Igniting Innovation: Philippine Startup Week 2024 Unites Ecosystem Players for Sustainable Growth

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The Philippine Startup Ecosystem


The Philippine startup ecosystem is set to ignite a new wave of innovation and collaboration as the country gears up for the 6th edition of the Philippine Startup Week (PHSW) from November 11-15, 2024. Organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), this year's event promises to be a powerful convergence of stakeholders united under a common goal - to elevate and accelerate Filipino innovation for sustainable growth and global competitiveness in Southeast Asia.

With the theme "ISA Para sa Bayan: Igniting Filipino Innovation," the five-day conference will serve as a platform for the government, private sector, and NGOs to come together and drive the Philippines' startup ecosystem forward. The week-long event will feature a series of activities happening at multiple venues nationwide, connecting the startup community and shaping the future of the region's startup landscape.

Key discussions will focus on AI and other emerging technologies, and integrating sustainability in innovations and business practices. PHSW24 will also feature sessions from the ISA Steering Committee Founding Agencies, highlighting their accomplishments for the year and their plans for the startup ecosystem and community in the coming years.

Some of the highlight events include the return of Geeks on a Beach, an international conference that aims to drive discussions about the future of technology and innovation in Southeast Asia; the "Startup Pinay x Founder" conference, which provides a platform for empowering female innovators and entrepreneurs; and "Greennovation Nation," a session dedicated to exploring sustainability in business and innovation, all co-organized to spotlight the year's most promising Filipino startups.

The event will also witness the second edition of the "MMIC Startup Awards," recognizing the "Game Changing Startups for 2024" that have made significant strides in the industry.

Throughout the week, community events will also take place nationwide to drive regional startup growth and foster collaboration within the broader startup ecosystem. Partners including Villigro Philippines, ICEBOX TBI, Cebrro, Exptron, TOMASINNO Center - University of Santo Tomas (UST), ASEAN Manila, Eskwelabs, Geeks.PH, New Energy Nexus Philippines, Startup Village, TechInAsia, Viwawani Foundation, Startup QC, Ateneo Blue Nest, Batangas State University, and others will spearhead these events, bringing together over 2,000 in-person attendees across the country, 150+ speakers, and 120+ startups.

These events exemplify the collaborative spirit and diversity of the Filipino startup ecosystem, enabling attendees to learn, interact, network, and collaborate across five tracks: Discover, Develop, Collaborate, Invest, and Showcase.

"The sixth edition of Philippine Startup Week aims to broaden our horizon by not only fostering innovation within the Philippines but also strengthening connections across Southeast Asia. With funding investments for Filipino startups on the rise after the 'funding winter,' we are committed to empowering local entrepreneurs to make a significant impact in the region," said Usec Leah Buendia of DOST and the ISA Chairwoman.

The Philippine Startup Week 2024 is made possible with the support of several partners and sponsors.

Building a Sustainable Startup Ecosystem: The Role of DICT and the IIDB

Wazzup Pilipinas!?


As the Philippine startup ecosystem continues to expand, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) plays an instrumental role in fostering sustainable growth through initiatives that encourage innovation, job creation, and digital transformation. Under the guidance of the ICT Industry Development Bureau (IIDB), DICT has implemented various strategies to support the startup community and ensure the country's global competitiveness in the digital economy.



The DICT's Mission and IIDB's Role in Shaping the ICT Landscape

The DICT is dedicated to planning, developing, and promoting the national ICT agenda to support the sustainable growth of the ICT-enabled industries. Through this agenda, DICT aims to create jobs and enhance the Philippines' standing as an innovation hub in Asia.

The IIDB serves as a vital arm of the DICT, working to develop a resilient ICT industry ecosystem by implementing interventions that:


Institutional Development: Collaborate with public and private sectors to drive job opportunities, innovation, and digital entrepreneurship.

Policies and Regulations: Shape the regulatory environment to foster a fair and growth-oriented marketplace.

Capability Development: Provide education and training to equip the workforce with essential skills for digital careers, including software development, AI, and data analytics.

Marketing & Promotions: Promote ICT-enabled services, especially in rural areas, to raise awareness of the opportunities in this growing sector.



