Strategic and Collaborative Alliance for Leveraging Ecosystem (SCALE NCR), a consortium of technology business innovators (TBIs), on Tuesday announced the launching of platforms to accelerate the growth of technology-based startups and business enterprises in Metro Manila.

SCALE National Capital Region (NCR) is among the nine regional consortiums funded by the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology (DOST-PCIEERD), through the Regional Startup Enabler for Ecosystem Development (ReSEED) program.

In a press conference, Cristina Ibañez, TBI manager, said the SCALE-NCR plays a pivotal role in promoting and accelerating the growth of startups within the NCR as it “offers mentorship, funding opportunities, strategic partnerships, and specialized resources.”

“By 2028, we envision to be the leader in start-up initiatives and entrepreneurial ecosystem in the country… we are committed to establishing a robust collaboration with various start-ups enablers in the country,” she said.

Ibañez added that SCALE NCR aims to improve Metro Manila’s standing in the global startup ecosystem ranking, currently placed at 81st to 90th.

She said the development of the Startup Institute, a platform dedicated to providing education, resources, and mentorship, will equip different startup stakeholders with the necessary entrepreneurial skills and knowledge.

The pilot training sessions will be held on Sept. 20 and 23 at the Colegio of Muntinlupa, she added.

SCALE NCR will also launch its NCR Investors Network, a platform to enable startups, businesses, or projects seeking funding to connect with investors who can provide capital and valuable mentorship.

The network aims to promote startup investment education and awareness by hosting workshops and seminars on trends, best practices, and opportunities in the investment landscape.

Meanwhile, engineer Romelen Tresvalles, regional director of DOST-NCR, said they have supported SCALE NCR in product prototyping and product validation stages for two years already.

She said the plans and technical support they provide will help startups cater to both local and international markets. (PNA)