DOST opens PROPEL hub to link startups with industry partners

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) on Tuesday launched a business and exhibit center that will serve as a collaborative hub for startups, innovators, and industry partners.

Located at the newly renovated office space within the DOST complex in Bicutan, Taguig City.

The hub, called PROPEL (Accelerating Innovation in the Philippines, Propelling Innovation from the Philippines), will serve as a functional space where stakeholders can foster innovation and partnerships.

“For years, we have invested in research, strengthened our laboratories, and nurtured Filipino talent. Today, we affirm that our work does not end with discovery,” DOST secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said in his keynote speech during the launch event.

“It must continue until innovation reaches the marketplace, benefits communities, creates jobs, and improves lives,” he added.

Mr. Solidum also said that the hub is complementary to existing DOST innovation hubs across the country and will work in partnership with universities, research institutions, and regional stakeholders.

Apart from fostering partnerships, the hub is also expected to showcase programs, projects, innovations, and knowledge products supported by the PROPEL program, DOST’s commercialization arm for transforming science and technology innovations into viable enterprises.

Among the technologies featured in the PROPEL hub is Hiraya Technology Solutions Inc., a Filipino startup that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to automate water management and detect leaks in residential and commercial systems.

The PROPEL Business Hub and Exhibit Center also incorporates platforms designed to assist stakeholders at every stage of their innovation journey.

“These platforms create a dynamic, interconnected system, with PROPEL at its vibrant center,” Napoleon K. Juanillo Jr., DOST assistant secretary for technology transfer, communications, and commercialization, said in his keynote speech.

These include PHITEST, or the Philippine Technology Evaluation Standards for Testing, which serves as a rigorous validation and certification framework ensuring that Filipino innovations meet international standards.

Another platform is aiJUANAKnow, an AI-powered business development engine that provides innovators with deep market intelligence.

Also included is Piso-Piso Partnerships (PPP), a platform designed to democratize investment in science and technology, particularly for local startups, by making it accessible to everyone.

Starting at P1, anyone across the globe can contribute to startups they want to support.

“With even the smallest contribution, you become a part of building something bigger,” Mr. Juanillo said.

Moving forward, Mr. Juanillo told reporters he is optimistic that the PROPEL Business Hub and Exhibit Center will gain more attention in the coming years and help more local startups and innovators. — Edg Adrian A. Eva