Insider Spotlight
The event reinforced the city’s rise as a leading innovation hub, drawing founders, investors, and policymakers in collaboration with startup accelerator Launchgarage.
Why it matters
Startup QC, launched under Mayor Joy Belmonte, continues to distinguish Quezon City as one of the few local governments actively investing in early-stage innovation.
The program provides capital, mentorship, and access to an expanding ecosystem built to strengthen digital transformation and inclusive economic growth.
“Innovation is not just about technology — it is about empathy, service, and equity,” said Belmonte. “Through Startup QC, we are proving that governance and innovation can work hand in hand, that a local government can be both visionary and inclusive.”
Policy momentum
The city is also finalizing the Business Investment and Trade Incentives for Startups (BITIS) Ordinance, designed to offer fiscal incentives and a supportive business environment.
The Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office or LEDIPO will spearhead its launch under the Invest with QC campaign, further solidifying the city’s push to nurture homegrown innovators.
The grantees
From nine finalists, seven startups were selected for their scalable, socially conscious solutions:
Zoom in
This cohort’s solutions mirror the shifting landscape of Filipino communities. Hireable and Kazam address the growing gig economy.
Agap.ai supports parents monitoring developmental milestones, helping fill healthcare accessibility gaps even outside clinical settings. Sustainable energy, recreation, and enterprise automation round out key societal needs.
The big picture
Startup QC continues to deepen Quezon City’s innovation pipeline through mentorship, investor access, and capacity building.
By backing founders with both policy and resources, the city is positioning startups not just to survive but to scale — fueling economic growth while improving lives across its communities. —Princess Daisy C. Ominga | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
