Cambodia Investment Review
Cambodia’s fintech sector is entering a new growth phase, with artificial intelligence, rising investor appetite, and cross-industry integration emerging as key themes at Startup Grind Cambodia’s latest Founder Connect event.
The session, held on August 27 at The Desk Flagship – Daun Penh, brought together about 100 participants from across the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Panelists Khuon Sophorth, CEO and Co-founder of Morakot Technology and Mora BNPL, and Vila Lay, Co-founder and CEO of Delightech, shared insights in a fireside chat moderated by Yim Akthichetha.
Fintech Growth and Industry Shifts
Speakers reflected on how Cambodia’s fintech ecosystem has advanced compared to five years ago, citing stronger digital adoption and a rising pool of investor interest. The discussion pointed to opportunities in applying models seen elsewhere in Asia-Pacific, such as advanced credit scoring systems and AI-driven customer services, that have yet to be fully deployed in Cambodia.
Integration across industries was also highlighted, with fintech increasingly overlapping with e-commerce, agriculture, and logistics to deliver more accessible and efficient financial services.
Role of AI in Financial Services
Artificial intelligence featured prominently in the conversation, particularly in how automation could streamline processes, reduce risks, and improve customer experiences. Panelists noted that AI’s integration into financial services could help Cambodia leapfrog certain legacy systems, enabling startups to offer solutions at lower costs and higher efficiency.
The speakers also pointed to growing regional investor interest in AI-enabled fintech ventures, which they believe could drive the next wave of financial innovation in Cambodia.
Lessons for Young Entrepreneurs
Both Sophorth and Lay shared insights from their own startup journeys, including the motivations that led them to launch fintech ventures. They encouraged aspiring founders to build resilience, strengthen financial and technical skills, and actively seek mentorship.
Panelists also emphasized the importance of learning from early missteps, underscoring that mistakes in strategy and execution often provide the most valuable lessons for growth.
Supporting Cambodia’s Startup Ecosystem
Founder Connect is part of Startup Grind Cambodia’s ongoing mission to inspire, educate, and connect entrepreneurs. By featuring experienced innovators, the program aims to equip local founders with practical knowledge and networking opportunities to help scale their ventures.
Startup Grind, a global community active in over 600 cities across 125 countries, operates the Cambodia chapter to strengthen collaboration and drive innovation within the Kingdom’s startup ecosystem.
