THE Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) today launched the second cohort of its GROWMatch initiative, supporting 50 entrepreneurs from the agriculture and bio-based sectors by providing access to alternative financing through the capital market.
Since its launch in August 2024, GROWMatch has enabled entrepreneurs involved in foodtech, agtech, biotech, and bio-based industries to showcase their projects and explore funding options beyond traditional sources.
Participants also have the opportunity to pitch their ventures to investors including SC-registered equity crowdfunding (ECF) and peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms, as well as venture capital and private equity firms.
SC Chairman Datuk Mohammad Faiz Azmi emphasised the programme’s focus on impact.
“GROWMatch bridges the awareness gap and offers opportunities for underserved segments to utilise alternative financing for growth.
“We are grateful to our GROWMatch partners. Their participation enriches the ecosystem for developing agri-solutions in food security and sustainability, while providing businesses the visibility to scale.”
He added, as of June 2025, more than RM10 billion had been raised through ECF and P2P platforms, benefiting over 23,000 businesses. The programme has helped companies such as Entomal Biotech and Pacton Technologies secure follow-on funding and unlock new business opportunities.
With the theme “Tackling Industry Challenges to Strengthen Malaysia’s Food Security with Alternative Financing,” this year’s GROWMatch attracted over 70 applications, expanding its finalists from 20 to 50.
Among these entrepreneurs, 54 per cent presented climate-resilient farming solutions, 34 per cent focused on soil degradation, and 12 per cent on sustainable feed and livestock health.
“This cohort reflects innovation that directly supports Malaysia’s food production systems, whether through technology, sustainable practices, or smarter operations,” said the SC.
GROWMatch 2025 has evolved into a comprehensive programme featuring pitching workshops, capacity-building sessions, and alternative financing awareness to prepare early-stage MSMEs for investment readiness.
Key partners supporting the initiative include the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), and Invest Sabah Berhad. - September 18, 2025
