Even if you don’t know the name Gravel, you’re most likely aware of some of the major infrastructure projects it has supported. The startup’s portfolio includes a Greater Jakarta Light Rail Transit station, Jakarta International Stadium, Pelni Hospital and Keong Mas IMAX Theatre, in addition to a slew of local developments.
This is only the beginning for the construction technology company. Gravel has now raised US$14 million from notable investors, including New Enterprise Associates (NEA); Weili Dai, Co-Founder Marvell Technology Group; Lip-Bu Tan, Executive Chairman of Cadence Design System and Chairman of Walden International; SMDV; East Ventures; among others.
The backing strengthens Gravel’s ability to support Indonesia’s building boom. Its platform allows customers to connect with skilled construction workers. There is now a community of 1.7 million individuals who can find jobs from architects, contractors, material suppliers and other companies in the building sector.
“Our innovative strategy is not only about revolutionizing the industry but also about uplifting the lives of Indonesian construction workers across the country. I am extremely proud of Gravel’s accomplishments, as this is more than a business endeavor, it’s a mission with high social impact. Indonesia is just the beginning and the impact it brings can span globally,” Co-Founder and Chairman of Gravel, Dr. Nicholas Sutardja, explained.
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What’s next for construction tech startup Gravel?
Gravel launched in 2019 as an app to connect the building sector with skilled construction workers. Next up is developing tools to help anyone build, renovate and repair spaces efficiently by using technology to connect people with qualified construction workers, tools, building materials and experts.
“Through leadership and innovations, Gravel has broadened its horizons to manage the full spectrum of the construction process,” Georgi Ferdwindra Putra, Co-Founder and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Gravel, said. “From allocating architects or design studios to create building designs and drawings; selecting contractors suitable to licenses, permits, and budget allocation, deploying Gravel-verified workers of any trade skills, offering construction materials and tools throughout the process, all the way to providing maintenance service as buildings come to life to ensure they remain pristine—we empower owners and contractors across every stage of the construction process.”
These efforts are supported by the launch of four features in the Gravel app to address industry demands. There is Gravel Construction which focuses on hiring daily construction workers. Gravel Borongan takes care of construction with a lump sum contract. Meanwhile, Gravel Maintenance caters to instant home fixing and repairing services. Finally, Gravel Material is designed for tool and material procurement.
Another critical step for the company will be partnering with leading real estate developers in Indonesia. Gravel has said it is engaged in discussions with Sinarmas Land, the firm behind BSD City, Kota Deltamas and Grand Wisata development projects.
Why do investors believe in Gavel?
Indonesia has a huge construction industry with the government continuing to focus on large-scale infrastructure projects. This, along with Gravel’s strong and consistent growth, made the startup a very appealing investment opportunity.
“We believe there is strong talent and potential in Southeast Asia, and have been keeping an eye on the region for relevant investment opportunities,” Carmen Chang, Partner and Chairman and Head of Asia, NEA, stated. “Gravel is our first Southeast Asia investment and we’re excited about the company’s potential to elevate Indonesia’s construction industry through technology. We believe in the team’s drive to impact Indonesia as well as the global construction industry and look forward to partnering with them as they continue to build on their existing traction.”
This sentiment was shared by other firms that recently invested in Gravel.
“In Gravel, we see the embodiment of Indonesia’s digital future in construction. As Indonesia actively pursues even distribution of its developmental efforts across all provinces, Gravel’s technology emerges as a supporter and a driving force that can substantially amplify this nationwide growth. Gravel will become the key ally in promoting a growing Sinarmas ecosystem, through modern, sustainable construction practices that respond to evolving Sinarmas’ business developments,” Edward Judokusumo, Principal at SMDV, said. This approach not only aligns with the core values but also serves as a catalyst for progress in Sinarmas’ various sectors.”
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