Ateneo wins 1st Runner-Up in the Technology category of the 2024 Search for the Best Business Idea and Development Award (BIDA)

Students from the BS Information Technology Entrepreneurship (BS ITE) program won 1st Runner-Up in the Technology Category of the 2024 Search for the Best Business Idea and Development Award (BIDA) held on 2 October 2024 in Marikina City. 

Swift Coaching from Ateneo comprises fourth-year BS ITE students Samantha Mae See, Stephanie Dee Rayco, and Wolverix Skyler Yu. They were mentored by the Program Director for BS ITE, Joseph Benjamin R Ilagan. As 1st runner-up, the team received a plaque and a cash prize. The startup team has also received support from the Ateneo Business Insights Laboratory for Development (Ateneo BUILD).

Swift Coaching is an AI-powered platform that offers real-time, personalized coaching for Filipino call center agents. Through emotional recognition and context-aware guidance, the platform enhances agent call handling time and overall customer satisfaction. While committed to driving innovation, the founders prioritize the responsible use of AI to ensure ethical standards are upheld while serving society effectively. The John Gokongwei School of Management (JGSOM) has already implemented a working pilot for various administrative concerns using an early version of Swift Coaching's platform. 

The BIDA Award is a project of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI). Since 2007, it has recognized creativity and innovation across products, technology, and services. BIDA aims to develop an entrepreneurial culture and a sense of nationalism among Filipino youth. It also aims to promote entrepreneurship as a major component in the country's economic sustainability, growth, and development. The PCCI also offered Swift Coaching incubation and accelerator opportunities.