DOST-PCIEERD's grand memorandum of agreement signing for 2024 approved projects at Sheraton Manila Hotel, Pasay City

The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) held its "Grand Ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing" on 17 October 2024, at the prestigious Sheraton Manila Hotel, Pasay City. This milestone event highlighted the Council's unwavering commitment to advancing science, technology, and innovation through the introduction of groundbreaking programs and projects for 2025.

The ceremonial MOA signing brought together key stakeholders in the scientific community, showcasing a range of initiatives aimed at driving economic and technological growth in the Philippines. Among the key highlights was an orientation on the 7Ps Guidelines, which provide an updated framework for project funding and implementation. Attendees were also introduced to PCIEERD’s latest Technology Transfer and Commercialization programs, as well as the Council's comprehensive Impact Assessment programs aimed at ensuring the sustained growth and relevance of their supported innovations.

Ateneo de Manila University proudly signed several MOAs with DOST-PCIEERD for projects that promise to drive significant advancements in various fields:

• SPRINT: Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Program (STEP) led by Ms May Ann A Udtojan-Albis will continue its mission of preparing scientists and engineers to lead spin-off companies and commercialize their innovations.

• From Waste to Resource: Recovery of Zinc Oxide from Electric Arc Furnace Dust (EAFD) led by Dr Jose Mario Diaz seeks to recover valuable materials from industrial waste for local industries.

• Analysis of Sterols in Philippine Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) led by Dr Fabian M Dayrit, focuses on analyzing and enhancing the health benefits of the country's coconut oil.

• Sustainable Membranes for Aqueous Sodium-Ion Batteries led by Dr Lea Cristina De Jesus, explores sustainable energy solutions through innovative membrane technologies.

The Ateneo Intellectual Property Office (AIPO) made a significant accomplishment with the approval of the second run of the Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Program (STEP). AIPO has been instrumental in nurturing startups and helping innovators turn their ideas into market-ready products.

In addition to STEP's success, several AIPO-assisted startup incubatees also secured MOAs under various DOST-PCIEERD grant programs. Notable startups include:

• Kusina University and Mavil's Mushroom, both grantees of the Women Helping Women: Innovating Social Enterprises (WHWise) Program, highlighting AIPO's commitment to empowering female entrepreneurs.

• Wika, which secured funding under the Startup Grand Fund, is pioneering technology solutions that assist individuals with hearing and visual impairments.

Moreover, seven out of the eleven aspiring startups trained under SPRINT-STEP last year successfully received additional funding through the highly competitive FASTRAC Grant from PCIEERD. These promising startups signed their MOAs during the event, solidifying their place in the country's innovation ecosystem.

The Ateneo Intellectual Property Office (AIPO) is your partner in transforming research into impactful innovations. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an established researcher, AIPO can help you navigate the path from idea to market success.

Want to connect and explore opportunities? Email us at aipo@ateneo.edu. Join the ranks of successful startups and innovators. Let's build the future together!