Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. on Monday touted the agency’s support to Filipino startups via the Startup Grant Fund (SGF) program.

Speaking during the opening ceremony of the Philippine Startup Week, Solidum said the DOST has so far allocated PHP638M to support 178 startups.

“The total amount was for the 178 projects/startups supported by the three councils from 2021 to 2025,” Solidum told the Philippine News Agency.

The three councils are the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development, Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development, and the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development.

“An additional amount will be allocated for 16 startups, which will sign a memorandum of agreement with PCIEERD this afternoon,” Solidum said.

Through the SGF program, the DOST provides funding to de-risk research and development, allowing founders to transition their breakthrough concepts into market-ready, commercialized technologies.

“We are fully committed to ensuring that our startups are equipped, funded and empowered to scale beyond boundaries through a robust, end-to-end framework,” the DOST chief said.

Across the country, there are at least 84 technology business incubators where the DOST has been offering technical mentorship, and regulatory guidance to help ensure that early-stage ventures are structurally sound and globally prepared.

Solidum assured startups that the government, in adherence to Republic Act 11337 or the Innovative Startup Act and Republic Act 10055 or the Philippine Technology Transfer Act, will help them streamline processes, and bridge academic research with commercial applications.

“As you navigate new markets, develop impactful technologies, and push past conventional borders, know that the Philippine government believes in your vision. Keep building with purpose, lead with resilience,” he said. (PNA)