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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider Seven QC startups receive funding boost to expand innovation

Seven QC startups receive funding boost to expand innovation

Published Nov 14, 2025 02:52 pm

The Quezon City government strengthened its position as a leading startup hub by awarding seven local startups P1-million equity-free grants during the Startup QC Cohort 4 Demo Day on Friday, Nov. 14. 

The initiative forms part of the city’s broader efforts to nurture early-stage ventures and build a competitive innovation ecosystem.

Founders, investors, and policymakers gathered for the annual demo day, where nine finalists presented their solutions before seven were selected for their potential to scale and create social impact. The chosen startups represent a range of sectors responding to both urban and national challenges — from clean energy to workforce development and digital transformation.

The Startup QC Program, spearheaded by Mayor Joy Belmonte, provides funding, mentorship, and market linkages to young companies seeking to accelerate their growth. City officials said the initiative forms a key pillar of Quezon City’s strategy to drive inclusive development and modernize service delivery.

The city government is also completing the Business Investment and Trade Incentives for Startups (BITIS) Ordinance, which will offer fiscal incentives and additional support for entrepreneurs. 

The measure will be rolled out by the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office through its Invest QC campaign. 

This year’s grantees demonstrate how emerging startups are responding to evolving needs in Filipino communities:

• Briyo – Develops bamboo-based modular turbines for off-grid power generation.

• Hireable – An AI-driven hiring and KPI matching platform for freelancers.

• Kazam On-Demand Services – Provides a flexible online network for part-time household help.

• Laro – A digital platform for sports facility booking and community engagement.

• Agapai – An AI-assisted tool that helps parents monitor children’s developmental milestones.

• Soolok – A property technology solution that simplifies foreclosure data and home-buying processes.

• Xamun.AI – Converts business requirements into functional applications in a short development cycle.

Some of the ventures target gaps in employment and household support, offering flexible income opportunities for informal workers.

City officials emphasized that Startup QC aims not only to provide financial assistance but also to connect startups with investors, industry partners, and potential clients. By building a pipeline of homegrown innovators, Quezon City hopes to reinforce its reputation as a center for technology-driven solutions.

The Cohort 4 awardees join a growing roster of startups supported by the program, contributing to the city’s vision of an inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready local economy.

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