Ex-Citi and KaHa Executives Launch $150M Fund to Boost Southeast Asian Startups

In a significant move for the Southeast Asian startup ecosystem, former executive from Citi, Brijesh Pande, KaHa founder Pawan Gandhi, and Texas-based Planview CEO Razat Gaurav have unveiled a new $150 million private equity fund, Frontier Tech Capital, aimed at supporting high-potential startups in the region.

This fund targets companies with annual revenues exceeding $50 million, focusing on those with a clear trajectory toward profitability and scalability.

Southeast Asia’s Rising Startup Landscape

The launch comes at a time when Southeast Asia is emerging as a global hub for innovation, with countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand witnessing a surge in tech-driven enterprises.

Historically, the region has faced challenges in accessing substantial late-stage funding, often forcing startups to seek capital overseas, which this fund aims to address by providing local investment.

Who’s Behind the Fund?

The team of ex-Citi and KaHa executives brings a wealth of experience in finance and technology, positioning them as key players in identifying and nurturing promising ventures.

Their vision is to bridge the gap between early-stage innovation and mature growth, ensuring that startups have the resources to scale sustainably in competitive markets.

Impact on the Regional Economy

This initiative is expected to create a ripple effect, generating jobs and innovation while attracting further international interest in Southeast Asia’s burgeoning tech scene.

By focusing on scalability, the fund could help transform local startups into global competitors, strengthening the region’s economic standing.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future

Analysts predict that such investments could inspire more private equity funds to target Southeast Asia, potentially leading to a funding boom over the next decade.

The fund’s emphasis on profitability also signals a shift toward more disciplined financial models, which could set a new standard for startup success in the region.

As this $150 million fund begins its journey, the startup community watches closely, hopeful for transformative outcomes that could redefine the future of technology in Southeast Asia.