2024 marks IDEAS Davao’s most transformative and impactful year to date. As the significance of technology and innovation takes center stage in regional discussions of economic growth, an increasing number of stakeholders are entering the vibrant startup scene, with landmark legislation like the Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act and the CREATE MORE Act passed this year opening greater opportunities to explore the Philippines’ untapped potential as a startup powerhouse in Southeast Asia.
This year’s IDEAS Accelerate issue is both a celebration and a reflection of Davao’s remarkable growth. With the launch of five flagship events, a meteoric rise of 243 spots in the global startup ecosystem index, and the reclaiming of Davao’s position as the fourth-best startup ecosystem in the Philippines, the region is charting an upward trajectory unlike anything we’ve seen before.
As you explore this issue, you’ll discover inspiring stories of our impact across Mindanao, profiles of Davao’s most promising ecosystem players, and the invaluable contributions of new startup champions in our community. This edition also showcases pioneering entrepreneurs, significant milestones of technology and business incubators (TBIs) and tech transfer organizations, and the steadfast efforts of government agencies in ushering in a new era for entrepreneurship in the region.
IDEAS Davao remains steadfast in its mission to transform innovation into impact, and as we look ahead, we are excited to build on the momentum of 2024. Together, let us continue to shape a future where Davao thrives as a beacon of growth, collaboration, and opportunity.
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Candice is an educator, community builder, and Fulbright scholar based in Davao City, Philippines. She lives a double life as a university instructor during the day and a startup ecosystem lead at night. Focusing on building a thriving ecosystem in the Davao Region, Philippines, her interests lie in the intersections of language teaching, policy-making, tech, and business.