Key Takeaways
- Jansen Teng is the CEO and co-founder of Virtuals Protocol, a decentralized platform for AI agent ownership and management.
- In 2015, Teng launched CIPTA, connecting investors with Malaysian students in the UK and funding student-led entrepreneurial projects.
- From 2018 to 2021, Teng worked at BCG, advising clients on digital banking, data analytics, and market research.
Who Is Jansen Teng?
Jansen Teng is the CEO and co-founder of Virtuals Protocol, a decentralized platform that supports the shared ownership and management of AI agents across different applications. Teng earned his BSc in Biotechnology and Business Management from Imperial College London in 2018. During his time at Imperial, he was the president of the Imperial College Union Malaysian Society, focusing on student development and well-being.
Early Career In Entrepreneurship
In 2015, Jansen Teng started CIPTA, a platform designed to connect investors with Indonesian students studying in the UK. The platform also offered financial support for creative student-led projects, promoting business ideas and technological progress within the student community.
Solving Water Shortages
Noticing the need for better environmental solutions, Teng co-founded ThinAir Water in 2016. The company developed technology that pulls water from the air, inspired by nature, to help with water shortages. He worked with a skilled team and played a big part in the startup’s early success, winning awards in several competitions.
Research in Genetic Engineering
During his time as an undergraduate at Imperial College London, Teng began research in 2017, studying genetic engineering to improve how water forms. His work focused on enhancing condensation methods, helping develop better ways to manage water in an eco-friendly manner.
Growing Businesses with Digital Marketing
Teng co-founded DIAM Digital Marketing in 2019, a company that used data-focused advertising to support real estate businesses. He played a key role in improving ad strategies and growing the company, helping clients strengthen their online reach and connect with more customers. In 2020, he took a step further into AI-powered real estate solutions by co-founding Aidaro, a platform that used big data and machine learning to make home searches smarter and more personalized.
Consulting Experience at BCG
Teng started his consulting journey in 2018 as an associate at Boston Consulting Group (BCG). He later moved up to senior associate and consultant, handling major projects across Southeast Asia. His work covered data analysis, digital banking licenses, and industry market research. He actively guided clients on digital strategies, regulatory requirements, and improving business operations.
Co-Founding Virtuals Protocol
In 2021, Teng entered the decentralized world by co-founding Virtuals Protocol. The project is dedicated to building AI systems and virtual spaces without central control, allowing communities to own and manage AI agents collectively. Through this project, Teng continues to explore new ways to improve AI and blockchain technology.
AI-powered gaming with Virtuals Protocol
In an interview on the Mindplex Podcast, Teng explained how Virtuals Protocol brings AI-driven characters to life in gaming. Users can collaborate on AI personalities by contributing data on voice, movement, and behavior, earning ownership through smart contracts. These AI agents react in real-time to players, making the gameplay more interactive.
Investment and Startup Advisory Roles
Along with starting his own businesses, Teng supports startups and investment projects, mainly in tech and sustainability. He helps new companies with fundraising, growth, and entering markets. His knowledge of AI, blockchain, and data-driven strategies makes him a helpful guide for businesses starting out.
Shaping Tech and Finance in Southeast Asia
Through his work at Boston Consulting Group and his own startups, Teng has played a part in advancing digital finance and technology in Southeast Asia. His efforts in digital banking, data analysis, and market research have helped fintech companies grow, adapt to regulations, and connect AI-focused solutions across different industries.
Future Focus and Industry Influence
Teng remains dedicated to exploring AI, blockchain, and decentralized applications. His work with Virtuals Protocol places him at the front of AI governance and virtual economies, influencing how decentralized intelligence develops. By combining business strategy, technology, and research, he is set to make new progress in AI and Web3.
Final Thoughts
Jansen Teng’s journey shows his dedication to using technology, business, and research to solve real problems. From launching startups to working on water solutions, digital marketing, and AI, he has always looked for new ways to make an impact.
His work with Virtuals Protocol focuses on building AI systems that people can own and manage together. As he keeps exploring AI, blockchain, and digital economies, his influence will continue to grow, shaping the future of technology and business.
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