QBO Innovation

And that’s a wrap on the University of Makati’s Project RISE Cohort 1 ✨

The top 8 teams of UMak’s first incubation cohort took the stage at the Makati Diamond Residences and completely blew us away with their progress and visionary, tech-driven pitches for a more resilient and sustainable Makati.

Huge congratulations to the outstanding teams and special awardees. All teams truly proved that the youth of Makati are ready to shape the future of the Philippines! 🇵🇭

Thank you to our brilliant mentors, judges, our partners from the University of Makati CTIED team, and the City Government of Makati for making this program possible. We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to Asec. Napoleon Juanillo Jr., PhD, Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and Dr. Elyxzur C. Ramos, PhD, CESE, President of the University of Makati, for their invaluable support and commitment to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven solutions among the youth.

The incubation might be over, but their journey as technopreneurs has just begun! 🌟

The stage is set for Makati youth innovators! After weeks of intensive learning, practice and feedback, our Top teams are getting ready for their biggest presentation yet as they pitch their solutions at the University of Makati’s Project RISE 2026 Demo Day. 🚀

Swipe through to get a sneak peak of the projects that are redefining how our young techie Makatizens are contributing solutions to make a better Makati and a better Philippines. 💡

Check your inbox for invites! Join us as we recognize our outstanding teams and celebrate the culmination of this incredible journey! 🏆

On April 24, 2026, IdeaSpace and QBO had the pleasure of hosting GIZ Philippines and its delegation of international startup enablers at our home in Zero Ten Park Manila.

It was an incredible opportunity to pull back the curtain on the Philippine startup landscape and showcase the work we are doing as ecosystem builders, offering the visitors a closer look at the mechanisms driving innovation in the region. By exploring the programs and support systems in place, the delegation gained a deeper understanding of how the Philippines is cultivating its next generation of tech talent and entrepreneurs. This exchange not only showcased the work being done at IdeaSpace and QBO but also emphasized the power of global collaboration in strengthening startup communities worldwide.

Great conversations, better company, and a shared vision for the future of tech. Let’s keep building!

Still looking 👀

We’re continuing the search for a Community & Ecosystem Program Associate to join us at Ideaspace | QBO — someone who’s passionate about bringing founders, partners, and communities together to help strengthen the Philippine startup ecosystem 🌱🚀

If you enjoy building meaningful connections, running impactful programs, and working in fast-moving, mission-driven environments, this might be for you (or someone you know!).

📩 Apply or learn more: tinyurl.com/IFI-QBOHiringCEAssoc
📧 Send your CV to: [email protected]

Tag or share with someone who’d be a great fit 💡