Inclusive Design and Efficient Resource Use Key to Tech Success – Startups

STARTUPS highlighted that inclusive design and efficient resource management are important for successful technology commercialization and incubation – strategies that have proven fundamental to their achievements in the sector.

During the third national Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubation (ATBI) conference and Incubatee Summit held recently in Clark, Pampanga, the two organizations showcased how targeted strategies can lead to success in technology innovation.

Vera Bella Enterprises, known for its innovative tilapia ice cream and cookies, turned product development challenges into success.

“From the very beginning, our goal has been to help farmers thrive with every scoop and bite of our ice cream and cookies. Throughout the product development process, we have placed a strong emphasis on inclusive product design,” said Dana Vera Cruz, Managing Partner of Vera Bella.

The company’s nine-year journey has involved rigorous processes, including securing intellectual property, validating technology, and refining the product. To appeal to a wide range of customers, including those with diverse dietary needs, they have ensured that their products are not only market-ready, but also support local farming communities.

Vera Bella has achieved Technology Readiness Level 9, meaning its technology is ready for full-scale commercialization.

A marketing readiness level of 8 suggests that the product is almost ready to go to market, while an investment readiness level of 6 reflects moderate readiness to invest and scale.

Meanwhile, DMMMSU ATBI, an agro-aquatic technology incubator operating at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, faces its own challenges, especially in managing limited resources.

“It can be difficult to balance the distribution of these resources across multiple incubators, often leading to disparities in support provided,” said Prof. Victoria Malaya, director of technology innovation and commercialization.

Since its establishment in 2018, DMMMSU ATBI has focused on efficient resource management, including securing sustainable financing and providing high-quality consulting on new technologies.

As Malaya noted, the challenge of attracting and retaining top talent is a double-edged sword.

“Our incubators need skilled individuals and experts to drive their innovation, but we sometimes struggle to find and retain such talent.”

On March 19, the World Bank said the Philippines is among the most dynamic economies in the East Asia and Pacific region, with a solid economic recovery on track for 5.6 percent growth in 2023.

According to the Philippine Development Statistical Indicators 2023, the agricultural sector faces significant challenges, with only 1 of 12 indicators indicating a high probability of achieving targets by the end of the plan.

However, overall performance indicators revealed that 72 out of 33 indicators in the area of ​​social and human development are low, reflecting challenges in areas that overlap with the startup ecosystem’s efforts to meet community needs and support inclusive growth.