USM among 3.5% of Philippine HEIs with Technology Business Incubators; USMart TBI Launched

As one of 27 HEIs/SUCs chosen through a competitive selection process to be part of the 2022 Higher Education Institution Readiness for Innovation and Technopreneurship (HEIRIT)  program, the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) participated in intensive training programs in preparation of the establishment of a technology business incubator (TBI). This program is funded by the Department of Science and Technology Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD). The Council recognizes that universities can play an important role in regional development through technology business incubators (TBIs).

In July 2024, USM has successfully secured funding for the establishment of a TBI, which is expected to increase the entrepreneurial activities of start-up companies and incubatees by providing an ecosystem where startups, mentors and advisers and industry partners converge. Through funding and mentorship provided by DOST-PCIEERD, USM belongs to the leading 3.5% of higher education institutions in the Philippines with an established TBI within the university.

The soft launching was held at the USM Commercial Building on September 26, 2024. The launching was attended by Ms. Russell M. Pili, Chief of the Research Information and Technology Transfer Division of DOST-PCIEERD, Ms. Mary Rose Ofianga, WEN Ignite Program Manager of Wadhwani Foundation, Engr. Mohadjirin P. Matanog, representing Engr. Ibrahim B. Guiapar, Regional Director of the Department of Information and Communications Technology, Mr. Michael T. Mayo, representing Regional DOST Director Engr. Sammy P. Malawan, and Ms. Giselle Eve O. Siladan, SICAD-SOX Consortium Director. Also in attendance were USM President Francisco Gil N. Garcia, PhD., Vice President for Research, Development and Extension, Debbie Marie B. Verzosa, PhD., USMart TBI Project Leader Jalaloden B. Marohom, PhD., together with administrative council members, project staff, and potential incubatees.

Dr. Garcia expressed his eagerness to continue collaboration with DOST-PCIEERD. He also reaffirmed the university’s commitment and support towards the achievement of the project’s goals. Dr. Verzosa also commended the team for their dedication in navigating the lengthy process of capacity building and proposal revisions, which ultimately led to the successful securing of funds.”

During the launch, Ms. Pili outlined the HEIRIT program and emphasized the pivotal role of universities in fostering startups. She highlighted how the program empowers universities to drive regional development through innovation and technopreneurship, citing examples of successful ‘unicorns’ that have emerged from university-supported TBIs. Following this, Ms. Ofianga discussed the critical role of mentors in nurturing startups and creating lasting impact, while also presenting mentorship opportunities offered by the Wadhwani Foundation through the WEN Ignite Program.

Messages of support were also delivered during the launching. Mr. Mayo expressed confidence in the project’s success and its alignment with the vision of the DOST. Ms. Siladan congratulated USM for successfully navigating the rigorous process of securing funds for the USMart TBI under the HEIRIT program.