EVFI and USM Collaborate for SOX Start-Up Ecosystem

The Entrepinoy Volunteers Foundation, Inc. (EVFI) and the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) have joined forces to cultivate innovation and entrepreneurship in the region on February 13, 2024. Held at the USM Skyroom, the collaboration aims to develop a Start-Up Ecosystem Roadmap thru the Technology Business Incubation of USM, with key stakeholders from the academe, industries, and government agencies participating in the initiative.

The focus of the partnership is to leverage the region’s resources and talent pool to stimulate economic growth and innovation. Discussions have encompassed critical areas such as the role of the university in the process of developing start-up enterprises, what is the university doing in the present, and what are its future plans. Mentorship programs, and networking opportunities for emerging start-ups were also discussed.

USM’s role as an educational institution brings valuable expertise and infrastructure to the table. Dr. Debbie Marie Verzosa, Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension (VPRDE) of USM, highlights the importance of the event, “while we shared insights as part of EVFI’s data gathering process, they also offered very good advice” said VPRDE Verzosa in an interview.

The EVFI team spearheaded by the former DOST Secretary Fortunato T. Dela Peña, expresses optimism about the outcomes, emphasizing a shared commitment to driving positive change in the region. Concrete action plans and initiatives are in the works to translate discussions into tangible results.

In addition , EVFI was tapped by the Startup Innovation Consortium to Accelerate Development in SOCCSKSARGEN (SICAD-SOX) with Ms. Giselle Eve O. Siladan as Director, and is actively engaging with key stakeholders to gather insights for the Start-Up Ecosystem Roadmap in SOCCSKSARGEN, ensuring inclusivity and diverse perspectives in its development.