Mariano Marcos
State University

From vision to reality: MMSU-TBI honors incubatees

By Jesslyn Keith Valite

To celebrate the contributions and growth of its business incubatees, the MMSU Technology Business Incubator (MMSU-TBI) organized a recognition program and informative session at the MMSU Science and Technology Park on January 28. 

Themed “Empowering Innovators, Celebrating Milestones,” the event was graced by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)—Ilocos Norte Director Amelia Galvez, who also served as keynote speaker. It was attended by MMSU Vice President for Research, Development, and Innovation Nathaniel Alibuyog; Director for Innovation and Technology Dionisio Bucao; TBI Chief Armie Sabugo; other employees, and the incubatees.

In her message, Galvez recognized the role of MMSU-TBI in nurturing start-ups through necessary tools, mentorship, and other interventions, while reaffirming DTI’s commitment to working with MMSU. “We at the DTI are committed to collaborating with you in your cause of capacitating these incubatees to become competitive MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises),” she said.

During the event, certificates of recognition, appreciation, and participation were presented to all the incubatees, which included students, faculty members, and external participants. These awards acknowledged their contributions to the program and local entrepreneurship, not just on a regional scale but also nationally.

Dr. Alibuyog commended the dedication and innovative ideas of the incubatees, stating that they are “the heart” of the program. 
As a beneficiary of the program, Ms. Ederlyn Delos Santos, a third-year Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship student and TBI incubatee, emphasized how the program had turned her entrepreneurial vision into reality, particularly her sewing and alterations service infused with the local textile venture. Fellow incubatee and faculty member Dr. Lawrence Eclarin also shared how MMSU-TBI supports the culture and local industry, emphasizing its role in their growth and innovation.

After the recognition ceremony, MMSU-TBI facilitated an informative session on TBI operations and guidelines among the incubatees. It was followed by a meeting with the beneficiaries of the program.

Since 2021, MMSU-TBI has assisted in commercializing technologies and products developed by faculty, students, researchers, and other innovators. Through various support mechanisms, including technology validation, product development, mentorship, fund sourcing, and networking, the TBI office helps facilitate potential spinoffs and technology transfer.

The office currently implements two Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-funded programs:  MMSU Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator (ATBI)–Dap-ayan, funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development, and Bannuar TBI, funded by the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Resources and Development.