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Innovation Challenge Competition

ICONS Launchpad, a flagship offering of ICONS South Luzon, introduces a 6-month acceleration program, tuned to empower startups in Calabarzon, propelling them toward remarkable growth. This initiative extends an open invitation to startups based in the Calabarzon region, encouraging startups to embark on a journey towards scaling up their operations and becoming more attractive for investment.

 

If you're a budding tech-startup in Calabarzon, armed with a TRL 6 prototype and already gaining little traction, this 6-month program is your ticket to shaping the future of your business!

 

Access the Application Form here: https://bit.ly/launchpadappform

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

  1. Stage of development: Designed for startups in the early stages of the company, such as those with a minimum viable product (MVP) or at least a technology readiness level (TRL) 6. Technology prototype successfully demonstrated in a relevant operational environment. These startups have typically established a proof of concept but may not have a well-defined business model or growth strategy.
  2. Any industry.
  3. Legal status: The startup must have SEC or DTI registration, or have an application for registration in progress. Business address must be within the Calabarzon region.
  4. Team size: Team of 2 to 5 members, with at least one dedicated team member.
  5. Scalability potential: Acceleration programs are designed to help startups rapidly scale their businesses. Startups should demonstrate the potential for rapid growth and scalability.
  6. Commitment: Startups should be committed to the program and willing to actively participate in mentorship, educational components, and culminating activities.

Within the 6-month program, startups are equipped with the skills and confidence to refine their pitches, showcase their potential, and engage with potential investors. Through mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities, the program nurtures an environment where startups can make meaningful connections with investors, increasing their chances of securing vital funding for sustainable growth and success. 

The program has three major parts.

PHASE 1 

1 month

PHASE 2

1 month

PHASE 3

5 months

CALL FOR PROPOSALS & SCREENING PROCESS PRE-ACCELERATION PROGRAM ACCELERATION PROGRAM

(in partnership with International Accelerator)

Screening of Top 15 Startups Kick-off & Training 9 weeks of personalized online mentoring
Admission to the Pre-Acceleration  Pre-Acceleration Demo Day during IRCIEST VI 9 weeks of international masterclasses
1 Demo Day (with investors)

 

During the Pre-Acceleration Demo Day IR in conjunction with IRCIEST VI, the Top 10 qualified startups shall receive a cash seed of P20,000 each team.

 

CRITERIA for the Selection Phase and Pre-Acceleration Pitch Day are as follows:

 

1) 20% - the strength of the team

2) 20% - the technical viability of the business idea

3) 20% - market potential

4) 20% - social impact

 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT ICONS SOUTH LUZON:

 

ICONS South Luzon, which stands for Innovation Consortium in South Luzon, is a program under the DOST PCIEERD HEIRIT ReSEED that primarily aims to strengthen the startup ecosystem in the region by providing funding support to PCIEERD-funded TBIs to lead in establishing and formalizing a Regional Startup Ecosystem Consortium.

At the forefront of this effort in the Calabarzon region is the Batangas State University Center for Technopreneurship and Innovation (CTI), which has led the consortium as the Project Leader since its establishment in February 2021. Currently, there are nine (9) TBI members under ICONS South Luzon, namely:

  1. BatStateU CTI
  2. Brainsparks – FAITH Tanauan
  3. Cavite State University – Agri-aqua TBI
  4. Animo Labs
  5. De La Salle Lipa Nexus Innovation Lab 
  6. DOST FPRDI
  7. Laguna State Polytechnic University - Agri-aqua TBI
  8. University of Batangas – Center for Business and Innovation
  9. UPLB SIBOL Business Incubators

With the establishment of ICONS South Luzon, all Technology Business Incubator members are working together to enhance startup services, focusing on meeting the needs of more advanced-stage startups through the "Acceleration Program." 

Drawing upon its strong presence in Region 4A, Calabarzon, ICONS South Luzon is poised to launch an acceleration program that leverages its extensive network of industry partners and mentors. ICONS South Luzon aims to offer startups a platform to showcase their services while also granting them access to customized support and funding opportunities as successful participants in the program.

 

 

Contact Information

Assoc. Prof. Albertson D. Amante
Conference Chair
Email: irciest2023@g.batstate-u.edu.ph
Mobile: +639175620916
Conference Website: https://batstate-u.edu.ph/irciest2023/