The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office No. 02-Cagayan Valley Research Center (DA RFO 02-CVRC) held the first day of its 3-Day Incubator Management Training for DA RFO 02 Technology Business Incubators (TBIs) on February 13, 2024, at DA-CVRC, San Felipe, City of Ilagan, Isabela. The aim was to provide participants with comprehensive knowledge of incubator management principles and best practices.
In a collaborative effort between the DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) and CVRC-Agribusiness and Developed Processed Products-Technology Business Incubator (ADePt-TBI), the training brought together experts and stakeholders from various TBIs.
One of the highlights of the training was the presentations and panel discussion of TBIs’ experiences in setting up or starting a Business Incubator, where common challenges and solutions were addressed. Four TBIs were invited as resource persons in this panel discussion: Dr. Betchie Aguinaldo representing DISC-TBI; Dr. Jonathan Nayga of ISU ATBI; Dr. Junel B. Guzman of CSU Biznest; Ms. Cristina Salvosa of NVSU Sabatan, and Mr. Glenn Villamor of CAPSU TBI.
The background of TBIs, including history, programs and services, incubatees, and success stories, was presented. In addition, challenges were also discussed, encompassing issues ranging from infrastructure and resource limitations to digitalization hurdles, particularly within Agribusiness TBIs, and the complexities of forming multidisciplinary partnerships with colleges.
During the interactive session, participants asked Dr. Aguinaldo for insights on engaging IT students and faculty in the development of financial management software for MSMEs Agri Incubatees. Dr. Aguinaldo emphasized the importance of a multidisciplinary core team within TBIs, which involves IT and Business faculty, highlighting its role in fostering partnerships and collaborations that align with the needs of TBIs and Incubatees.
Additionally, Dr. Aguinaldo pinpointed the value of having a Research and Development Center that serves as the validator of technologies before pilot testing. Then, the TBI will be in charge of the process of commercialization.
The training attracted incubator managers, project leaders, and staff from newly established DA TBIs across the Philippines, signifying a strong commitment to enhancing incubator management practices within the region.
