CEO Fumiko Named to Forbes Japan “Women in Tech 30”
We are proud to announce that our CEO, Fumiko Inada, has been selected for the 2026 edition of Forbes Japan’s “Women in Tech 30,” recognising 30 women who are transforming the world through technology.
Cover Image Source: Forbes JAPAN, March 2026 issue “20 HOT CREATORS in the Evolving Creator Economy”
About “Women in Tech 30”
Launched in Japan in 2024, “Women in Tech 30” highlights women making significant strides in the technology sector. The 2026 edition marks its second time, with 30 leaders selected based on recommendations from a 19-member advisory board.
The initiative aims to increase the visibility of women and gender minorities in technology and to showcase their achievements and journeys, providing inspiration and role models for the next generation of innovators.
While progress is being made, Japan continues to lag behind countries such as the United States and other advanced economies in terms of women’s participation in technology fields. Various data1) sets indicate that gender disparities in STEM and IT-related industries remain a pressing issue.
At the same time, Japan appears to be entering a transitional phase. Government bodies, academic institutions, and private sector organisations are increasingly recognising gender diversity in technology as a key societal priority, leading to broader and more coordinated efforts across sectors.
Bee Informatica’s Journey and the Possible Factors Behind the Recognition
Bee Informatica was founded in 2019, inspired by a social finance model introduced in Bangladesh about 15 years earlier. The vision was deeply influenced by Professor Muhammad Yunus and the work of Grameen Bank2), as well as the development initiatives led by Fazle Hasan Abed through BRAC3).
Motivated by the belief that these microfinance principles could be further enhanced through digital innovation, Bee Informatica was established in Malaysia to deliver inclusive financial services to underserved small businesses.
Recent customer interviews have reaffirmed our mission. Many entrepreneurs shared that rapid access to financing through our platform became a turning point in their business growth. By serving segments traditionally underserved by conventional banks, and by combining speed with simplicity, Bee Informatica has steadily expanded its impact.
Our Perspective on Why We Were Selected
While the final decision rests with the organisers, we believe several factors may have contributed to the recognition:
- Addressing the persistent financing gap faced by small businesses in emerging markets
- Fully digitising the end-to-end process — from application and underwriting to disbursement and collection — enhances both operational efficiency and customer experience
- Leveraging AI-driven credit assessment and recovery processes to strengthen risk management
- Building a diverse global team representing three countries and five ethnic backgrounds
- Maintaining a long-term default rate4) below 1% despite operating on an unsecured, no-guarantor model
- Conducting continuous research in preparation for future market expansion
- Demonstrating resilience and persistence in fundraising and business operations, even during challenging periods
These achievements are not standalone initiatives but the result of consistent decision-making anchored in the principle of financial inclusion. We believe this long-term commitment and coherence in our strategy may have contributed to the honour.
Looking Ahead
Around the world, countless small businesses continue to miss growth opportunities due to limited access to bank financing.
Bee Informatica remains committed to expanding access to fast and accessible digital micro-financing solutions. By gradually narrowing the financial access gap, we aim to contribute to a world where entrepreneurs everywhere have a fair opportunity to grow and succeed.
Reference
2. Biography of Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus
4. Default Rate (Japan Risk Data Bank Co., Ltd.)
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