The key to startup success is that the product must fit the market (product-market fit). This means that the product or service offered meets users’ needs and solves their problems.

“There’s no point in having a low level of satisfaction or a high NPS if the rate of return is also low,” said Indra Gunawan, founder of Bobobox, during the talk show “Grebek Startup” organized by the SBM ITB in collaboration with IDENATION on Wednesday ( 8/5) in Bandung. This event featured live pitching sessions and talk shows with the theme “Start Paving the Way for Sustainable.”

Bobobox, a startup that provides affordable accommodation solutions for travelers, showcases its innovative approach with three unique products: Bobopod, Bobocabin, and Boboliving. These offerings not only meet users’ needs but also promote lodging products that are space and energy-efficient, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability.

Arka Irfani, the founder of Bell Living Lab, is at the forefront of sustainability, developing synthetic leather materials from coffee waste. However, he acknowledges the uphill battle of raising awareness about sustainability principles among Indonesians, highlighting the complex challenges startups face in this endeavor.

Despite significant technological and production advancements, their utilization remains limited to major cities. Arka emphasizes the urgent need for public awareness and increased government regulation to address this issue, underlining the crucial role of policy changes in promoting sustainable business practices.

After the talk show, the event continued with a live pitching session from five innovative companies, including 3D Print.Id, Lobsmart, Tiby, Britain, Indonesia, and Blok Kayu Modular. This session was won by 3D Print.id, a startup that offers a solution to the problem of expensive filament for 3D printing. They developed a pallet extruder that uses used waste as sustainable raw material.

The event shows the vital role of startups in driving innovation and technological progress in Indonesia. The key to realizing the vision of an advanced and sustainable Indonesia is the direct involvement of startup players and continuous support from various parties. Startups contribute to economic growth and address societal challenges, such as sustainability and social inclusion, making them key players in shaping the future of Indonesia.

Written by Student Reporter (Hansen Marciano, Management 2025)