By Rowena T. Cruz Participants engage in collaborative discussions during the I2TEQ Project Phase 2 workshop at Lucena City Government Compl...
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| Participants engage in collaborative discussions during the I2TEQ Project Phase 2 workshop at Lucena City Government Complex, focusing on policy frameworks for sustainable startup growth in Quezon Province. (DTI Quezon) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Collaboration shaped economic development in Quezon Province on March 28, 2025, as the "I2TEQ Project: Incubation and Innovation of Tech-based Enterprises in Quezon Province," Phase 2, focused on developing "Policy Frameworks for Sustainable Startup Growth" at the Lucena City Government Complex, with over 50 participants attending.
Driven by Republic Act 11337, the Innovative Startup Act, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Quezon, in collaboration with Batangas State University's Innovation CONSortium of South Luzon (ICONS South Luzon), orchestrated the event. This initiative, part of the broader Philippine Startup Development Program, aimed to create a supportive policy environment for the region's tech-based enterprises and included representatives from 10 local government units.
The DTI, mandated to assess, monitor, develop, and expand the Philippine Startup Ecosystem, designed the I2TEQ Project to provide assistance, benefits, and incentives to startups and startup enablers within Quezon Province. A key component of the DTI’s strategy involves fostering regional startup ecosystems through localized programs like the I2TEQ Project.
As defined by the Implementing Rules and Regulations of R.A. 11337, a "startup" refers to any person or entity registered in the Philippines that seeks to develop an innovative product, process, or business model. "Startup enablers" include entities that provide critical support to startups, such as accelerators, incubators, co-working spaces, investors, and event organizers.
The I2TEQ Project, Phase 2, aimed to equip policymakers, business leaders, and stakeholders with the knowledge and tools necessary to develop effective and sustainable policies that support the growth of startups and MSMEs. This phase underscores the project's commitment to building a policy infrastructure that ensures long-term viability and scalability for tech-based enterprises in the region.
Participants gained actionable insights for crafting effective policies throughout the day’s proceedings, held at the 3rd Floor, SP Session Hall, Lucena City Government Complex, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Expert-led sessions explored strategies for cultivating a thriving innovation ecosystem, emphasizing collaboration, resource sharing, and the integration of digital technologies.
Dr. Maylen Eroa, Project Staff from ICONS South Luzon, led the session on "Building a Thriving Innovation Ecosystem: Strategies for Fostering Startup Culture in Quezon." This session focused on leveraging regional resources and academic expertise to drive local startup development.
Startup empowerment for sustainable growth became a focal point. Sessions, led by Ms. Sweetzelle Fabula from the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office, offered practical guidance on navigating entrepreneurial challenges and featured case studies of successful regional startups.
Interactive workshops formed a significant part of the event, allowing participants to contribute unique perspectives. This collaborative exchange ensured policies tailored to the local startup community's needs and resulted in several concrete policy recommendations.
Frameworks to support local businesses and complement national programs like the Philippine MSME Development Plan were the ultimate goal. This fostered a cohesive and supportive ecosystem, seeking to attract further investment into the region.
DTI Quezon and ICONS South Luzon concluded the event with a renewed commitment to champion tech-based enterprise growth. The event, which included welcoming remarks from Engr. Sheena M. Estañero and a background activity overview from Ms. Anna Marie V. Quincina, also featured closing remarks from Asst. Prof. John Richard M. Esguerra.
Through this collaborative effort, the province aims to solidify its position as a dynamic hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, with plans for follow-up workshops in the coming months. These workshops will build on the policy frameworks established during the I2TEQ Project Phase 2, focusing on practical implementation and continuous improvement.
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