By Mikee Natinga Norico

The CPUGAD and ICEBOX TBIs reaffirm their commitment to advancing the startup community through collaborative discussions and shared experiences. Photo Credits to ICEBOX: A DOST-assisted TBI for Smart Systems Innovations Facebook Page

The CPUGAD TBI embarked on a benchmarking visit to the ICEBOX TBI, located at Mindanao State University – Gensan, on September 2, 2024. This visit underscores CPUGAD’s commitment to refining its TBI operations and strengthening collaborations within the startup ecosystem.

Dr. Noel S. Gunay, Project Leader of ICEBOX TBI, extended a warm welcome to the CPUGAD delegation and guided them through a series of in-depth discussions. Joining Dr. Gunay were key members of the ICEBOX core team, including Dr. Ryan Banal, Director of the Department of Innovation; Dr. Marissa Dela Cruz; and Dr. Jypzie Catedrilla. They were complemented by additional insights from Romeo Jr. E. Tejada, Operations Manager; Engr. Arianne Dale Daligdig, Startup Manager; Joecil S. Quibol, Program Development Manager; and Louise Ann Duot, Administrative and Facility Manager. The team shared their extensive experiences in promoting technopreneurial growth and driving innovation.

The CPUGAD delegation, led by Engr. Gelvie C. Lagos, CPUGAD TBI Project Leader, included notable members such as Mark Gil D. Peraman, TBI Manager; Dr. Aries Roda D. Romallosa; Engr. Yeseil S. Sacramento; and Sharlene G. Gotico as Project Staff. Also present were Rae Marie G. Leong-on and Renjo B. Debil as Resident Mentors; Jomielyn G. Catedrilla and Eldane Gale C. Pamposa as Project Teachnical Assistants; and Raishene Joyce D. Arcillas, DOST VI Representative.

The discussions centered on exchanging best practices and exploring future collaborations between the two TBIs. The visit represented a pivotal moment in fostering a more robust network of TBIs, with both ICEBOX and CPUGAD expressing a shared commitment to advancing innovation and technopreneurship.

This collaborative effort highlights the ongoing dedication of both incubators to support and enhance the startup community, paving the way for new opportunities and strengthened partnerships.