Quezon City strengthened its position as the country’s emerging innovation hub as it awarded ₱1 million equity-free grants to seven standout startups during the Startup QC Cohort 4 Demo Day. Held in partnership with accelerator Launchgarage, the event brought together founders, investors, and policymakers to celebrate the city’s growing startup ecosystem.
Launched by Mayor Joy Belmonte, the Startup QC Program supports early-stage ventures through funding, mentorship, and access to a thriving innovation network. “Innovation is not just about technology—it is about empathy, service, and equity,” Mayor Belmonte said. “Through Startup QC, we are proving that local governance can be both visionary and inclusive.”
To further strengthen its startup landscape, the city is finalizing the Business Investment and Trade Incentives for Startups (BITIS) Ordinance, which will provide fiscal incentives and business support through LEDIPO’s Invest with QC campaign.
This year’s grantees reflect industries vital to Filipinos today—clean energy, HR tech, health innovation, property technology, and AI-driven business solutions. The seven winning teams include: Briyo, which builds bamboo-based wind and hydro turbines for off-grid communities; Hireable, an AI-powered freelance hiring platform; Kazam On-Demand Services, an online marketplace for part-time household help; Laro, a sports and recreation booking app; Agap.ai, an AI-assisted developmental screening tool for parents; Soolok, a streamlined foreclosure and home acquisition platform; and Xamun.AI, which converts business requirements into custom applications in weeks.
Across the cohort, themes of social impact and practical innovation stood out. Startups like Hireable and Kazam support the evolving gig economy, while Agap.ai empowers parents with early developmental insights for children.
Beyond grants, Startup QC continues to nurture founders with training, guidance, and industry connections—ensuring that homegrown startups don’t just launch, but scale sustainably. Through its growing innovation ecosystem, Quezon City is shaping a future where entrepreneurship becomes a meaningful driver of inclusive progress.
