LOCAL drone company Aerodyne Group is eyeing global expansion after securing top 4 finalists in the recent FedEx 2024 Small Business Grant Contest in Asia Pacific.
Aerodyne is a DT3 (drone technology, data technology and digital transformation) enterprise solutions provider that utilises drone data and AI-powered analytics to address complex industrial challenges.
This success positions Aerodyne within a select group of top startups sharing a US$69,000 (RM289,000) prize pool, intended to spur regional and global expansion.
According to Aerodyne Group's founder and Group chief executive officer, Kamarul A Muhamed, participating in the contest was a rewarding experience, offering a platform to showcase our innovations and connect with other forward-thinking businesses.
"The main challenge was succinctly communicating the complexity and impact of our technology within the contest's format. This experience underscored the importance of effective storytelling in business, which played a crucial role in engaging the judges and the audience," he said.
He added that this provides substantial benefits to the broader Malaysian tech sector, offering international visibility and validation.
"For companies like ours, which operate on a global scale, this contest helps highlight Malaysia's potential as a hub for cutting-edge technology. The recognition from this contest underscores the importance of nurturing local innovation to achieve international success," he said, adding that it boosts Aerodyne's credibility when approaching potential partners and clients globally.
"This exposure encourages us to continue investing in cutting-edge technology to maintain our competitive edge and further our global presence," he added.
Commenting on Aerodyne's next move, Kamarul said "We aim to further penetrate international markets such as South America and Africa while strengthening our presence in Asia".
"We plan to launch new AI-driven drone solutions that will transform sectors like agriculture and logistics. Additionally, we are exploring strategic partnerships and acquisitions to enhance our technological capabilities and market reach. Another major milestone is our goal to advance technology for the good of the planet, using our innovations to promote social impact," he said.
Meanwhile, FedEx Malaysia managing director, Tien Long Woon, said the Small Business Grant Contest (SBGC) is an annual competition organised by FedEx to support small businesses and business owners in transforming their innovative ideas into successful realities by thinking differently, finding new solutions and challenging the status quo.
"This initiative reflects our investment in the local and global economic ecosystem," he said.
Tien said Aerodyne was nominated as a finalist for its autonomous drones that can spray crops, inspect power lines and monitor city streets, showcasing its scalable business ideas and remarkable vision.
"FedEx plays a pivotal role in empowering local SMEs like Aerodyne Group to thrive and expand globally. SMEs drive innovation and job creation, forming the backbone of economies globally and in Malaysia. Our commitment is to provide them with reliable shipping solutions and access to global markets to compete internationally," he said.