QC launches business plan competition for students

The Quezon City government has launched a business plan competition to develop students’ innovative ideas through financial grants and mentorship sessions.

The contest is an expansion of the StartUp QC program, which provides support to the local startup community in Quezon City.

“Schools are a great source of future business leaders, innovators and creative thinkers. Through this competition, we can develop the potential and skills of our students and help them create the next inspiring business success story,” Mayor Joy Belmonte said in a statement.

The competition is open to students and groups with at least one member residing in Quezon City, at least 18 years old and currently enrolled in any college or university in the Philippines.

Shortlisted applicants will undergo capacity-building activities, including lectures, mentoring and network-building sessions.

Winners may receive up to P100,000 along with other prizes.

Quezon City’s Local Economic and Investments Promotion Office has partnered with national government agencies, colleges and universities as well as members of the startup community for the project.

Partners include the Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, Ateneo de Manila University, Miriam College, Thames International, Technological Institute of the Philippines, University of the Philippines-Diliman, Quezon City University, Launchgarage and StartUp Village.

“The QC government continues to connect with universities and colleges, within and outside of Quezon City, to promote the program and invite participants who will undergo preliminary evaluation for admission to the competition,” city hall said.

Applicants may register at qceservices.quezoncity.gov.ph until Feb. 16.