Wika Media, Bamboo Impact Lab among top 5 finalists of StartUp QC Program

Last October 28, 2022, the Quezon City government launched The StartUp QC Program, a dynamic initiative aimed at creating business hubs that inspire and empower QCitizens to develop innovative business models that address social issues and concerns. Aligned with Mayor Joy Belmonte's 14-point agenda, which seeks to establish Quezon City as the premier business destination, this program aims to generate more job opportunities and foster economic growth for QCitizens. By providing funding and support to promising startups in their early stages, the Quezon City government endeavors to nurture and promote viable ventures with the potential for successful execution.

The StartUp QC Program is open to both students and non-students, offering a three-phase framework that includes evaluation, business development, and product development. Through a series of curated activities, participants receive guidance, mentorship, and resources to refine and finalize their business models from conceptualization to implementation. Following a rigorous selection and evaluation process, five finalists were chosen from a pool of 70 applicants. These finalists were selected based on their viability, sustainability, and commitment to social responsibility. As an exciting opportunity, these finalists will have the chance to secure financial grants of up to 1 million pesos during the highly anticipated Demo Day scheduled for August.

The Ateneo Intellectual Property Office is thrilled to announce that two of its incubatees, Bamboo Impact Lab and Wika Media, have been named as part of the prestigious group of five finalists. Bamboo Impact Lab has exhibited immense potential in combating harmful chemicals within the cosmetics and beauty industry. Led by Dr Anneth Rigon and her dedicated team, Bamboo Impact Lab focuses on producing high-quality bamboo-derived products, starting with bamboo leaf extract. This underutilized and abundant source of silica is highly sought after in cosmetics, allowing the company to address both environmental and health concerns.

Similarly, Wika Media aims to revolutionize media consumption for the Deaf community in the Philippines by providing access to audible content in their native language, Filipino Sign Language. Founder Mr Roland Benzon envisions a product that empowers deaf Filipinos and enables them to enjoy entertainment on par with their hearing peers.

The Ateneo Intellectual Property Office extends its warmest congratulations to Bamboo Impact Lab and Wika Media for their outstanding achievement as finalists in the StartUp QC Program. These deserving ventures will now have access to invaluable mentorship opportunities and potential financial grants from Quezon City and their esteemed business partners.

For more information about how you or your startup can become part of the AIPO incubation program and receive assistance in finding and protecting intellectual property, please visit www.aipo.ateneo.edu or email them at aipo@ateneo.edu. You may also check out its Facebook and LinkedIn pages for the latest updates and announcements.