The Philippine startup ecosystem is experiencing significant growth, with regional hubs expanding across the country, QBO Innovation said Monday.

According the finding of the 2024 Startup Ecosystem Mapping Reports by the Philippines’ public-private initiative, Iloilo stands out for its strong government support, with local policies and initiatives designed to foster startup growth, a model that other emerging startups could learn from.

Meanwhile, Negros Occidental benefits from strong collaboration between the academe and industry, creating a steady pipeline of talent and fostering innovation in Metro Bacolod’s growing startup scene.

The report has also found Lanao del Norte has a thriving base of young tech talent, supported by academic institutions and active local enablers driving interest in entrepreneurship.

Meanwhile, General Luna is home to a vibrant community of digital nomads and tech workers, presenting opportunities to integrate this talent into startup activities, while Region I is witnessing increasing startup activity, particularly in key urban centers like Laoag and Dagupan, where innovation is beginning to take root.

While there is budding growth in the areas surveyed, the report revealed that startups across all locations still face challenges in scaling, with limited access to funding, industry connections, and broader markets.

While local ecosystems are growing, it noted many startups struggle to expand beyond their immediate communities.

Strengthening investment opportunities and industry linkages will be key to helping regional startups scale nationally and globally, it said.

“Regional development is essential to strengthening the country’s overall innovation landscape,

“These reports serve as a roadmap for empowering local startup ecosystems, bridging gaps, and unlocking new opportunities for innovation-driven growth,” said Alwyn Rosel, Executive Director of QBO Innovation.

“For startup founders and aspiring tech entrepreneurs, this means greater access to support networks, funding opportunities, and industry collaborations that can help turn ideas into scalable ventures,

“By working together, ecosystem builders, policymakers, and investors can fuel the next wave of Philippine startups, ensuring that innovation thrives in every corner of the country,” he added.

Through discussion with key community drivers, gathering local insights, and validating data, the reports provide a comprehensive overview of each ecosystem’s current state, identifying movers and champions, available resources, success stories, and growth potential.

Most importantly, they offer actionable insights on how ecosystem enablers can drive further development and foster long-term sustainability.

The reports focused on providing critical insights into five key locales: Region I (Ilocos Region), Lanao del Norte, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, and General Luna, Surigao del Norte.

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