University startups play a crucial role in driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development by transforming academic research and ideas into market-ready products and services. Founded by students, faculty, and researchers, these ventures bridge theory and practice, enabling universities to generate practical solutions to real-world challenges while advancing knowledge commercialization.
A key contribution of university startups lies in fostering innovation and economic growth. By leveraging universities’ strong research capabilities, startups develop cutting-edge technologies and novel business models that enhance industry competitiveness. At the same time, they create employment opportunities, attract investments, and stimulate local entrepreneurial ecosystems. Participation in startups also equips students and young professionals with practical skills, hands-on experience, and exposure to real business environments, preparing them for leadership roles in the future.
The UP Diliman Technology Transfer and Business Development Office organized Tektalk: Pahina held at the Maynilad Room, Melchor Hall in the College of Engineering last November 17, 2025. It aims to foster collaboration between the academia, industry, and government wherein these partnerships can help facilitate technology transfer and research commercialization. The program was part of the “Saliksikhay: Research, Innovation, Development and Extension (RIDE) Festival: lead by the UP Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Development (OVCRD). In this activity, UP ISSI business mentors were engaged to guide the participants as they navigate the early stages of venture development. Engr. Joshua Garcia, MBA and Ms. Janelle Faye Tanudtanud, MCD from the Business Enterprise and Development Division and Engr. Jefferson Sumalabe, MBA, Mr. Ron Allan Estrebillo, MSSc, Ms. Allysa de Guzman, MTM, and Ms. Senedith delos Reyes, MBA from the Training and Entrepreneurship Education Division provided their expertise during the free one-on-one business consultations.