Insider Spotlight
The surge in early-stage breakthroughs reflects the Philippines’ growing startup maturity, where increased capital access and stronger ecosystem support are helping founders commercialize ideas faster.
That momentum was on full display at the KMC Startup Awards 2025, held Nov. 13, 2025, during the Philippine Startup Week.
Driving the momentum
According to a press release, this year’s awards received 140 entries from startups across the country, ultimately recognizing 24 finalists with gold, silver, and bronze distinctions across eight categories celebrating innovation, growth, culture, and leadership.
By the numbers:
Zoom in
Silver and bronze honors broadened the spotlight, featuring Mylo Speech Buddy, Rezbin, NextPay, Flying Tigers Express’ Dave Overton, Bambuhay, Twala, Jia Financing, Dehusk, and others—illustrating a diverse pipeline of innovators in sustainability, fintech, logistics, and community-centered solutions.
What they’re saying
“At KMC, we remain committed to supporting this community — to building an environment where founders and teams can think boldly, work together, and grow,” said Michael McCullough, co-founder of KMC Solutions.
“What began in 2023 as a way to shine a light on emerging founders has grown into a movement — one that recognizes imagination, resilience, and the determination to turn ideas into reality,” he added.
“We believe that meaningful solutions can start anywhere, and that progress comes from the courage to create what has not existed before,” McCullough said.
The big picture
With the theme “Innovation Without Limits,” the awards—co-presented by OneCFO and backed by key ecosystem groups, media partners, and sponsors—underscore a continued push to empower Filipino founders and elevate homegrown solutions onto the global stage. —Princess Daisy C. Ominga | Ed:Corrie S. Narisma
