Empowering Innovation: CdeO's Journey Towards a Thriving Startup Ecosystem

 Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia lies Singapore, a bustling city-state renowned for its exceptional infrastructure, robust influx of foreign investments, highly skilled workforce, booming tourism industry, and business-friendly environment that fosters prosperity.

        A key contributor to Singapore's economic ascent lies in its commitment to fostering innovation and nurturing startup ventures. Through government-backed policies, grants, and mentorship programs, Singapore has cultivated an environment where startups can thrive, solidifying its position as the premier destination for startups in the region.

Photo credits: VM Bebot Rodriguez official Facebook page

          Drawing inspiration from Singapore, let us shift our focus to Cagayan de Oro City. Ranked as the third-best city for startups in the Philippines, 16th in Southeast Asia, and 661st globally for active startup operations, Cagayan de Oro's potential for growth and global recognition is undeniable. 

       Beyond the numbers, cultivating a dynamic startup ecosystem promises to stimulate economic growth, generate employment opportunities, encourage innovation, and enhance overall competitiveness. 

            Behind this initiative is Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez, who envisions a Cagayan de Oro on the global stage of innovation through the proposed CDO Startup Ecosystem Initiatives. This groundbreaking ordinance is strategically designed to support startups at various stages of development and establish the Cagayan de Oro Start-up Consortium (CDO StartCon) as a central coordinating body.

Photo credits: VM Bebot Rodriguez official Facebook page

        CDO StartCon will play a pivotal role in facilitating collaborative efforts among stakeholders, streamlining local startup registrations, establishing a startup fund, developing assistance programs, providing incentive support and intervention, and actively promoting diverse startup events within the city. 

            Proving that she is more than lip service, Vice Mayor Bebot presented her proposal during the Consultation Forum on Startup and Innovation Consortium organized by Oro Trade and Investment Promotions Center (ORO-TIPC) and DTI-Misamis Oriental, as well as at the 2023 Research & Innovation Summit of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP). Through these forums, she was able to gather valuable insights and suggestions on the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in achieving this goal.

By forging the path to a flourishing startup ecosystem, Vice Mayor Bebot is positioning her startup ecosystem initiatives as a catalyst for the city’s boundless growth and prosperity.