Registration

Welcome Remarks

Session I: Unlocking Potential

The adoption of AI and cutting-edge technology is profoundly reshaping the business landscape, creating unprecedented avenues for efficiency and market disruption. How are founders leveraging the transformative power of AI to unlock new market opportunities and redefine operational efficiency? How do they utilize these digital tools to outmaneuver rivals—both larger enterprises and those with deeper pockets? A panel of alumni from the 100 to Watch list will share unique insights into their strategic frameworks for AI-driven innovation and market leadership.

Moderated by John Kang, Senior Editor, Forbes Asia

Confirmed speakers:
Steve Abraham, Cofounder and Co-CEO, Zed
Mudit Dandwate, Cofounder and CEO, Dozee
Adrien Desbaillets, Cofounder and CEO, SaladStop! Group
Dylan Ng Terntzer, Cofounder and CEO, LionsBot

Session II: FedEx Small Business Grant Contest

Selected from the latest 100 to Watch list, four founders will pitch LIVE to a panel of judges.

Conor Madigan, Cofounder and CEO, Aether Fuels
Andrew Minett, Cofounder and CTO, Sicona Battery Technologies
Heidi Wyle, Founder and CEO, Venti Technologies
Su Yang, Cofounder, Linkerbot

Coffee and Networking Break

Session III: The New Investment Playbook

The era of easy capital has concluded, replaced by a discerning market where fiscal discipline and sustainable business models dictate success. With a significant market correction underway, leading venture capitalists have substantially revised their investment criteria. This panel convenes Asia’s most influential VCs to discuss where the smart money is moving now, how they are adapting their strategies for the current environment, and how AI has emerged as a defining investment focus that underpins future portfolio value.

Moderated by Rana Wehbe Watson, Editorial Director, Forbes Asia

Confirmed speakers:
Jing Hong, Founding Partner, Gaocheng Capital
Jefrey Joe, Cofounder and General Partner, Alpha JWC Ventures
Kuok Meng Xiong, Founder, K3 Ventures
Shailendra Singh, Managing Director, Peak XV

Session IV: FedEx Small Business Grant Contest - Results Announcement

Presented by Salil Chari, President, Asia Pacific, FedEx

Session V: Beyond the Breakthrough

Reaching a unicorn status is often portrayed as a finish line, but for top entrepreneurs, it is merely the starting block for a more complex race. This panel brings together a distinguished group of founders—from those leading billion-dollar startups to those navigating the public markets—to discuss how to convert early-stage momentum into a long-term competitive advantage, ensuring that their first big breakthrough isn’t their last.

Moderated by Rana Wehbe Watson, Editorial Director, Forbes Asia

Confirmed speakers:
Peter De Caluwe, Cofounder and CEO, Thunes
Aaron Tan, Cofounder and CEO, Carro
Edward Tirtanata, Cofounder and Group CEO, Kopi Kenangan

Forbes Asia 100 To Watch (Class of 2025) Awards Ceremony

Presented by Naazneen Karmali, Executive Editor, Forbes Asia

Closing Remarks and Group Photo

Networking Cocktails