USMart TBI Inaugurated During DOST Sec. Solidum’s Milestone Visit to USM

Kabacan, Cotabato — August 30, 2025

The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) marked a historic milestone with the inauguration of the USMart Technology Business Incubator (TBI) Office, a dedicated hub for transforming research, ideas, and innovations into sustainable enterprises.

The inauguration coincided with the Milestone Visit of Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., whose presence underscored the national significance of advancing science and innovation in Mindanao.

Distinguished guests also joined the occasion, including DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho Maborrang, PAG-ASA Administrator Dr. Nathaniel T. Servando, North Cotabato 1st District Representative Cong. Edwin Cruzado, USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, DOST XII Regional Director Engr. Sammy P. Malawan, DOST 12 Cotabato Province Provincial Director Dr. Michael Ty Mayo, SICAD SOX Consortium Director PD Giselle Eve O. Siladan, DOST Planning Officer Mr. Roel Sancho, and LGU Kabacan Municipal Administrator Ben Guzman.

A keynote message was delivered by Ms. Russell M. Pili, Division Chief of the Research Information and Technology Transfer Division (RITTD) of DOST-PCIEERD, who emphasized the vital role of administration in sustaining and nurturing innovation. She reminded participants that while innovation takes time, it thrives with the right support — a message resonating with USMart TBI’s mission.

The event also served as a gathering of partners, incubatees, and guests, all symbolizing the collaborative spirit necessary to foster an innovation ecosystem.

The establishment of the USMart TBI Office was made possible through the support of DOST-PCIEERD, USM, and partner stakeholders. With this new hub, USMart TBI commits to:

• Nurturing startups and technopreneurs through mentorship, incubation, and funding opportunities;
• Strengthening technology transfer by connecting research outputs to industries and communities; and
• Building a dynamic innovation ecosystem that bridges academe, government, industry, and community for inclusive growth.

More than an office inauguration, the event signaled the beginning of a new chapter for USM and its partners — one that positions Mindanao at the forefront of science, technology, and innovation.