DOST x StellarPH: Powering the future of startups in Region VII

A new chapter in Philippine innovation begins in Region VII.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and StellarPH have officially launched a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening the startup ecosystem in Central Visayas. Through a series of targeted programs, the initiative will accelerate early-stage ventures, map out key innovation players, and provide accessible tools and training to founders, students, educators, and industry leaders.

“Innovation is the cornerstone of what we do at DOST,” says Dr. Tristan L. Abando, OIC Director of DOST Region VII.

“We’re proud to officially begin this partnership with StellarPH — a crucial step toward building a stronger startup ecosystem in Region VII.”

From ideas to investor-ready: The acceleration program

At the heart of the collaboration is a six-month Acceleration Program tailored for early-stage founders in the Visayas. The program helps entrepreneurs move from raw ideas to investor-ready startups, equipped with real traction, a clear value proposition, and the tools to grow.

Startups will progress through three key phases:

1. Validation: Refining business models, identifying customer needs, and testing assumptions.

2. MVP Development: Building minimum viable products based on real user feedback.

3. Investor Readiness: Creating pitch decks, sharpening financials, and presenting to real investors.

Throughout the program, founders receive hands-on mentorship, practical workshops, and access to a community of innovators and investors.

“The loop is finally complete,” says Ralph P. Laviste, Manager at Wildcat Innovation Labs.

“We’ve long needed an acceleration program that truly supports startups in our region. Congratulations to StellarPH for making this happen.”

Ralph P. Laviste, Manager at Wildcat Innovation Labs.

Mapping the Startup Ecosystem in Region VII

Startups don’t grow in isolation, they grow in ecosystems.

That’s why DOST and StellarPH are launching the Startup Ecosystem Map, a dynamic, open-source guide that identifies key players in the Philippines.

This map will:

• Help founders connect with mentors, incubators, and funders

• Show students pathways to turn school projects into startups

• Allow corporates, policymakers, and investors to find potential collaborators

The ecosystem map is designed to be a living resource, constantly evolving as more players join the innovation movement in the Visayas. Please find all information on the Ecosystem page, including a downloadable version of the map.

The Startup Playbook: Your guide to the Filipino founder journey

To support startup education and accessibility, StellarPH is also launching the Startup Playbook, a hands-on guide for navigating the Philippine startup journey.

Inside, entrepreneurs will find:

• The Full Startup Journey – Spark, Validate, Build, Launch, Grow

• Ecosystem Players – Who they are, what they do, and how to connect

• Legal & Funding Basics – Business registration, grants, investors, VCs

• Tools, Templates & Checklists – Practical, plug-and-play founder resources

Whether you're a student pitching your first idea, a teacher guiding student innovators, or a founder preparing to raise capital, the Playbook offers a clear path forward. StellarPH also launches a new Academy Platform, with helpful articles to support you at every stage of your startup journey.

Soft Landing Bootcamp: The Gateway to Central Visayas Startups

For aspiring entrepreneurs, students, and professionals new to the startup world, the Soft Landing Bootcamp offers the perfect entry point.

In 2 days, participants get:

• A guided introduction to Cebu’s innovation hubs

• Exposure to DOST support programs and partner organizations

• Foundational startup tools and business frameworks

• Direct access to mentors, community builders, and future collaborators

• It’s more than a bootcamp, it’s a launchpad into the Region VII startup ecosystem.

  
  

Why This Matters

At StellarPH, we believe that entrepreneurship should be accessible to anyone with bold ideas or creative dreams, regardless of background, location, or experience. That’s why this partnership with DOST is such a powerful step forward: it unlocks more opportunities for founders in the Visayas and builds stronger foundations for innovation, inclusion, and impact.

“These initiatives are about more than just startups,” says Pjotr Steinmetz, Co-Founder of StellarPH.

“They’re about building a culture of innovation, one that connects people, communities, and opportunities across the Philippines.”

Applications for the Acceleration Program are open