In pursuit of its objective to strengthen the startup culture and ecosystem in the Philippines, the Department of Science and Technology- Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) launched three (3) University-based technology business incubators in Davao Region, namely UMAsenso Hub of the University of Mindanao, AGILAB of the University of Southeastern Philippines, and UPGrADE InnoLab of the University of the Philippines- Mindanao, last 20 September 2019 at the Grand Men Seng Hotel, Magallanes Street, Davao City.
The three (3) TBIs were established under the Higher Education Institution Readiness for Innovation and Technology (HEIRIT) Program of the DOST. The said program aims to provide mentorship, training, and incubation program to startup enthusiasts in Davao Region by raising startups that are expected to generate jobs and support the economy of the country in the future. Each Incubator hosts different banner programs. UPGrADE InnoLab’s banner program focuses on Information and Communication Technology in Sustainable Food Systems.
UPGrADE InnoLab also hopes to encourage students, faculty, and researchers to make their academic researches gear towards commercialization. However, it is also encouraging entrepreneurs and startups enthusiasts within the Davao Region to submit its startup’s idea to UPGRADE for screening and possible incubation.
Davao City government and private agencies, including DCCI, DICT-XI, DTI-XI, DOST XI, Kadena Hub, and RAD Green Solutions, witnessed the event.
