F/MS Top Startup Cities

5 min read

Bandung, Indonesia #368

City Scores

City Total Score

0.638

Overall ranking score

Quality Score

0.08

Ecosystem quality rating

Quantity Score

0.15

Ecosystem size rating

Business Score

0.41

Business environment rating

Score Distribution

Score Comparison

MeanCEO Index Click to scroll to details

57

Startup Ecosystem in Bandung ๐ŸŒŸ

TL;DR

Bandung is ranked 368th in the Global F/MS โ€œBest Cities for Startupsโ€ Index. Known for its innovative spirit and vibrant tech community, Bandung is emerging as a promising destination for startups looking to thrive in a supportive environment.


Startup-Friendly Stuff ๐Ÿ“ˆ

1. Ease of Company Registration

  • Business Registration: Procedures are relatively streamlined, with several online options available to simplify the process.
  • Startup Incentives: Local government initiatives focus on nurturing tech startups, providing various resources and support.

2. Employment Law ๐Ÿข

  • Labor Regulations: Comprehensive laws safeguard employee rights, but navigating them can be complex for startups.
  • Hiring Foreign Talent: The process for hiring foreigners is straightforward, though work permits are required.

3. Taxation ๐Ÿ’ฐ

  • Corporate Tax Rate: The standard rate is approximately 25%, with incentives available for eligible startups in tech.
  • VAT Regulations: Competitive VAT rates apply, especially favorable for companies in innovation sectors.

4. Quality of Life ๐ŸŒ†

  • Living Standards: Bandung offers a pleasant living environment with moderate living costs, making it accessible for entrepreneurs.
  • Culture and Leisure: A rich cultural scene with parks, art, and entertainment options that foster creativity and relaxation.

5. Bureaucracy ๐Ÿ—‚๏ธ

  • Ease of Navigation: The bureaucracy is generally manageable, though certain permits can take time.
  • Government Support: Various state programs encourage innovation and provide resources for startups.

6. Visas for Entrepreneurs ๐ŸŒ

  • Startup Visas & Permits: Foreign entrepreneurs can obtain business visas with relative ease.
  • Residency Options: Long-term residency options are available for qualifying entrepreneurs.

Startup Community ๐Ÿค

7. Networking Events

  • Regular startup meetups, hackathons, and workshops foster collaboration and innovation.
  • Events often attract local and international investors, enhancing networking opportunities.

8. Subsidies and Funding ๐Ÿ’ต

  • Government offers substantial support for startups, particularly in technology-focused sectors.
  • Numerous grants and incubator programs aim to bolster emerging businesses.

9. Venture Capital (VC) Presence

  • Investments: A growing VC scene is actively seeking opportunities, focusing on diverse sectors.
  • Major Firms: Bandung is home to a mix of local venture capitalists and emerging international players.

10. Incubators & Accelerators ๐Ÿš€

  • A variety of incubators offer tailored support for industries like tech, health, and e-commerce.
  • Programs typically include mentorship, office space, and access to funding.

Technology & Industry Priorities ๐Ÿ”ง

  • Focus Areas: Key sectors include Fintech, E-commerce, AI, and Creative Industries.
  • Government Initiatives: The government is increasingly emphasizing digital transformation and innovation.

Business Culture ๐Ÿ™๏ธ

  • Language: Bahasa Indonesia is the primary business language; English is used frequently in startup circles.
  • Work Environment: Collaborative, creative, and open to new ideasโ€”ideal for innovators and dreamers.

General Pros and Cons โš–๏ธ

Pros:

  • Thriving tech scene with increasing resources and support.
  • Active diaspora community enhances networking and collaboration opportunities.
  • Government backing signals a commitment to supporting entrepreneurs.

Cons:

  • Infrastructure can be less developed compared to larger cities.
  • Market saturation in certain sectors can pose competitive challenges.

Initiatives for Female Entrepreneurs ๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ’ผ

  • An expanding focus on women-led startups with dedicated support networks.
  • Regular events and initiatives aimed at empowering female founders.

Bandung is carving out a niche as a startup-friendly city, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs who seek innovation and community in a vibrant setting. ๐ŸŒŸ

MeanCEO Index for Bandung, Indonesia ๐ŸŒŸ

Bandung is emerging as a vibrant startup eco-system, but how does it fare for female entrepreneurs? Letโ€™s break down the MeanCEO Index score based on ten critical factors influencing the entrepreneurial landscape.


1. Weather โ˜€๏ธ

  • Score: 7/10
    • With a tropical climate, Bandung enjoys warm weather year-round, though it does experience rainy seasons. The pleasant temperatures provide a great atmosphere for outdoor networking events when the sun is shining.

2. Location ๐Ÿ–๏ธ

  • Score: 4/10
    • While Bandung is inland, it offers access to nearby natural attractions and mountain areas. However, the lack of direct beach access limits its score in this category.

3. Women Friendly ๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ’ผ

  • Score: 6/10
    • Indonesia has made strides in gender equality, and Bandung has a growing community that supports women entrepreneurs. However, traditional values can sometimes overshadow these advancements.

4. Foreigners Friendly ๐ŸŒ

  • Score: 5/10
    • The culture is generally warm and welcoming; however, language barriers and societal norms may present challenges for female foreigners seeking to integrate.

5. English as a Business Language ๐Ÿ“š

  • Score: 6/10
    • English is increasingly spoken in business circles, especially among the tech community. However, it is less prevalent in everyday interactions, which might pose challenges for those not fluent in Bahasa Indonesia.

6. Delicious Cuisine ๐Ÿœ

  • Score: 7/10
    • Bandung is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, which is generally healthy. While onions are commonly used, the focus on local ingredients and flavors enhances the overall culinary scene.

7. Ease of Getting Married and Starting a Family ๐Ÿ’

  • Score: 5/10
    • While Bandung has a vibrant social life, the attraction level of local men can vary. The traditional views on family can present challenges for those looking to start a family.

8. Medicine ๐Ÿฅ

  • Score: 6/10
    • Accessing healthcare is reasonable, with various clinics and hospitals available. Appointment availability is generally straightforward, though quality can vary.

9. Ease of Transportation & Traveling ๐Ÿš

  • Score: 5/10
    • Public transportation options exist but can sometimes be limited. While ride-sharing services are available, the overall transportation infrastructure feels underdeveloped compared to larger cities.

10. Startup Mindset ๐Ÿ’ก

  • Score: 7/10
    • The community exhibits a progressive attitude towards entrepreneurship, viewing failure as a learning experience. The support from local initiatives helps to foster a resilient startup culture.

MeanCEO Index Score: 57/100 ๐ŸŽ‰

Bandung presents a promising landscape for female entrepreneurs, showcasing a supportive startup community and a willingness to embrace innovation. While challenges existโ€”particularly concerning infrastructure and traditional cultural normsโ€”the growing resources and government support signify that Bandung is steadily carving out its niche as a startup-friendly city.

Happy entrepreneurship! ๐Ÿš€