Deep Tech Unicorns: How Scientific R&D Accelerates Growth
In Europe, deep tech startups reach unicorn status, valuations exceeding US$1 billion, in an average of 5 years and 7 months. By contrast, conventional tech startups take 7 years and 11 months. The finding, presented by Fauzan Adziman, Director General of Research and Development (Risbang), at the Danantara Technology Innovation & Investment Forum (DTIIF) 2026, draws from PitchBook data analyzed by McKinsey.
The edge of deep tech lies in proprietary, hard-to-replicate core technologies and their scalability across high-impact sectors like energy, food, and healthcare. This creates a long-term moat that enables sustainable economic value.
Yet in Indonesia, industry participation in national R&D spending remains low, only 16.7% of the total in 2022. This gap means most companies remain technology adopters, not innovators.
For Indonesia to breed its own unicorns faster, the ecosystem must shift from passive users to active builders. This requires stronger integration between industry, universities, and research institutions.
Key takeaway: achieving unicorn status in deep tech isn't about speed alone, it's about depth of science, strategic collaboration, and long-term investment in R&D. The next move? Build partnerships with academic and research organizations to turn breakthroughs into scalable ventures.
Sumber: KalderaNews, 30 October 2026
