AI Startups in Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s Tech Future

Phnom Penh is rapidly emerging as a vibrant hub for artificial intelligence (AI) innovation in Southeast Asia. With a burgeoning startup ecosystem, supportive government initiatives, and a growing pool of tech talent, Cambodia’s capital is positioning itself at the forefront of AI development.

The Rise of AI in Phnom Penh

In recent years, Cambodia has witnessed a significant uptick in AI-related activities. The number of tech startups more than doubled between 2022 and 2024, from 54 to 119, indicating a robust growth trajectory in sectors like fintech and e-commerce . This surge is complemented by government-backed initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and digital transformation.Nucamp

Prominent AI Startups in Phnom Penh

Several AI startups are making notable strides in Phnom Penh:

• DIGICRO: An AI-based microloan platform that offers financial services through a mobile app, facilitating quick and accessible loans ranging from $50 to $1,000. Founded in 2018, DIGICRO has secured $300K in seed funding and continues to expand its reach .Tech & Data VC+1globalindiannetwork.com+1

• Sousdey: Specializing in AI-driven chat-based marketing solutions, Sousdey provides businesses with tools to engage customers via Facebook Messenger. Their services include automated messaging, customer profiling, and analytics .Nucamp+2Tech & Data VC+2Tech & Data VC+2Tech & Data VC

• PAPA Deliver: An AI-enabled delivery management platform that streamlines logistics through automated pickup and delivery solutions, real-time tracking, and route optimization .Tech & Data VC+1Tech & Data VC+1

• Auto2call: Offering AI-based chatbot solutions, Auto2call assists businesses in enhancing customer experience through intelligent virtual agents for telesales, telemarketing, and customer care .Tech & Data VC+1Tech & Data VC+1

• AI Cambodia Gallery: An AI-powered platform facilitating the sale of stock photos online, catering to the growing demand for digital content .Tech & Data VC

Educational and Governmental Support

The Cambodian government and educational institutions are playing a pivotal role in nurturing AI talent and innovation:

• Day of AI 2025: Organized by Sisters of Code, this event brought together educators, innovators, and policymakers to discuss ethical AI applications and launched a Generative AI Guidebook to shape the future of learning in Cambodia .startupcambodia.gov.kh

• STI Day 2025: The National Science, Technology, and Innovation Day focused on nurturing talent and strengthening Cambodia’s innovation ecosystem, with discussions on AI’s role in achieving the country’s vision of becoming a high-income nation by 2050 .misti.gov.kh

• AI Integration in Education: Universities in Phnom Penh are increasingly incorporating AI and machine learning into their curricula, preparing a new generation of tech-savvy professionals .BytePlus

Challenges and Opportunities

While the AI landscape in Phnom Penh is promising, it faces certain challenges:

• Talent Shortage: Despite a youthful population, there is a shortage of skilled professionals in areas like software development and digital marketing. Efforts are underway to address this through STEM education and training programs .Cambodianess

• Access to Capital: Limited access to funding remains a hurdle for many startups. Initiatives like Khmer Enterprise aim to bridge this gap by providing financial support and resources to budding entrepreneurs .Cambodianess

Despite these challenges, opportunities abound:

• Strategic Location: Cambodia’s position in Southeast Asia offers startups access to a regional market of over 600 million people, enhancing their growth potential.Cambodianess

• Government Support: Proactive policies and initiatives are creating a conducive environment for AI innovation and entrepreneurship.

Conclusion

Phnom Penh’s AI startup ecosystem is on an upward trajectory, driven by innovative enterprises, supportive policies, and a commitment to technological advancement. As the city continues to invest in education, infrastructure, and innovation, it is poised to become a significant player in the global AI landscape.