Collaboration Boosts Fintech's Potential for Regional Economic Growth
Amartha, a leading financial technology (fintech) service provider in Indonesia, has forged a strategic collaboration with Cross Fields, a Japanese organisation actively connecting the private sector for social impact initiatives. This partnership was realised through the Social Innovation Mission programme visit to Indonesia, where Amartha shared its experiences in promoting regional economic growth via the empowerment of MSMEs in rural areas.
Andi Taufan Garuda Putra, Founder and CEO of Amartha, presented various empowerment initiatives to 14 representatives from Japanese organisations. “We warmly welcome the visit from Cross Fields, which shares a vision aligned with Amartha in creating sustainable social impact. Fintech has great potential to drive regional economic growth by strengthening the local MSME ecosystem,” stated Taufan.
Through technology, fintech can provide flexible financial products tailored to the business cycles of ultra-micro entrepreneurs, thereby helping to maintain cash flow stability. In addition to funding access, Amartha also offers mentoring services to enhance digital financial literacy for its partners. This comprehensive support is crucial for business actors to develop, create jobs in their communities, and consistently scale their enterprises.
The Social Innovation Mission is Cross Fields’ flagship annual programme that connects startups, leading companies, and government institutions to explore collaborative solutions to various social challenges. Following successes in Kenya and India, this year’s programme was held in Indonesia, partnering with Amartha as a credible entity with 16 years of experience serving grassroots communities.
Daichi Konuma, Co-founder and CEO of Cross Fields, explained that the programme is expected to generate real ideas and solutions for social issues. “We hope this opportunity benefits organisations and startups in Indonesia, bringing inspirational dialogue and serving as the start of future collaborations. Thank you to Amartha for its valuable experience,” said Daichi.
The event was also attended by representatives from NTT, Inc., Meiji Holdings Co., Ltd., and several other major companies. In the discussion session, Amartha featured Sherly Novita, a knitter from Lembang, West Java, who shared the transformation of her business after joining the Amartha ecosystem. “I hope this journey of building a knitting craft business can inspire participants to continue supporting women and MSMEs in Indonesia,” said Sherly.
As part of its commitment to opening global collaboration opportunities, Amartha will host the Asia Grassroots Forum in Jakarta on 3–4 June 2026. This forum will serve as a platform for global investors, regulators, and academics to advance grassroots economic progress in Asia, with Cross Fields representatives scheduled to participate.