DOST Teams Up with Wadhwani Foundation to Accelerate Filipino Innovation

THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Wadhwani Operating Foundation have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to launch the Ignite Technopreneurship Program, a pioneering initiative designed to provide DOST personnel with essential entrepreneurial skills aimed at driving innovation and boosting economic growth across the Philippines.

The signing ceremony, held at the DOST OSEC Conference Room on November 14, 2024, brought together leaders from both organizations. DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. emphasized the partnership’s alignment with DOST’s mission to foster wealth creation, resource protection, well-being, and sustainability through innovation. “True innovation goes beyond technical advancements; it is a mindset that challenges the status quo, encourages collaborative problem-solving, and embraces new approaches,” he stated. “By empowering our regional offices and innovation actors, we aim to equip MSMEs, SETUP clients, inventors, grassroots innovators, and startups with the mentorship and resources needed to bring valuable products to global markets.” DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, further highlighted the collaboration’s strategic importance, noting that it enhances the commercialization of local innovations, helping MSMEs, startups, SETUP clients, and inventors address regional needs while supporting DOST’s broader goals for a vibrant innovation ecosystem across the Philippines.

As part of their collaboration, DOST and the Wadhwani Foundation will focus on strengthening the Philippine entrepreneurial ecosystem and enhancing the impact of DOST’s key programs. Through capability-building initiatives such as workshops, mentorship, and training, the partnership aims to equip both aspiring and experienced entrepreneurs with essential skills. In addition, the collaboration supports DOST’s Smart and Sustainable Cities and Communities program by promoting digital transformation initiatives that leverage technology for urban solutions and encourage stakeholder partnerships. Another focal point is the enhancement of DOST’s Technology Business Incubation (TBI) program, where best practices and specialized training will be introduced to improve TBI effectiveness, expand networking opportunities, and help technology startups move from ideation to market-ready products. This comprehensive approach aims to contribute to a resilient and inclusive Philippine innovation ecosystem, enabling growth and sustainability across the country.

The event was attended by Mr. Lucrecio Delgado Jr., Regional Director of Wadhwani Entrepreneur Southeast Asia, DOST Undersecretary for Scientific and Technical Services, Ms. Maridon O. Sahagun, and Mr. Meetul Patel, President of Wadhwani Entrepreneur and Government Digital Transformation, each of whom gave messages underscoring the importance of the partnership.

This collaboration reinforces DOST’s commitment to cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset among its personnel and supporting the country’s technopreneurs, contributing significantly to sustainable economic progress. (NELSON SANTOS)