QBO Innovation Hub deploys PHP 2B fund to back 200 Philippine deep-tech startups
What's the deal? QBO Innovation HubDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, the Philippines' public-private startup accelerator, has deployed a PHP 2 billion fund to back 200 deep-tech startups in 2026. The focus is on artificial intelligence, blockchain for supply chains, and climate technology. QBO is co-managed by IdeaSpace FoundationDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
Why now? The fund marks the full implementation of the Innovative Startup Act, documented in DOST's Philippine Startup Grant Fund Report 2026. It signals a shift from consumer apps toward intellectual property-rich enterprises that can compete globally.
What's the endgame? QBO runs an innovation sandbox that lets startups test products without the full weight of legacy regulations. In 2026, it greenlit a blockchain-based land title verification pilot with the Land Registration Authority, enabling agritech startups to offer collateral-free loans to farmers. The 2026 cycle drew 340 applications, with 22% from outside the capital.
Where the money goes: The climate tech track received PHP 600 million for startups in renewable energy, waste-to-value, and climate-resilient agriculture. One graduate, HumbleDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, converts fish processing waste into biodegradable packaging and recently secured follow-on investment from a Singaporean impact fund. QBO's 2026 demo day saw 14 startups secure a combined $58 million in commitments, a 210% jump from the previous year.
Inclusive innovation remains part of the mandate. QBO's grassroots "Lokal" program backs firms like PackworksDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, a SaaS platform digitising sari-sari stores that now serves 220,000 neighbourhood shops across the archipelago.
Their words: "The blend of government grants and QBO's venture-building expertise de-risks these hard-tech startups for global investors," said Katrina Chan, QBO's executive director. "We are essentially a talent and IP factory for the next generation of Philippine unicorns."
The signal: The QBO model reflects a shift in Philippine innovation policy — from passive grant provider to active ecosystem architect. As the PHP 2 billion fund enters its second phase, the country is building a pipeline aimed at both financial returns and social and environmental impact.
Read more: SeaDaily
Image credit: Generated with Gemini
