Procter & Gamble (P&G) Philippines has launched the first-ever vGrow SHOWQASE in the country. This strategic initiative, developed in collaboration with QBO Innovation, is designed to tap into the burgeoning startup ecosystem in the Philippines and forge partnerships with innovative startups that align with P&G’s vision for sustainable growth and enhanced consumer experiences.
Since its inception in 2017, the vGrow program has been a cornerstone of P&G's commitment to innovation and sustainable business practices. Initially rolled out in markets such as India, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, and New Zealand, the program aims to foster collaboration with startups, small businesses, and other potential partners. Through vGrow, P&G seeks to integrate cutting-edge solutions at various stages of its operations to continue delivering superior products to consumers.
To bring the vGrow SHOWQASE to life in the Philippines, P&G partnered with QBO Innovation, a division of Ideaspace, renowned for its work in driving digital transformation, nurturing innovation ecosystems, and accelerating the growth of technology startups. QBO Innovation played a critical role in curating a group of 18 high-potential startups to present their innovative solutions to P&G’s top executives. The event was attended by key P&G leaders, including Agraj Sharma, General Manager of P&G Philippines, Shivangi Jain, Purchasing Senior Director of P&G APAC, and Marlon De Vera, Purchasing Director of P&G Philippines.
The vGrow SHOWQASE provided these startups with a platform to pitch their solutions directly to P&G, opening doors for future business collaborations and networking opportunities within the company’s expansive global network.
The program brought together startups in various sectors, including Human Resources, Employee Health and Wellness, Sales Development, Retail Operations, Transport and Logistics, Market Strategy and Promotions, Customization and Value Added Services, and Brand and Creative industries. Notable participants included Amplify, Betterteem, Chamni’s Eye, CognitiveAI, DHL, Happy Benefits, LOCAD, Maya, MASA Inc., Margarett Enterprises Inc., MobileOptima-Tarkie, Ninja Van, Pickaroo, POLKA.PH, Shuttlerock, Storewise, and Xeleqt AI.
Among these, three startups received special recognition for their outstanding contributions. CognitiveAI was awarded the Most Innovative Solution, Betterteem received the Best Pitcher award, and DHL was recognized with the Industry Leadership award.
The vGrow SHOWQASE marks a significant step forward in P&G Philippines' commitment to driving innovation and fostering a collaborative environment where startups and established corporations can work together to create impactful solutions for consumers. As the Philippine startup ecosystem continues to grow, initiatives like vGrow will play a crucial role in shaping the future of business and technology in the region.