Cambodia Investment Review
Cambodia’s startup ecosystem has a new addition focused on shaping the next generation of innovators. The inaugural Young Founder Launchpad has officially launched in Siem Reap, providing high school students with hands-on entrepreneurial training designed to transform them from job seekers into job creators.
Fostering Entrepreneurial Skills from the Ground Up
The eight-week initiative, co-funded by Mission Alliance and Khmer Enterprise (KE) in partnership with the University of South-East Asia (USEA) and implemented by ELIX Organization, aims to instill entrepreneurial thinking and technical skills early in a student’s education.
From over 200 applicants, 48 students were selected for the program’s first cohort. Participants will receive intensive training covering idea generation, prototyping, financial literacy, and pitching. The program also provides ongoing mentorship through 13 university peer mentors and private-sector professionals.
By the end of the course, students are expected to develop fully formed business concepts, presenting their ideas to a panel of industry experts.
Building Cambodia’s Future Job Creators
Mr. Chanda Pen, CEO of ELIX Organization, described the initiative as a vital step in nurturing local talent for Cambodia’s evolving digital economy. “ELIX Organization is excited to introduce the Young Founder Launchpad, a program to empower Cambodia’s youth to build the skills they need to succeed and lead in tomorrow’s world,” said Chanda. “Together with Mission Alliance, Khmer Enterprise, and USEA, we’re offering a space where young people can explore ideas, think creatively, and become innovators in a changing workforce.”
ELIX, a local nonprofit organization and implementing partner of the Digital Workforce Development (DWD) project, has been instrumental in developing programs that bridge education and employability in Cambodia’s digital era.
Collaboration for Long-Term Impact
Mr. San Mos, Project Manager and Leadership Representative of Mission Alliance Cambodia, emphasized the organization’s focus on self-reliance and empowerment. “This program aligns with our global mission of empowering people to shape their own futures,” he noted. “By nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in young people, we are investing in a brighter, more self-sufficient future for Cambodia.”
Khmer Enterprise, a key national platform supporting entrepreneurial development, also underscored its commitment to building a resilient startup ecosystem. By engaging high school students directly, KE aims to expand the foundation of innovation and job creation across Cambodia’s provinces.
A New Chapter for Youth Innovation
The Young Founder Launchpad’s first cohort begins in October, marking an important milestone for Cambodia’s youth entrepreneurship movement. Through workshops, mentorship, and practical business development exercises, students will gain the confidence and tools to navigate the digital economy and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
With continued collaboration among development partners and private sector mentors, the program is expected to inspire a generation of young Cambodians ready to build, innovate, and lead.
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