Startup pitching competition to strengthen Cebu's tech ecosystem

Farmtri, an agritech startup that empowers farmers to produce better food, took the top prize in the exclusive one-day tech startup pitching competition organized by Inclusion Japan (ICJ) and The Company Cebu at The Company Cebu's Mandaue City branch on August 28, 2024. 

The pitching competition is part of a series of activities to strengthen Cebu's tech ecosystem. These activities also include the much-awaited return of the Geeks On A Beach international conference happening in JPark Island Resort and Waterpark  in Mactan Island, Cebu, Philippines on November 13-15, 2024. 

Farmtri leverages advanced technology to revolutionize sustainable food production by sourcing fresh, local ingredients, cutting down on waste with predictive tools, and thereby bolstering local communities while minimizing environmental impact.

Farmtri took home a $2,000 cash prize, while SKloud SDS, an innovative platform that assists Sangguniang Kabataan officials with youth profiling, events management, and engagement, received a $1,000 cash prize. 

The Company Cebu emphasizes that events like the startup pitching competition aim to bridge the funding and support gap, helping startups scale faster and succeed in the global market with the right support. 

"Our support extends beyond providing workspace; we actively engage with startups through various initiatives, connecting them with global opportunities," said Masaki Suguro, The Company Cebu CEO and Fukuoka Growth Next manager. 

Suguro said the collaboration with Inclusion Japan, a leading venture capital firm dedicated to supporting startups focused on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), also offers a unique bridge for startups in Cebu to access international markets, especially in Japan.  

Joy Garingo, The Company Cebu's General Manager, said the competition reflects the ICJ and The Company Cebu's shared commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship by giving local startups an opportunity to access crucial funding and mentorship. 

"ICJ's expertise in supporting ESG-focused startups and their investment experience aligns perfectly with our mission to support sustainable business growth in Cebu by providing them the resources and opportunities they need to succeed," said Garingo.

As a venture capital firm focused on ESG principles, ICJ has been instrumental in the growth of innovative companies such as Instalimb, which develops affordable prosthetics, and Impact Circle, which focuses on social impact investments. 

The Company Cebu is a premiere co-working space provider and Employer-of-Record service that helps startups scale globally. With over 10 locations worldwide, including Hawaii, Japan, and Vietnam, The Company Cebu offers a robust network for entrepreneurs. 

Since 2017, The Company Cebu has been actively engaged with the local startup community, supporting initiatives like Startup Island PH's free Mentoring Program, Startup Mixers by DTI, Startup Island PH & DOHE Cebu, and Geeks on a Beach. 

In collaboration with Fukuoka Jisho and The Company Japan, which manages the Fukuoka Growth Next accelerator, The Company Cebu provides unparalleled access to international markets and resources.

Cebu is once more at the heart of initiatives aimed at providing inspiration, financial support, and visibility to the startup scene, thanks to the recent pitching competition hosted by The Company Cebu and ICJ and the forthcoming 7th Geeks On A Beach this November 2024.