Startup costs in the Philippines: What it really takes to get started

Learning goal

You don’t need millions to start a startup.
But you do need a plan.

Too many founders either underbudget (and stall out) or overspend on things that don’t matter yet.
This guide helps you understand where your money should go in the early stage, and what can wait.

Why it matters

1. Money is limited, especially early on
   Every peso should move you forward, not just look good.

2. Budget helps you decide what to build (and when)
   When you know what’s essential, you avoid wasting time or cash on “nice-to-haves.”

3. Local costs matter
   This isn’t Silicon Valley. A lean PH startup can get moving for under ₱50K if you’re smart.

What it really costs

Here’s a rough breakdown for a scrappy but serious early-stage startup in the Philippines:

Estimated total for lean launch + early validation: ₱20,000–₱100,000

What to skip (for now)

You don’t need:

• A full custom website

• Branded merch or corporate giveaways

• Office space (work remote!)

• Costly tech if you’re still validating

Keep it test-focused, not perfection-focused.

Where to spend

These matter:

• Legal setup – DTI or SEC, BIR, official receipts

• MVP or prototype – even a no-code or manual version

• Basic tools – Canva, Notion, GSuite, communication

• Freelance help – if it lets you focus on learning, selling, or building

A smart ₱1,000 is better than a wasted ₱10,000.

Free tools and startup perks

Look for these resources:

• Google Workspace for Startups

• Notion Startup Plan

• Canva Pro (free for students/teachers)

• AWS or Azure credits (via accelerators)

Join communities (like StellarPH) to unlock even more.

Quick checklist

You’re budgeting right if:

• You’ve listed your top 8–10 startup expenses

• You know what to skip (for now)

• You’re using free or discounted tools wherever possible

• You’re tracking even small expenses monthly

StellarPH tip

Sketch a budget for your first 3 months, focused only on learning, testing, and traction.

Then show it to someone who’s built before.
Ask: Is this realistic? What would you cut or double down on?

Start lean. Spend smart. Grow from there.