IN photo (from left) Ronaldo R. Averion, assistant vice president, Program Management Department, LandBank of the Philippines; Kelven Ka-shing Lit, managing director, Censpot Trading Corporation; and Ray Anthony R. Chua III, board member, Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc., led the panel discussion and open forum.
Photograph courtesy of DOST
Share
The Department of Science and Technology (DoST) is shifting its approach to innovation toward data-driven strategies tailored to local markets, seeking to help entrepreneurs turn scientific research into viable businesses.
Filipino entrepreneurs are often known for their creativity and resilience, but access to capital alone does not guarantee that a business will succeed. Market conditions, consumer needs, production requirements and long-term sustainability also need to be considered before an idea can move from concept to enterprise.
The gap between scientific research and local businesses remains another challenge. Technologies developed in laboratories may require further testing, adaptation and market validation before they can be applied effectively by small enterprises.
At the DoST-TAPI Lunduyan 2026 event, DOST-TAPI director Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena, CESO III, highlighted the need to move beyond traditional approaches and use data to guide local business and innovation strategies.
The approach places greater emphasis on identifying the specific needs of local industries, including agriculture, infrastructure and production, rather than relying solely on financial assistance or readily available technologies.
Sustainability is also becoming a key consideration, particularly in areas such as water security and renewable energy, which require long-term planning and investment.
For local entrepreneurs, this means developing business plans backed by research, market data and practical strategies that can support growth beyond the initial stages of an enterprise.
The push for localized innovation also extends to young professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs.
By exposing students and emerging business owners to research, technology and innovation planning, programs such as Lunduyan aim to build a stronger pipeline of entrepreneurs capable of developing solutions suited to local communities.
The DOST-TAPI initiative seeks to connect research institutions with entrepreneurs, including small and home-based businesses, and help turn scientific ideas into products and services that can contribute to local economic growth.
###
