The Department of Science and Technology’s Strategic and Collaborative Alliance for Leveraging Ecosystems of Startups – National Capital Region (SCALE NCR) has launched several initiatives to improve the startup environment in Metro Manila. The NCR Local Government Unit (LGU) Mapping project, led by De La Salle Animo Labs, is a key part of this effort. The mapping project will assess 17 cities in the region to identify opportunities for collaboration.
This will support the development of a five-year Startup Development Roadmap. The project is part of DOST’s Regional Startup Enablers for Ecosystem Development (ReSEED) Program. Russell Pili, chief science research specialist at DOST-PCIEERD, said, “By empowering more startups to take root and flourish, we aim to create a ripple effect that will inspire a new wave of innovation and strengthen our economy.
The mapping will evaluate factors such as the number of startups, incubators, accelerators, and programs in each LGU.
This information will help identify areas where support is needed to foster startup growth. SCALE NCR also announced the launch of the Startup Institute in September 2024.
Scaling startup development in Metro Manila
The institute will provide training to early-stage startups, helping them develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. In addition, SCALE NCR is establishing the NCR Investors Network. This network will connect startups with potential investors and provide insights into investment trends.
This will help startups secure the funding they need to grow and scale their businesses. Another key event is the NCR TBI Summit, which SCALE NCR will host in October 2024. The summit will focus on collaboration and innovation for startups and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in urban settings.
The goal is to further boost Metro Manila’s status in the global startup ecosystem. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to create a more supportive environment for startups in the Philippines. By providing training, funding, and networking opportunities, SCALE NCR aims to help startups overcome the challenges they face and achieve success in the competitive global market.
