This is a press release by DTI Competitiveness Bureau
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the Korean Ministry of SMEs and Startups, ASEM SMEs Eco-Innovation Center (ASEIC), Hanns Seidel Foundation – Philippines, and PhilDev Foundation, marked the official launch of Ecothon Philippines 2021 on its first Live Info Session last 22 September 2021, via online streaming.
Ecothon is a series of hackathons fostering early-stage startups centered on accelerating UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 12: Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP). The program is conducted in various ASEAN neighboring countries, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The program is designed to support local startups with innovative business solutions.
The competition is 36 hours of intensive boot camp, which aims to devise a sustainable business model. Startups on any business stage are welcome to join, especially those who need advice and mentoring on sectors like sustainable business, circular economy, zero-waste design, food upcycling, renewable energy, and more.
A participating early-stage startup team must consist of 3 or more members with an innovative SCP solution and is located or wants to run a business here in the Philippines. Ecothon winner will receive 1.5M South Korean Won (KRW) for the gold prize, 1M KRW for silver, and 500k KRW for bronze.
PhilDev Foundation’s Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Eric Tomacruz, emphasizes, “As we move forward in creating a better future for Filipinos, we look to startups to prioritize sustainability by developing innovative solutions that are beneficial for people and the planet.”
DTI Competitiveness Bureau Director Lilian G. Salonga adds, “The Department will continuously support initiatives that boost the startup ecosystem in the country. We urge startups to use this opportunity to grow their businesses and develop their entrepreneurial potential.”
The deadline for application is on 11 October 2021. For more information, like and follow DTI-CB Facebook Page (facebook.com/DTICB) and tune in to our second Live Info Session scheduled on 29 September 2021.
For Ecothon and Startup-related concerns and queries, you may send an email to CB@dti.gov.ph.