RPIUC strengthens student startups through expert-led sessions

Promoting innovation and entrepreneurship through experiential learning, Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (MSEUF)'s Research Publication, Incubation and Utilization Center (RPIUC) conducted an information session to prepare aspiring student entrepreneurs for the Enverga Startup Innovation Challenge.

The workshop equipped participants with practical knowledge and tools for transforming innovative ideas into viable startup ventures. The Research Publication, Incubation and Utilization Center invited startup mentors and innovation practitioners to discuss startup development, prototyping and pitching.

Darwin Kim Bulawan, senior program manager at Aboitiz Data Innovation, opened the workshop with “Startup Primer: Startup 101.” He introduced participants to the startup ecosystem, entrepreneurial mindset and Business Model Canvas to help them develop their initial business concepts.

John Rover Sinag, head of the Center for Marketing Innovation and Digital Engagement, led the second session. After an interactive startup activity, he discussed effective prototype development and introduced digital tools that entrepreneurs can use to design, test and refine their ideas.

Erika Marca, a faculty member of the College of Computing and Multimedia Studies, concluded the learning sessions with practical strategies for developing clear, concise and compelling pitch decks. She discussed the key elements that can help participants communicate their ideas effectively to judges and potential investors.

During the open forum, participants sought advice from the speakers on improving their startup concepts. Host Rica Tarayao closed the workshop by encouraging students to register for the Enverga Startup Innovation Challenge and apply the lessons they gained from the sessions.

Through the initiative, the University strengthened its innovation ecosystem by connecting students with industry-driven knowledge and practical entrepreneurial experience. The workshop also prepared participants to develop solutions, communicate their ideas and pursue opportunities as future innovators and entrepreneurs.

The workshop supports MSEUF’s commitment to learning by doing and transformative education by giving students practical opportunities to develop, test and present innovative ideas. It also reflects the University’s core values of Excellence and Fortitude by encouraging participants to strengthen their skills, respond to challenges and pursue entrepreneurial initiatives.

• SDG 4: Quality Education — The workshop provided practical and industry-relevant learning experiences that strengthened students’ entrepreneurial and communication skills.
• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth — Startup development and entrepreneurship training can help students create employment opportunities and contribute to inclusive economic growth.
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure — The sessions promoted innovation, prototyping and the development of startup concepts that may address real-world needs.