The United Kingdom Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific (APAC) Martin Kent announced the launch of the UK-APAC Tech Growth Program, aimed at helping British technology and innovation firms expand across the region, including the Philippines.
Kent made the announcement during the UK-Southeast Asia Tech Week opening at the Sheraton Manila Hotel in Pasay City.
“We’re thrilled to be working with Kickstart Ventures to launch this program. Kickstart is an organization that shares our vision of driving innovation and scaling tech solutions across borders,” he said.
Kickstart Ventures, a wholly-owned corporate venture capital arm of Globe Telecom, will play a key role in the initiative.
The program is expected to support the Philippine government’s digitalization efforts, particularly in accelerating artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and strengthening cybersecurity.
“The UK is eager to support this agenda and to be part of the Philippines’ digital journey, bringing our expertise and experience to the table,” Kent added.
British Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils also reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to deepening technology partnerships with the country.
“London remains one of the world’s leading fintech hubs, home to firms revolutionizing payments, digital banking, and financial security. The Philippines’ rapidly growing digital economy presents immense opportunities for collaboration,” Beaufils said.
The UK-Southeast Asia Tech Week in Manila gathered 12 UK tech firms specializing in data analytics, Internet of Things (IoT), cybersecurity, AI for enterprises, and consulting. These companies are exploring business opportunities in the Philippines and other Southeast Asian markets.