The Innovative Startup Act: Empowering Filipino Innovators

The passage of Republic Act No. 11337, also known as the Innovative Startup Act, marked a turning point for the startup community in the Philippines. This law provided a structured approach to support startups, offering benefits and resources designed to drive innovation and enable growth. DICT, alongside other lead agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), actively promotes the Philippine Startup Development Program (PSDP). This initiative aims to create an environment where local innovations can flourish, evolve into actual products, and scale to global markets.



Comprehensive Support Throughout the Startup Journey

The IIDB has crafted a series of initiatives that support entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey, from ideation to product development and scaling.

Philippine Startup Ecosystem Thrives with Government Support

The Philippine government, through the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), is playing a pivotal role in fostering the growth and development of the country's startup ecosystem. The PSDP (Philippine Startup Development Program) gears the ISA (Information and Communications Technology Office of the Department of Science and Technology, the Development Bank of the Philippines, and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority) agencies to support research and development, promote participation in local and international events and competitions, collaboration, and the overall growth of enterprises.

The joint administrative order signed by the executives of the three leading agencies overseeing the PSDP, as mandated by RA 11337 or the Innovative Startup Act, has been a prominent initiative to provide comprehensive support for startups across all stages of their development.

The DICT, through its Startup Program - the Digital Startup Development and Acceleration Program (DSDAP), aims to further widen and enrich the startup ecosystem by providing adequate support and opportunities for aspiring and established startups alike. This aligns with the government's broader goal of stimulating the growth of technology-based startups in the country.

Notably, the Philippines has been recognized as one of the most dynamic economies in the East Asia and Pacific Regions, with the Startup Ecosystem being a significant driver of economic growth. The country's startup ecosystem has recently been ranked 60th globally and maintained its 6th position among Asian countries, according to the Startup Blink report. Additionally, five Philippine cities continue to climb the top 1000 cities list worldwide, further showcasing the country's vibrant startup landscape.

While there have been slight downturns in the said lists, the DICT remains committed to further enhancing the startup ecosystem in the Philippines. The agency's aspirations for a vibrant future of the startup ecosystem are proven to be attainable by the continuous growth in numbers in terms of funding. In 2021, the estimated total funds raised by startups in the Philippines amounted to a total of 1.03 Billion Dollars, and this is projected to increase through the years.

The DSDAP aims to achieve the following objectives: stimulate the growth of technology-based startups, develop and promote local startup ecosystems, and extend ample, appropriate, and accessible support to startups in the countryside. These strategic initiatives underscore the Philippine government's unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving and inclusive startup environment that can drive economic growth and innovation.


Here’s how DICT has been empowering Filipino startups:


Awareness and Knowledge Sharing:

DICT provides knowledge-sharing opportunities and awareness programs to build capabilities within the local startup ecosystem.

Funding Support:

Startups can access grants and incentives, helping reduce the financial burden during the critical early stages.


Information Gateway:

Establishing a platform that connects startups with investors and enablers.


Strategic Partnerships:

Working closely with venture capitalists and other startup enablers to create a supportive network.


Economic Growth Contributions:

By fostering a robust startup environment, the DICT aims to attract investors, contributing to a healthier and more dynamic economy.

These initiatives align with the department’s mission to position the Philippines as a viable and attractive destination for technology-driven investments.

DICT's Strategic Initiatives to Empower Startups

The IIDB has plotted a detailed roadmap known as the "Startup Founders' Journey," with initiatives aimed at addressing the specific needs of Filipino entrepreneurs. Some of the key programs under this roadmap include:


SCALE (Startup Community and Locale Enhancement):

Focuses on startup mapping activities, helping identify and engage local startup communities.

RAISE (Raising Awareness and Inspiring the Startup Ecosystem):

Offers learning modules and events such as Philippine Startup Week and Geeks on a Beach to cultivate industry knowledge and engagement.

STEP UP (Startup-Tailored Empowerment and People-focused Upskilling):

This is the acceleration component, which includes initiatives like the Philippine Startup Challenge, empowering startups through skills training.

Startup Grant Fund (SGF):

Supports early-stage startups with funding and coaching, allowing them to refine their concepts or minimum viable products.

Startup Philippines Website:

A dedicated portal offering a one-stop shop for startup resources, information, and support.



Milestones of DICT's 2024 Startup Development Initiatives

In 2024, DICT’s startup development initiatives, led by the DSDAP (Digital Startup Development Acceleration Program), achieved notable accomplishments, enhancing the local startup ecosystem significantly:


Six (6) Startup Ecosystem Maps Developed:

These maps provide valuable insights into the existing startup communities, allowing stakeholders to understand local trends and opportunities better.

