The country’s largest startup conference, Philippine Startup Week, will have its fifth run on November 20 to 24, 2023. Facilitated by key government bodies—such as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)— it centers on the theme, “Investing in Filipino Homegrown Heroes as Global Game Changers” aimed at recognizing and propelling local talents onto the global stage.
An integral part of PSW this year is the 7th National Technology Business Incubator (TBI) Summit, which, for the first time, will be hosted by Iloilo City. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCIEERD), along with the DOST Region 6, Iloilo Science and Technology University, and UMWAD Western Visayas, are preparing for the much-anticipated summit for TBIs on November 21.
TBI, or Technology Business Incubation, is one of the strategies identified by the DOST to promote innovation and technopreneurship for the country’s socio-economic development in a knowledge-based world economy. It’s not merely a facility; it’s an ecosystem where innovation is nurtured, and startups are molded during their incubation journey to ensure that they emerge financially sustainable and equipped to thrive in the competitive market landscape.
The first TBI Summit was inaugurated seven years ago in Cebu City by the Philippine Council for Industry, Engineering and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD) of the DOST. The Summit featured educational sessions, group discussions, networking, and workshops for participating incubators and stakeholders. It was also when the Higher Education Institution Readiness for Innovation and Technopreneurship (HEIRIT) Program was launched. The HeIRIT program is aimed to make the country’s leading universities and academic institutions as catalysts for the country’s tech and startup ecosystem to grow and develop.
As it can be recalled, the Philippines’ startup scene began growing in the early 2000s, initially supported by mentorships and private incubators. Government involvement heightened around 2010, primarily by three vital government bodies: the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). During the 2nd National TBI Summit at the Manila Hotel, their collaboration culminated in a 2018 Memorandum Of Understanding aimed at enhancing assistance for startups, which fostered closer cooperation among the departments. This led to joint efforts on various significant events, including the 5th Philippine Startup Challenge, the RISE conference in Hong Kong, China, and the first-ever Philippine Startup Week, all held in 2019. The Philippine Startup Week, established as an annual event by the three departments in conjunction with QBO Innovation Hub, stands as a testament to their ongoing support for the startup ecosystem and was able to give birth to the Implementing Rules and Regulations for the Innovative Startup Act.
Over the years, the TBI Summit has evolved into an essential platform that continues to showcase innovative ideas, strategies, and industry expertise. It plays a crucial role in shaping and enhancing the entrepreneurial landscape in the Philippines, empowering entrepreneurs and startups to thrive in a competitive market. Subsequent summit editions have continued to evolve, focusing on fostering innovation, promoting public-private partnerships, and empowering the startup ecosystem in the Philippines.
This year, the 7th National TBI Summit takes on the theme: “Regional Startup Ecosystem: Nurturing Filipino Startups as Global Game Changers” and will be graced by DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. and DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development, Dr. Leah J. Buendia, along with other key executives from the department. Topics include fueling startup growth, exploring the ReSEED Program’s role in supporting regional ecosystems, and the collaborative efforts of incubators and accelerators in propelling homegrown startups to global success.
Notable figures, such as Ms. Jahleel-An Burao of Kaya Founders and Mr. Kentaro Machii from the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia, will deliver their key messages. The event also boasts panel discussions with eminent figures from the local industry, shedding light on ecosystem dynamics essential for raising startups. This diverse lineup of speakers is set to offer comprehensive perspectives and strategies, making the 7th TBI Summit an invaluable and enriching experience. For more details and registration, visit www.tbisummitph.com today.
