Lack of support impedes technopreneurship in Phl

CEBU, Philippines - That the world is posed for digital revolution provides Filipino technology and startup enthusiasts a good avenue to capitalize on their talents and join the ranks of some of the world's best technopreneurs.

But while businesses that are anchored on technology are  said not to require large amount of initial working capital, tech and startup people are sometimes reserved about showcasing their skills because they lack connections with others who have succeeded in the field.

So said Techtalks.ph Tina Amper who believes that while the Philippines, particularly Cebu, houses top-caliber talents in information technology, it still lags in terms of providing financial support and the necessary connections for the huge technopreneur base here.

"The best part is they don't need big investment to start off. All they need is to start building and coding using their head and the Internet, and once they have the product, they can sell it right away," said Amper.

Recognizing the potential contribution of businesses using technology in economic growth, Amper said the key to technopreneurial success is getting the right support, right idea and never giving up.

Techtalks is organizing the two-day Geeks on a Beach conference slated in Boracay on September 26-27.

It is expected to give those passionate about tech, startup and design a chance to expand their networks by meeting some of the world's and country's famous tech and startup icons.

Amper said over 150 participants have already signed up for the event, although she admitted that they are expecting the attendance of about 300 joiners.

The event has also recently gained the support of the Department of Science and Technology  (DOST), through its Information and Communications Technology (ICT) office.

Amper said they have already communicated with the DOST national office and are hoping to get financial grant for the activity.

While a grant of P300 thousand is being eyed, organizers are still waiting for it to be officially approved.

According to Edilberto Paradela of DOST-7, their agency looks into how to maximize the use of science and technology, even in providing assistance to micro, small and medium enterprises to become more competitive.

"We value the importance of ICT as a tool to make businesses more competitive and help them excel even further," he said.

In Central Visayas, DOST-ICTO has been giving assistance to the sector since the early 90s.

It had also supported the holding of Startup Weekend Cebu last month. (FREEMAN)