Twenty-One (21) Startup Grant Beneficiaries: 

Funding and mentorship were granted to startups with innovative and viable ideas, giving them the boost they needed.

Sixty-One (61) Awareness and Enrichment Activities:

 
These initiatives reached thousands of participants, spreading essential knowledge and inspiration across the ecosystem.

Two (2) Regionalized Startup Acceleration Projects: 

These projects engaged twenty startup acceleration teams, providing intensive support and guidance.

13,014 Participants in Enrichment Activities:

Over 13,000 individuals participated in DICT-led startup enrichment sessions, reflecting strong community interest and engagement.

Philippine Startup Challenge:

Over its nine-year run, the challenge has brought together 2,861 participants from 214 academic institutions, resulting in 783 submissions from aspiring entrepreneurs.


The Future of Philippine Startups:

 

Building a Resilient Ecosystem

The achievements of 2024 demonstrate DICT's unwavering commitment to building a robust and sustainable startup ecosystem in the Philippines. Through the collaborative efforts of government agencies, industry leaders, and aspiring entrepreneurs, the Philippines is steadily establishing itself as a hub for digital innovation in Asia.

With continued support, mentorship, and funding, Filipino startups have the potential to make significant impacts on both local and global scales. DICT’s initiatives not only equip startups with the tools they need but also encourage a culture of innovation, positioning the Philippines as an emerging leader in the global digital economy.

This highlights DICT's role in nurturing the startup ecosystem, showcasing how the government’s support creates a fertile ground for digital innovation and growth in the Philippines.

Karaoke Manekineko Celebrates Eko Cheras Branch's 7th Anniversary with Exclusive Promotions!

To mark its 7th anniversary, Karaoke Manekineko at Eko Cheras is rolling out unbeatable pricing for a limited time. Guests can enjoy karaoke at RM11++ per hour or RM15++ for a three-hour session, valid all day and every day of the week. Additionally, celebrate with a special RM50++ offer for a bucket of five Carlsberg or Royal Stout beers.

Karaoke Manekineko is excited to celebrate the 7th anniversary of its Eko Cheras branch with special promotions that are too good to miss! As a way to thank loyal patrons and welcome new faces, we’re offering exclusive discounted rates for a limited time. Now, customers can enjoy karaoke sessions at incredible prices: only RM11++ per person for a one-hour session or RM15++ per person for a three-hour session. These rates are available all day and all week, giving guests the flexibility to celebrate whenever it’s convenient for them.

In addition to affordable karaoke, Karaoke Manekineko is also bringing you a fantastic beer promotion. For only RM50++, customers can get a bucket of five bottles of Carlsberg or Royal Stout. This special offer is perfect for groups looking to enhance their karaoke experience with refreshing drinks, adding more fun to the music-filled environment. Whether you're gathering with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or just looking to unwind after a long day, this promotion allows you to enjoy quality time and great value.

Since opening its doors seven years ago, the Eko Cheras branch has been a favorite spot for karaoke lovers in the area, known for its vibrant atmosphere, high-quality sound systems, and comfortable private rooms that provide a cozy space for groups of all sizes. We are proud to have become a popular entertainment destination in Eko Cheras, and this anniversary promotion is a way for us to show appreciation to our customers for their continued support.

Whether you’re a long-time karaoke enthusiast or a newcomer, this is the perfect opportunity to experience the joy of karaoke at unbeatable prices. Enjoy the freedom to choose your favorite songs, sing your heart out, and create unforgettable memories with friends and family. Don’t miss out on this anniversary celebration—head over to Karaoke Manekineko Eko Cheras and take advantage of these fantastic deals!

Please note that all prices are subject to an additional SST of 8% and a 10% service charge.

Be sure to follow Karaoke Manekineko’s social media channels to stay updated on this promotion and other exciting offers.

About Koshidaka International KL Sdn Bhd

Koshidaka International was incorporated in 2021 at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia as a full subsidiary of Koshidaka Holdings. The company serves as a management consultancy arm for the Karaoke Manekineko operations in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. Karaoke Manekineko is a friendly and safe environment for Karaoke that is designed to accommodate a diverse range of customers, from families with young children to groups of friends and corporate teams.