Jakarta, 1 July 2025 — The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum, administered by UNDP Indonesia, organized a Demo Day to mark the culmination of the Blue Innovative Startup Acceleration (BISA) program—an initiative to boost innovation in the blue economy and coastal areas. This collaboration with the UK-Indonesia Tech Hub of the British Embassy in Jakarta brought together startups, students, and community organizations to showcase inclusive and locally driven solutions for sustainable coastal development.

The BISA program encourages the adoption of technologies tailored to local needs in coastal areas. Through collaboration within the Synergy Group, the program brings together startups, students, and community organizations. It is designed to identify on-the-ground challenges faced by coastal communities, develop innovative solutions, and implement real, inclusive and sustainable actions to accelerate the growth of the blue economy in Indonesia.

Ten groups from across Indonesia—including those from Bontang (West Kalimantan), Takalar (South Sulawesi), Anambas (Riau Islands), dan Larantuka (East Nusa Tenggara)—showcased their innovations after completing an intensive three-month training. During the Demo session, each group presented ready-to-deploy solutions tailored to address local blue economy challenges.

A Vision for Inclusive and Sustainable Development

Aligned with the vision of UNDP and the AIS Forum, the BISA initiative is a concrete example of shared commitment to inclusive and sustainable development in coastal regions. Deputy Resident Representative UNDP Indonesia, Ms. Sujala Pant emphasized that the program is a strategic step to ensure that innovation responds directly to community needs while strengthening cross-sector collaboration for a more resilient ocean and coastal communities.

“BISA is a tangible step to address challenges in coastal and small island areas. We are committed to building an inclusive blue innovation ecosystem, expanding cross-sector collaboration, and creating sustainable economic opportunities, especially for youth and women, who are key to the future and prosperity of coastal communities,” she stated.

Supported by the Government of Indonesia, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Havas Oegroseno described the BISA program as a model of local innovation and collaboration that could be replicated across AIS Forum participating countries to drive inclusive and sustainable development.

“Initiatives such as BISA affirm that community-based solutions have a strategic role in shaping a global development architecture that is more inclusive and adaptive to local contexts,” the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized. “This initiative is an example of good practice that can be adapted by island and archipelagic countries in facing common challenges. Through collaborations like this, we strengthen global solidarity and accelerate the presence of transformative solutions that address the real needs of coastal communities,” he added.

Driven by Cross-Sector Collaboration

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, H.E. Mr. Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) welcomed the selection of the Synergy Group as a symbol of strengthened connectivity and cross-sector collaboration in coastal regions.

“The selection of Synergy Group through the BISA Programme aligns with our vision of enhancing connectivity and multi-sectoral collaboration. Initiatives like this are essential to foster more equitable, sustainable, and competitive development in coastal and island regions,” he said.

As part of the program, Synergy Group participants presented their innovations before a panel composed of representatives from the Indonesian Government, the UK Government, state-owned enterprises (BUMN), and the impact investment organization. Following a rigorous selection process, five groups will receive grants to implement their solutions in selected coastal areas.

H.E Mr. Matthew Downing, British Deputy Ambassador to Indonesia said, “BISA is a powerful example of how the UK’s collaboration with Indonesia can drive tech-enabled solutions for the blue economy. As we work with Indonesia toward a new Strategic Partnership as agreed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Prabowo Subianto in London last year, I look forward to fostering innovation that builds a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable blue economy.”

Align with the objective of creating sustainable economic development through the implementation of blue economy, with the BISA program, the AIS Forum and its strategic partners are advancing blue sector innovation by empowering youth and women as changemakers in coastal communities. This initiative stands as a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that development reaches remote regions and those who need it most.

About the AIS Forum
The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum is an initiative spearheaded by the Government of Indonesia with support from UNDP Indonesia. It engages 51 archipelagic and island nations worldwide in collective action to address ocean-related challenges.

About the UK-Indonesia Tech Hub
The UK-Indonesia Tech Hub is part of the International Tech Hub Network under the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The program promotes digital inclusion and inclusive development in partner countries. It focuses on fostering partnerships between the UK and global tech sectors, stimulating digital economic growth, and building digital skills to support the development of a sustainable workforce.

Media Contact:
Nabilla Rahmani, Head of Communications – UNDP Indonesia
nabilla.rahmani@undp.org

Dafa Komarudin, AIS Forum Communications Officer – UNDP Indonesia
dafa.komarudin@undp.org