"DOST's Propel Initiative: Accelerating Innovation and Empowering Filipino Startups

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Title DOST's Propel Initiative Accelerating Innovation and Empowering Filipino Startups

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, it is crucial for countries like the Philippines to stay ahead of the curve. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has recognized this need and has taken steps to empower local startups and entrepreneurs through its Propel program.

What is Propel?

Launched in December 2023, Propel aims to provide Filipino startups and science and technology (S&T) enterprises with a comprehensive suite of services, facilities, and programs designed to help them bring their innovations to market and scale up their businesses. The initiative has a two-fold vision to accelerate innovation in the Philippines and propel innovation from the Philippines – not just nationally but globally.

Services Offered by Propel

As explained by DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. at a recent televised briefing, Propel provides 12 support services, including legal support, market intelligence, and more. These services aim to facilitate interaction between technology producers and investors, helping startups establish companies, improve products, or spin off new businesses.

Benefits of Propel

By leveraging digital platforms for remote collaboration and market access, Propel enables Filipino businesses to showcase their products to global audiences. This initiative targets scientists and early-to-mid-stage S&T innovators, providing extensive support in areas such as

1. Business model development
2. Technology and market validation
3. Legal advice
4. Marketing and promotions
5. Capital raising

Success Stories

The DOST has already made significant progress through its Balik-Scientist Program (BSP), which aims to promote information exchange and accelerate the flow of new technology into the country. To date, over 120 Filipino scientists have returned to the country through the BSP, sharing their expertise for national development.

Conclusion

DOST's Propel initiative is a testament to the agency's commitment to empowering innovation in the Philippines. By providing comprehensive support services and platforms for remote collaboration, Propel has the potential to shape the future of entrepreneurship in 2025 and beyond. As we look towards the future, it is essential that we continue to invest in initiatives like Propel, which can help accelerate innovation and drive economic growth.

Keywords Propel, DOST, startups, innovation, entrepreneurship, science and technology, Balik-Scientist Program

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.