DAVAO — The Davao Startup Week 2023, held from September 13 to 17, was a vibrant celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. Organized by the Innovation and Development Accelerators Consortium for Startups in Davao Region (IDEAS Davao), this event brought together entrepreneurs, investors, students, and changemakers to create a collaborative community focused on digital transformation and sustainable development¹.

One of the highlights of the week was the 2nd Mindanao Technology Business Incubator (TBI) Summit, which took place on September 14. This summit, led by the University of the Philippines Mindanao and the Philippine Women’s College of Davao, focused on the role of technology in fostering social good and uplifting communities.

On September 14, 2023, Galansiyang’s co-founder and CEO, Jay Gajudo, participated in a lively discussion at the summit. He shared how Galansiyang fosters sustainability and inclusivity in Mindanao with an innovative approach to empower the indigenous community to plant thousands of trees without needing to visit the site. This approach not only accelerates reforestation efforts but also provides economic opportunities for local communities, aligning with the summit’s theme of nurturing inclusive and sustainable digital transformation.

As the Davao Region continues to embrace innovation, events like the Davao Startup Week and the Mindanao TBI Summit play a crucial role in fostering a thriving startup ecosystem. With new players entering the scene and existing ones expanding their reach, the region is poised for significant growth and development. The collaborative efforts of organizations like Galansiyang and the support from local government and educational institutions are paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive future.

The success of the Davao Startup Week 2023 and the 2nd Mindanao TBI Summit underscores the potential of technology and innovation in driving positive change. As the region moves forward, the lessons learned and connections made during these events will continue to inspire and propel the startup community towards greater achievements.