Philippine Startup Week (PHSW) 2025 officially kicked off with a major press conference highlighting the country’s growing startup ecosystem. The Innovative Startup Act (ISA) Steering Committee revealed that it has mobilized ₱2.1 billion in government funding, setting the stage for its ambitious “ISA 2030 Vision” to produce four Philippine unicorns and attract USD$10 billion in investments.
During the event, leadership of the ISA Steering Committee passed from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for 2025–2027, continuing the rotational chairmanship among ISA lead agencies. Under the DOST’s tenure, the funding has directly supported 212 startups and incubated 2,233 more through a national network of 158 Technology Business Incubators (TBIs) and Innovation Hubs.
“We are proud of these achievements,” said Dr. Leah J. Buendia, DOST Undersecretary for Research & Development. “The startups incubated and funding mobilized prove that our national strategy is working. We trust the DICT will guide our collective agenda to the next level, creating a startup ecosystem that sustains Filipino entrepreneurship.”
Dr. Buendia also addressed the country’s slight dip in global startup rankings—from 60 in 2024 to 64 in 2025—highlighting the success of the ISA’s “Start Local” strategy. Three new cities—Iloilo, Cauayan, and Solana—have joined the Global Startup Ecosystem Ranking alongside Manila, Cebu, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and Naga.
Philippine Startup Week 2025 runs November 12–14 at the Philippine Innovation Hub in Marikina Enterprise Center. The country’s largest startup celebration invites founders, investors, and enthusiasts to connect with top startups, venture capital firms, and startup enablers through conferences, expos, and nationwide community events, showcasing the Philippines’ vibrant and growing startup landscape.
