In a world where the pace of innovation and business is relentless, one initiative stands out in its quest to empower emerging business leaders: the ATX+INDONESIA Training Program for Entrepreneurs. Among the distinguished participants of this elite program was Rifqi Al-Ghifari, the Chief Business Officer of BANANA & Partners, who embarked on a transformative journey under the aegis of Texas Global at The University of Texas at Austin.

The program, a brainchild of The University of Texas at Austin, was meticulously crafted to empower entrepreneurs with its hallmark Innovation Readiness® Training. The initiative was not just an academic venture but a crucible of innovation, designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of U.S. business operations and personalized mentorship from industry stalwarts. The collaboration with Universitas Gadjah Mada and YLabs Institute as co-implementing partners in Indonesia brought a unique local context to this global initiative.

From a pool of over 150 applicants, only 20 entrepreneurs were selected for this prestigious program, with BANANA & Partners being one of the few to receive this honor. The selection was a testament to the vision and potential seen in these businesses, marking the beginning of a journey that promised growth, learning, and transformation.

The ATX+INDONESIA Training Program was not just about imparting knowledge; it was about creating leaders of change. The participants underwent the Innovation Readiness® Training from the globally recognized University of Texas at Austin. They engaged in one-on-one mentoring sessions, absorbing wisdom from seasoned business leaders and academic visionaries. The in-person training at Universitas Gadjah Mada in January 2024 was a culmination of this learning journey, marked by the conferral of a completion certificate.

For Rifqi, this program was more than just a learning curve; it was an enlightening expedition. Under the guidance of Gary Anderson and Aimee Reed from the Global Innovation Hub Program, Rifqi gained invaluable insights into the core of building a resilient business. The presence of Mary Trechock, the Assistant Cultural Attaché from the U.S. Embassy, added a profound depth to the learning experience, elucidating the nuances of international business and cultural diplomacy.

The week-long stay in Yogyakarta (January 15-19, 2024) was not just academically enriching but also a fertile ground for networking. Rifqi, along with other participants, seized this opportunity to forge connections, share visions, and collaborate on future ventures.

As the program concluded, Rifqi reflected on this monumental experience with gratitude. Acknowledging the pivotal role played by the U.S. Embassy, The University of Texas at Austin, Gary Anderson, Aimee Reed, YLab Institute, UGM, and Innovative Academy UGM     , Rifqi recognized this journey as not just an educational experience but a catalyst for future entrepreneurial endeavors.

The ATX+INDONESIA Training Program for Entrepreneurs, through participants like Rifqi Al-Ghifari, is a testament to the power of learning, collaboration, and vision. As these entrepreneurs return to their ventures, they carry with them not just the knowledge and certificates but a renewed spirit to innovate, transform, and lead in the ever-evolving world of business.