The Smart City TBI, in collaboration with the UPSCALE Innovation Hub, successfully led the Startup THRIVE Faculty Immersion at the University of the Philippines-Diliman. This immersion is part of Isabela State University’s faculty innovation efforts, which kicked off at Microsoft Philippines, July 31.

UPSCALE, through seasoned technopreneurship enabler Dr. Luis Sison and UP Siklab Training Lead Jannina Castillo, led discussions on the innovation and startup ecosystem in the Philippines.

The immersion also featured an elevator pitch from B2B AgriTech startup Anihan Technologies, demoed by its CEO, Ms. Gillian Santos. The event concluded with a tour of the UP CFA Fablab, where faculty innovators gained hands-on experience with digital fabrication tools and facilities.

Upon successful completion of the program and passing the assessment metrics, faculty innovators will proceed to an elevator pitch demo day, equipped with a fully developed business plan, a clear path to commercialization, and the skills and resources needed to launch their smart city technology ventures.