Driving Filipino Innovations Forward: PROPEL Launched to Accelerate Technology Transfer and Commercialization

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The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in the Philippines is set to launch a transformative program aimed at driving science, technology, and innovation initiatives forward. Dubbed "PROPEL," this comprehensive support platform is designed to empower Filipino innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs by consolidating and enhancing access to funding, mentorship, and global commercialization opportunities.

The program launch, scheduled for December 4, 2024, at the Manila Hotel in Manila City, underscores DOST's commitment to fostering an innovation ecosystem that promotes human well-being, economic growth, and sustainability. PROPEL, which stands for "Accelerating Innovations in the Philippines," aims to bridge Philippine innovations with international markets, fast-tracking local enterprises towards global recognition.

"PROPEL will serve as a gateway for successful technology transfer and commercialization, propelling Filipino innovations forward to both local and global markets," emphasized DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. as he shared the significance of this initiative.

As the Department's dynamic commercialization arm, PROPEL is dedicated to transforming groundbreaking science and technology innovations into thriving global enterprises. The program also emphasizes collaboration between the public and private sectors to address critical gaps in the country's innovation ecosystem.

The event is expected to gather attendees from national government offices, diplomatic corps, academic institutions, business sectors, and the community of scientists and innovators. It will feature cutting-edge technologies and innovations from DOST-supported universities and research and development institutes, underscoring the Department's commitment to empowering Filipino innovators.

"The launch of PROPEL will mark a pivotal moment for the country's science and technology community," said DOST Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization Napoleon K. Juanillo, Jr. "By enabling innovators to scale their ideas and enterprises, DOST is driving forward its vision of propelling Filipino innovations to global success."

PROPEL's Comprehensive Support Platform

PROPEL is designed to unify DOST's resources, providing strategic guidance, facilitating access to funding, markets, and scientific expertise to Filipino innovators. The program bridges Philippine innovations with international markets, fast-tracking local enterprises towards global recognition.

Key features of the PROPEL program include:Mobilizing Existing Services and Programs: PROPEL will consolidate and enhance access to the Department's existing services, facilities, and programs, including:

Market-driven R&D
DOST Knowledge Banks from all Regional Institutes
Sectoral Councils
DOST-PAGASA and DOST-PHIVOLCS
Technology Business Incubations
Licensing and Global Funding Network Enabling University-based and Community-based Innovations: 

PROPEL will support both university-based and community-based science and technology enterprises and innovators.

This includes:

Scientists, researchers, and innovators from local and foreign universities or research organizations

Filipino scientists, researchers, and innovators from local universities or research organizations

Non-university members such as community-based scientists, researchers, and innovators 

Showcasing and Exhibiting Innovations: 

PROPEL will provide platforms for innovators to showcase and exhibit their products and solutions, both locally and globally, through various channels, including:

DOST's regional and industry-led innovation hubs (iHUBs)

Technology Business Incubation and Acceleration programs

Global exhibitions and trade shows

Fostering Collaboration and Networking: 

PROPEL will facilitate networking and collaboration opportunities for stakeholders, enabling the sharing of knowledge, resources, and best practices. This includes:Connecting innovators with potential partners, investors, and customers
Organizing events, workshops, and mentorship programs

Providing access to intellectual property (IP) management services

By consolidating and enhancing DOST's existing resources, PROPEL aims to empower Filipino innovators, accelerate the commercialization of science and technology-driven solutions, and propel the country's innovations to global success.

As the Philippines continues its journey towards technological advancement and economic growth, the launch of the PROPEL program marks a significant milestone in the nation's pursuit of fostering a vibrant and inclusive innovation ecosystem. With its comprehensive support platform, PROPEL is poised to unlock the vast potential of Filipino creativity and entrepreneurship, driving the country's transformation into a regional and global hub for cutting-edge innovations.

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