Investment Opportunities of Rp5–8 Billion for D2C Brands: SUMU Facilitates Networking with Investors

Yogyakarta – Serikat Usaha Muhammadiyah (SUMU) continues to strengthen its commitment to opening access to capital while expanding strategic networks for its members. One concrete step currently being pursued is facilitating connections between SUMU member entrepreneurs and venture capital (VC) investors with a particular interest in the consumer brand sector in Indonesia. This initiative stems from communications established by Ghufron Mustaqim, Deputy Chair of the Muhammadiyah Central Leadership’s SME Development Agency and SUMU Responsible Officer, with the founder of a new investment fund beginning its activities in Indonesia. Unlike many venture capitals oriented towards exponential growth and specific exit targets within a certain timeframe, this investor adopts a more sustainable approach. “They are not merely seeking rapid growth but are more focused on healthy, stable businesses with long-term potential. This presents a highly relevant opportunity for many SUMU member entrepreneurs who wish to grow sustainably without exit pressures,” said Ghufron on Wednesday (15/4/26). The investor specifically targets Direct-to-Consumer (D2C)-based companies, namely brands that sell their products directly to consumers without intermediaries such as distributors or third-party retailers. This business model is considered advantageous for building direct customer relationships, creating loyalty, and maintaining consistent growth. Currently, the investor has prepared around Rp200 billion in funds ready to be allocated to selected companies. The main investment criteria include a strong narrative and brand story, annual turnover of Rp10–30 billion, healthy EBITDA (operational profit) margins, and ownership of brands with intellectual property. Beyond mere funding, the investor also offers strategic support for founders. With experience in building one of the large D2C brands, they provide coaching and mentoring to aid sharper decision-making and avoid common business development pitfalls. “The added value offered is not just funds but also access to a strong ecosystem, from Silicon Valley tech mentors, marketing and branding experts, to global supply chain partners. This is the differentiation that is highly beneficial for our entrepreneurs,” added Ghufron. SUMU is opening opportunities for members meeting the criteria to undergo an initial curation process. Companies passing internal selection will be recommended to the investor for the next stage. For interested SUMU members, company profiles can be sent via email to [email protected] or by contacting SUMU Customer Service at +62812-2359-5536 (WhatsApp), including the SUMU Membership Card (KTA). Ghufron emphasised that this process is not a guarantee of funding but an initial gateway to building relationships and trust with the investor. “We want to open more opportunities for local brands to level up. This networking is an important initial step to match potential entrepreneurs with the right investors,” he asserted. Through this collaboration, SUMU hopes that more local D2C-based brands can develop sustainably and make real contributions to the national economy and community welfare.