Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Tarlac State University (TSU) launched the ASLAGAN Technology Business Incubator (TBI) to help local entrepreneurs in the food industry.
ASLAGAN, a Kapampangan term which means ‘to light up’, aims to support entrepreneurs and innovators by providing them with a conducive environment and essential resources for the development of their businesses.
TSU President Arnold Velasco explained that under ASLAGAN-TBI, all laboratory tests will be conducted at the Food Technology and Research Center in TSU Lucinda Campus.
He pledged to foster innovation that promotes emerging technologies in the food sector and manufacturing industry.
“As [the] TSU President, I commit that we will be giving our support to all the programs. We’re very hopeful that this is not just the start or the end. We’re hopeful that there will be more fruitful, impactful and purposeful significant programs that will be undertaken with the help of everybody,” Velasco said.
Initially, the program has a total of 15 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as its first batch of incubatees.
For nine months, the incubatees will undergo the program’s three phases namely: ideation, product development and business calling.
Moreover, the committee will conduct a needs assessment to develop a different curriculum for every level of business.
Meanwhile, DOST Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development Executive Director Enrico Paringit emphasized the critical role of ASLAGAN-TBI in assisting MSMEs not only in the province but also in the entire Central Luzon.
“A small investment by supporting the technology innovation and startup can go a long way in actually increasing and enhancing the growth in the region,” he said.
Data from the agency shows that TBI has been able to assist 1,364 startups which created 5,144 jobs and P250 million investment.
Paringit urged incubatees to maximize the mentorship, support and resources of ASLAGAN-TBI, and to converge their talent and resources to create more innovative products.
“You get better mentoring and guidance from the representatives of the industry to ensure the success of your business. It [ASLAGAN-TBI] will be a platform that provides entrepreneurs and innovators with mentorship, resources and support to empower you to plan solutions that address the industry’s challenges and opportunities,” he said.
For his part, DOST Regional Director Julius Caesar Sicat reminded the incubatees to employ smart technology in expanding their businesses.
“Don’t forget the use of smart technology. Do not be confined by the four corners of TBI or the boundaries of the province or region. Through smart technology, we can reach out in accessing raw materials and marketing our products,” he said.
Sicat also said that DOST will remain steadfast in providing technology assistance, along with the central direction, leadership, and coordination of scientific and technological endeavors to maximize economic and social benefits for the people.
“We will continue to work closely with our partners, government, industry, academe and civil society to achieve our goals and to build a better future for both Filipinos because we believe that together we can make a tangible difference in building a safer, more resilient Central Luzon for now and the future generation,” Sicat added.
He also hopes to see progress among the incubatees with the assistance of ASLAGAN-TBI.
Among the services of ASLAGAN-TBI are: Pamanintun [to find] which involves market research and analysis, networking opportunities, and funding and investment assistance; Pamagluid [to conserve] which assists incubatees in the access to industry-specific resources, supply chain management, business planning and strategy.
Also, Pamanggawa [to create] which entails regulatory/legal compliance support, product development support and mentorship and coaching; and Pamisali [to market] which focuses on branding and marketing support, intellectual property support and mentorship and coaching. (PIA 3)
