What Makes Asia a Hotbed for Startups and Investments? Most of the world's innovation will come out of this region by 2050, believes Jeff Katz of HARDWARE.co

By Pooja Singh

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

You're reading Entrepreneur Asia Pacific, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.

Over the years, Asia has become a key attraction for private equity, venture capitalists and companies looking for growth and innovation. The growing middle class, high penetration of smartphones, a relatively young population and good disposable income are some of the major factors for the growing worldwide interest.

Berlin-based Jeff Katz, a serial entrepreneur who has built teams at startups such as KIWI.KI, which offers safe, keyless entry system for buildings, and big corporates like Telefónica, says people are flocking to Asia for "market access and market potential". "Most of the world's innovation will come out of this region by 2050," says Katz, who founded HARDWARE.co accelerator in 2013 for entrepreneurs, industry professionals and makers focused on hardware products.

During his recent visit to India as part of Startup AsiaBerlin, an initiative of the German government and led by Berlin-based non-governmental organization enpact e.V. that builds networks with startup founders from geographically diverse ecosystems, Katz spoke to us about what makes Asia so special for Germany.

Pooja Singh

Former Features Editor, Entrepreneur Asia Pacific

 

A stickler for details, Pooja Singh likes telling people stories. She has previously worked with Mint-Hindustan Times, Down To Earth and Asian News International-Reuters. 

Growing a Business

This Local Bakery Has Lines Out the Door. Here Are the Secrets to Its Success.

Known for its viral flat croissants and innovative desserts, Alexander's Patisserie also excels in hands-on leadership and team culture.

Side Hustle

She Quit Her Job at Trader Joe's After Starting a Side Hustle With $800 — Then She and Her Brother Grew the Business to $20 Million

Jaime Holm and Matt Hannula teamed up to build a business in an industry that "didn't exist" yet.

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

Business News

Microsoft Is Laying Off Over 6,000 Employees, About 3% of Its Workforce. Here's Why.

The company said the cuts will affect all divisions and locations, with a focus on managers.

Business News

'The Worst Time of My Life': $100 Million Deli Fraudster Sentenced to Prison

North Carolina businessman Peter Coker Sr. faces prison time and massive fines for his part in a scheme to defraud investors.

Business News

Nissan Is Doubling Its Initial Layoff Announcement, Cutting 20,000 Jobs: 'A Wake-Up Call'

The automaker is dealing with slowing sales and a recent failed merger with Honda.