As part of its continuing efforts to strengthen the startup ecosystem across the country, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) launched the activity โStrengthening the Regional Startup Ecosystem: Establishment of Provincial and Regional Innovation Hubs (iHubs)โ on February 24, 2026 at Watergate Hotel in Butuan City.
The activity gathered regional directors, provincial science and technology directors, innovation champions, and key stakeholders from across Mindanao to align strategies in building stronger, more inclusive startup communities. Representing DOST SOCCSKSARGEN were Regional Director Engr. Sammy P. Malawan and Provincial Director Dr. Michael T. Mayo of PSTO Cotabato.
The event featured a ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing, signifying the commitment of participating DOST offices and partners to establish and strengthen Provincial and Regional Innovation Hubs (iHubs). Moreover, collaborative workshops and knowledge-sharing sessions were conducted such as discussions on AI Harmonization and the Smart Office System for Government Excellence.
By establishing Provincial and Regional Innovation Hubs (iHubs), DOST aims to provide shared spaces for ideation, incubation, mentoring, prototyping, and access to funding and technical support. In SOCCSKSARGEN, one Innovation Hub has recently been established at the University of Southern Mindanao in Cotabato Province, serving as a collaborative space for students, faculty researchers, and local innovators.
The participation of DOST SOCCSKSARGEN in this national initiative opens greater opportunities to cultivate more technology-based startups in the region. Moving forward, the agency aims to establish additional innovation hubs across the region and strengthen partnerships with higher education institutions, local government units, and private sector stakeholders to further nurture a vibrant and sustainable startup ecosystem in SOCCSKSARGEN.
