April 7, 2021 – the Iloilo Science and Technology University launched the Kwadra TBI, a technology business incubator (TBI) aimed at commercializing university research into startups and nurturing deep technology startups.
Deep technology refers to classification of technologies such as artificial inteligence, robotics, blockchain, advanced material science, photonics and electronics, biotech and quantum computing and other scientific & technology solutions generated through substantial scientific or engineering research & development.
This focus will leverage ISATU’s existing research & development facilities like the Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC), the DTI Fabrication Laboratory, DOST Satellite Ground Center, and the research on natural products, biotech, physics and robotics.
The TBI was established through the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research & Development (DOST-PCIEERD)’s Higher Education Institution Readiness for Innovation and Technopreneurship (HEIRIT).
Kwadra TBI’s services include Venture-Building, where they help scientists, engineers & innovators turn their inventions into enterprises; Business
Support especially for services like accounting, legal, marketing, IP filing, etc; Technopreneurship & Innovation Training and Coworking and Office spaces for incubatees.
The Kwadra TBI soft launch featured welcome messages from President Raul Muyong, Vice President for Research & Extension, Carmelo Ambut, Russel M. Pili Chief, Research Information and Technology Transfer Division (RITTD), Rebecca Rascon, DTI 6 Regional Director, Rowen Gelonga, DOST 6 Regional Director, and Mario Cuñado, DICT 6 Regional Director.
Representatives from the business & industry sector also gave their remarks like Lea Lara of the Iloilo Business Club, Francis Gentoral of the Iloilo Economic Development Foundation, and Atty. Jobert Peñaflorida of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce Iloilo.
Currently, there are about 15 startups in the pipeline applying for incubation, including university spin-offs and has a team that includes Dr. Karlo S. Sira (Project Leader), Rayjand Gellamucho (General Manager), Noreen Bautista (Marketing & Programs), Michael Llabos (Design & Promotions) and Marie Honesty Amoyan (Admin & Finance).
– Noreen Marian Bautista
