyes set on Southeast Asia, Martin Cu, Partner and Head of Philippine coverage for 500 Global’s flagship Southeast Asia fund, is our special guest on Sessions. Join us – investors, entrepreneurs, students and other professionals as we seek to unravel what’s next for the Philippines and its long-term prospects around technology and innovation, what sectors are expected to shine in the short, medium and long-term, what major bottlenecks need to be solved to unlock long term value for the Philippines, and how can technology help drive that value.
SESSIONS II will delve into these crucial questions, and we’ll explore how the fund can become a catalyst for early stage businesses while helping entrepreneurs foster game-changing ideas.
Key Discussion Points
- The Philippines’ Tech Landscape: What are the most attractive sectors for investment, and what are the major bottlenecks hindering long-term growth?
- 500 Global’s Impact: How does the fund, with its 190+ team members boasting experience from leading tech companies, actively support the Philippine early-stage ecosystem through its programs?
- Unlocking Rural Potential: Can technology bridge the development gap between urban and rural areas, replicating the success of eFishery in other sectors? We’ll discuss the challenges and potential solutions specific to the Philippines.
- Building Global Champions: What steps can Filipino entrepreneurs take to create companies that not only thrive domestically but also compete on the world stage?
- Supporting Innovation: We’ll dive into the specific initiatives 500 Global offers to Filipino founders, along with the key qualities they seek in companies they choose to fund.
- Investment Strategies: How does 500 Global allocate capital across the different countries within Southeast Asia, and what factors drive their decision-making process?
DATE & TIME
April 24, 2024. Starts 6PM.
TICKET PRICE
Php1,000 (plus VAT) – Limited Slots
VENUE
Winery PH, 2247 Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City
About Martin Cu
Martin Cu is a seasoned venture capitalist and entrepreneur with a passion for building impactful companies in Southeast Asia. Currently, he serves as a Partner at 500 Global, a leading multi-stage venture capital firm, where he focuses on the Southeast Asian region. Under his leadership, 500 Global has invested in over 340 companies across the region, including household names like Grab, Bukalapak, and Carousell.
Prior to his venture capital career, Martin was a key player in the logistics industry. He served as the Country Head at Ninja Van Philippines, where he spearheaded the company’s phenomenal growth, scaling it from a startup to a nationwide operation with over 5,000 employees and a network serving 97% of the Philippines.
Martin’s career journey began with a foundation in marketing and communications. He held the position of Marketing Director at Zalora Philippines, a leading e-commerce platform. He also gained valuable experience in the telecommunications industry as a Device Manager at Globe Telecom.
Martin holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature/Letters from Boston University. His diverse background, combining business acumen, operational expertise, and a strong educational foundation, positions him as a prominent figure in Southeast Asia’s booming startup ecosystem.
AGENDA
| 6:00PM – 6:30PM | Registration |
| 6:30PM – 7:30PM | Brief Introduction/ Panel Discussion |
| 7:30PM – 8:15PM | Open Forum |
| 8:15PM Onwards | Networking |
SPONSORS
For queries, contact: roncastro@theindependentinvestor.ph