Filipino Startup Incubator Finds Its First Cohort, Plans to Boost Philippine Startup Ecosystem
After reviewing over 270 applications, Filipino startup incubator Founders Launchpad has found its first cohort. Six local startups have been chosen as part of the incubator’s initial staging. Ranging from healthcare to e-commerce, the chosen startups are: Itemcount, Kippap Learning Corporation, MedsGo, Rezbin, Safe, and Supafaya.
Founders Launchpad joins the growing number of incubators in the Philippines, all committed to boosting the Philippine startup ecosystem. Created by AHG Lab and Draper Startup House, Founders Launchpad is co-presented by QBO Innovation Hub, with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) as its official government partner.
"In the Philippines, the startup community is still quite small, but we have a lot of potential. I'm happy to note that there are still many opportunities, and by building a strong community and fostering a strong drive among the startups, I believe we can see more exciting developments and increased support," said AHG Lab CEO Rene Cuartero, regarding the expected dynamics between Founders Launchpad and the startups in its first cohort.
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Founders Launchpad 12-week program plans to help startups build their product and prepare them for investors. The program will cover every key domain in startup-building, from the fundamentals to UI/UX design. Aside from the curriculum, the program will provide early-stage founders with access to investment support, learning experiences, and networking opportunities.
"They will have a demo day at the end of three months, and I am excited to see how things change, how they adapt and improve," said Simon Bauer, Founders Launchpad program lead.
As per the Founders Launchpad website, the incubator offers its startups with $50,000 worth of resources, benefits, and cash in exchange for a small stake in the company. Founders in the program will also receive hands-on support from experts, mentorship and expert advice, and a community and network to grow.
“We believe in the power of great ideas and the potential of determined individuals. So, we are here to support, guide, and champion their initiatives,” said Draper Startup House General Manager Celine Veloso.
The first cohort might be complete, but you can still sign up for the second cohort by following Founders Launchpad for the latest updates.