As a cornerstone of the Idea2Startup Program led by the City Government of Naga through the Investment & Tourism Promotions Office, the recent Startup Bootcamp took place from September 21 to 28, 2023. This immersive experience spanned two days at each of the four esteemed partner academic institutions in Metro Naga- Naga College Foundation, Inc., Ateneo de Naga University, Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology, and University of Nueva Caceres. Jointly conducted with AQADEMY Campus Tour, powered by QBO Philippines, the bootcamp immersed students and faculty in vital startup concepts and processes.

Around 600+ total participants composed of 120 student teams, representing various courses, united to identify problems, brainstorm solutions, complete their own lean canvas, and deliver compelling pitches to faculty panels. This bootcamp marked the exciting start of the Idea2Startup journey, with a series of approaching activities designed to engage and inspire both students and faculty.

After the bootcamp, the teams will progress to the critical phase of idea validation, aligning with their Technopreneurship subjects. They will refine their startup projects and craft comprehensive pitch decks. A pitching challenge awaits at the end of the semester, offering a platform for projects to secure funding for further research and prototype development from the city government.

This forward-thinking initiative aims to build a thriving ecosystem of Naga-based startups by harnessing and nurturing the potential of students early on, empowering them to forge impactful solutions for the community.

(Written by Krizia Francine Coronel, ITPO)