AQTIVATE: Angel Investing Summit Transforms Philippine Startup Landscape

Tuesday, January 2, 2024


QBO Innovation Hub Leads the Charge in Nurturing the Next Generation of Angel Investors

The excitement reverberated through Makati City, Philippines, as the curtains rose on the highly anticipated "AQTIVATE: Angel Investing Short Course." This transformative initiative, powered by QBO Innovation Hub in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines and IdeaSpace Investments, set the stage for a dynamic summit aimed at galvanizing the role of Angel Investors in fueling the growth of emerging startups.

The Crucial Role of Angel Investors in Startup Ecosystems

Embarking on the entrepreneurial journey often brings challenges, with securing capital topping the list. QBO Innovation Hub recognizes the pivotal role of Angel Investors in bridging this capital gap, empowering visionaries to turn their ideas into reality. Angel Investors not only stand to gain profits but also wield significant influence over the trajectory of promising startups.

AQTIVATE Summit Highlights: Voices of Influence

The "AQTIVATE: Angel Investing Summit" brought together luminaries in the world of startup investments. Notable speakers included Ray Alimurung, former CEO and Chairman of Lazada; Quenby Go, Executive Director of MAIN.PH; Martin Cu, Partner at 500 Global; and Paul Taylor, Senior Commercial Officer at the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines. The event also featured leaders of successful Filipino startups, such as Kim Yao of Cloudeats, Jess de Mesa of Kindred, and Saul Molla of Flowerstore – all of whom received their initial investments from Angel Investors.

The AQTIVATE Program: A Comprehensive Approach to Angel Investing Education

In conjunction with the summit, QBO Innovation Hub curated an immersive 3-part AQTIVATE program. Day 2 focused on building a successful startup investment portfolio, led by seasoned investors. Participants gained invaluable insights into optimal capital deployment and high-potential investment opportunities. Day 3 shifted the spotlight to "Closing Angel Investing Deals," offering exceptional insights to enhance participants' angel investment strategies.

QBO Innovation Hub's Vision for Angel Investing in the Philippines

As the leading organization for startups in the Philippines, QBO Innovation Hub is at the forefront of building the angel investing community. The AQTIVATE program aims to develop the next 1,000 angel investors in the country. Katrina Rausa Chan, Executive Director of QBO Innovation Hub, emphasized, "Unlocking private capital is key to fueling growth within the startup landscape in the Philippines."

U.S. Embassy's Support and Collaboration

Pauline Anderson, U.S. Embassy’s Deputy Director for Public Engagement, highlighted the embassy's support in her opening remarks. She commended QBO's efforts, citing their collaboration on previous programs like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) challenge bootcamp, aligning with the Philippine government’s push for inclusive economic growth and global competitiveness in the tech sector.

QBO's Resounding Success in 2023 and Future Commitments

As 2023 draws to a close, QBO Innovation Hub celebrates the success of AQTIVATE: Angel Investing, marking a remarkable year alongside the Philippine Startup Week and the ongoing IdeaSpace Accelerator Program. Looking ahead, QBO remains steadfast in advancing the startup ecosystem, particularly in nurturing the angel investment landscape. Grateful for partner support and a vibrant community, QBO envisions a future filled with innovation and collaboration.

Join the Journey with QBO Innovation Hub

For those ready to take the next step in the world of startups and angel investing, QBO Innovation Hub beckons. Visit their official website at www.qbo.com.ph and embark on a journey towards entrepreneurial success. As QBO continues to lead the charge, the next wave of angel investors and startups in the Philippines awaits an exciting and transformative future.
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