Part of the program that aims to empower early-stage startups through funding, mentorship, and access to a vibrant innovation network.
During their Demo Day at Gallery MiraNila by The Blue Leaf, the Quezon City Government recognized seven outstanding startups with PHP1 million equity-free grants each as part of the Startup QC Cohort 4 program.
In collaboration with startup accelerator Launchgarage, the event gathered founders, investors, and policymakers in celebration of the city’s growing reputation as the country’s innovation and startup capital.
Out of nine (9) finalists, seven (7) startups were chosen for their innovative, scalable, and socially attuned solutions.
This year’s Cohort 4 grantees represent key industries that mirror the evolving needs of Filipino communities, ranging from clean energy and human resource development to recreation, health innovation, and digital transformation.
These startups in Quezon City are also responding to real challenges faced by Filipinos.
Briyo builds modular, bamboo-based wind and hydro turbines for off-grid communities in the sustainable energy category.
AI-powered freelance hiring and KPI matching platform Hireable is in the human resource technology segment, together with Kazam On-Demand Services—which is a flexible online marketplace for part-time household help.
The two grantees reflect changes in work today, from hybrid jobs to the gig economy, providing flexible income opportunities and fair access to employment for freelancers and informal workers.
Laro is sports and recreation booking and community app.
Meanwhile, Agap.ai is an AI-powered developmental screening tool for parents, which can help in monitoring their children’s developmental milestones, promoting early intervention even outside formal healthcare settings.
Soolok aims to treamline foreclosure data and home acquisition within 45 days in the property technology front.
Last, but not least, is Xamun.AI, an AI platform that converts business requirements into applications in weeks.
Together, these startups show that innovation in Quezon City is practical, socially aware, and designed to improve lives while contributing to broader conversations on sustainability and technology.
Beyond financial support, the Startup QC Program provides capacity-building,mentorship, and access to investors and potential clients.
This also strengthens Quezon City’s role as an active enabler of entrepreneurship as it bridges startups with industries and creating a sustainable innovation pipeline.
Launched under the leadership of Mayor Joy Belmonte, the Startup QC Program also aims to drive inclusive economic growth, sustainability, and digital transformation across the city.
“Innovation is not just about technology — it is about empathy, service, and equity,” said Mayor Joy Belmonte. “Through Startup QC, we are proving that governance and innovation can work hand in hand, that a local government can be both visionary and inclusive.”
To further strengthen its innovation ecosystem, the City is also finalizing the Business Investment and Trade Incentives for Startups (BITIS) Ordinance, which will provide fiscal incentives and a supportive environment for entrepreneurs to scale and succeed.
The Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (LEDIPO) will spearhead its official launch under the Invest with QC campaign.