AC Ventures Raises US$210M to back businesses in Indonesia and SEA

JAKARTA (IndoTelko) AC Ventures (ACV) announced the final close of its fifth investment fund, ACV Capital V L.P. (ACV Fund V), totaling US$210 million, including co-investment funds.

Indonesia"s macroeconomic environment and digital economy, valued at US$82 billion in 2023 is expected to reach US$360 billion by 2030, positioning the nation as a key destination for global technology investors. ACVentures Fund V"s closure is an important milestone in AC Ventures’ journey, bolstering its commitment to serving as a generational partner to visionary founders and high-potential ventures that drive economic and societal impact across the region.

Founding Partner Pandu Sjahrir said, "Indonesia stands out as a vibrant investment hub, thriving amidst global economic shifts. Our growth is fueled by a young and growing population, rising prosperity, and a stable pro-investment government. On this trajectory, Indonesia is on course to be among the top ten largest economies in the world over the coming decade."

AC Ventures Fund V has garnered support from a sophisticated group of global limited partners, with over 50% of commitments from returning investors and over 90% of funds composed of institutional capital. Key investors backing the fund include the World Bank’s IFC, along with prominent financial institutions from the US, the Middle East, and North Asia.

"The dynamic growth of tech-enabled businesses has become a major catalyst for innovation. It not only generates employment opportunities for young people, but it also provides innovative solutions that enable better delivery of vital services that address pressing development challenges," said Euan Marshall, IFC Country Manager for Indonesia and Timor-Leste. "By supporting venture capital through funds like ACV Capital V, IFC can help more startups and digital entrepreneurs innovate and amplify their impact in Indonesia and beyond."

In recent years, ACVentures has increased its emphasis on sustainable impact alongside high financial returns. The firm has prioritized companies that deliver not only strong economic value but also environmental and social impact. Illustrating this, the firm’s Fund III delivered an overall net impact ratio of +37% as measured by The Upright Project in Finland.

This ranks the firm and its portfolio above the Nasdaq Small Cap Index (NQUSS) average of +29% by a significant margin.

ACV Fund V has already started deployment and announced investments from the new fund including leading rounds in Indonesian electric vehicle manufacturer MAKA Motors, sustainable farming startup Koltiva, and more.

"With ACV Fund V, we are not just investing in companies with significant financial upside, but in a future where economic success and societal impact go hand in hand," explained Founder and Managing Partner Adrian Li. "Our focus on financial returns and sustainability is not only a reflection of what is trending in the market. It is a fundamental cornerstone of our long-term investment philosophy to create significant value for all stakeholders."

ACVentures differentiates itself in Indonesia by providing hands-on value-creation services to its portfolio companies. Its value creation team plays a role in steering startups toward growth, innovation, and sustainable success.

The division offers an array of services tailored to the needs of startups. These include functional support to portfolio companies in business development and strategic partnerships, talent advisory, government relations, financial planning, and fundraising.

Additionally, the team specializes in marketing, growth, PR, and ESG guidance, all further supported by a community of external expert advisors. This network includes industry veterans, entrepreneurs, and experts ranging from lawyers to tech innovators and Fortune 500 leaders.

Founder and Managing Partner Michael Soerijadji said, "The Indonesian economy is on a very positive trajectory. The current market environment provides an opportunity to invest in fast-growing, operationally efficient companies with a strong focus on profitability at more attractive valuations."

ACVentures is an advocate for diversity and inclusion. Within the firm, 50% of its senior leadership roles are filled by women. This extends to its portfolio companies, with 41% C-level female leadership representation.

Managing Partner Helen Wong commented, "I am excited that we have fresh funds to deploy and will look for the best founders, including female founders who are often neglected in the tech ecosystem. We will also continue to advocate gender equality within our team, as we have found that it brings varied perspectives that are crucial for holistic decision-making and understanding diverse markets."(es)