Marikina City, Philippines—On April 29, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) launched the Philippine Innovation Hub (iHub), an initiative designed to empower startups and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The iHub will provide comprehensive support at every stage of their development, from ideation to global expansion.

DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque seated at a desk between the Philippine and DTI flags, delivering her recorded speech for the Philippine Innovation Hub Launch.
DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque during her recorded speech for the Philippine Innovation Hub Launching

“As directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., we are fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem that empowers not only our startups but also our MSMEs—the backbone of our economy, comprising 99.5% of our businesses and 60% of our workforce,” said DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

“This hub is not just a physical space, but a vision brought to life, designed to cultivate innovation. It is a launchpad for creativity, providing startups and established MSMEs with the resources, mentorship, and investment they need to thrive,” she added.

Located within the Marikina Enterprise Center and operated by the DTI’s National Development Company (NDC), this five-story facility will leverage the expertise of iHub and its knowledge partners to deliver incubation and acceleration programs. These programs will encompass an organizational development workshop, a one-stop shop, a shared service facility, retail and coworking spaces, and a physical venue for events hosted by its private and public sector partners.

A large group of people, likely over 50, are gathered on the steps in front of a building with "MARIKINA ENTERP" visible at the top. Many individuals in the foreground are holding up phones and cameras, seemingly taking photos of the group. The people in the main group are dressed in a mix of formal and business casual attire. Several individuals in the front row appear to be wearing leis or sashes. The overall atmosphere suggests a formal event or gathering.
In photo: Senator Koko Pimentel, Cong. Stella A. Quimbo Representative, 2nd District of Marikina City, Anti-Red Tape Authority Secretary Ernesto V. Perez, DTI-Regional Operations Group Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona, National Development Company General Manager Saturnino H. Mejia, Department of Information and Communications Technology Secretary Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa Sigue, Social Security System President and CEO Joseph M. De Claro, Former deputy speaker and former representative of the 2nd district of Marikina Atty. Miro Quimbo

“While Marikina has long been known as the footwear capital of the Philippines, today it takes a bold step toward hosting the Philippine Innovation Hub. This is a strategic move to equip our entrepreneurs, creatives, and tech talents with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive in the modern economy,” said Congresswoman Stella Luz A. Quimbo of Marikina’s 2nd District.

The iHub has set an initial goal of supporting 50 MSMEs and 50 to 75 startups in its first year, projecting significant growth to reach 500 to 750 startups and 500 MSMEs within a five-year timeframe.

The iHub’s ribbon-cutting ceremony conveyed key government and private sector leaders, marking the beginning of a visionary initiative forged through robust partnerships.

Aligned with the Philippine Innovation Act and the Philippine Startup Act, this strategic effort equips the Filipino workforce to excel in a competitive, globally connected economy.

About the iHub:

The iHub was established under Republic Act No. 11337 (otherwise known as “The Innovative Startup Act”), Republic Act No. 11293 (popularly known as “The Philippine Innovation Act”), and Republic Act No. 11904 (otherwise known as “The Philippine Creative Industries Development Act”). Led by the NDC in partnership with the DTI, Department of Information and Communications Technology, and the National Innovation Council, the iHub provides a collaborative platform for startups, entrepreneurs, government agencies, and stakeholders to develop cutting-edge solutions.

The iHub will be home to key initiatives including the Startup Venture Fund, which is poised to fuel further growth and expansion of market access for local businesses. Through targeted programs, the iHub will empower startups across diverse sectors, such as footwear and creative industries, equipping them with the resources and tools to achieve sustainable growth and global competitiveness.

The iHub at Marikina Enterprise Centre is located at the NACIDA Compound in Marikina City. The five-story facility was developed by the Department of Public Works and Highways. The NDC provides oversight of the iHub’s roadmap, program implementation, and facility management to ensure its alignment with the vision of an innovative and future-ready “Bagong Pilipinas.”

About the NDC:

The NDC, the government’s investment arm of the DTI, stands as the Philippines’ leading state-owned enterprise that invests across diverse industries and serves as a catalyst for inclusive growth.

Mandated under its Revised Charter (PD 1648), the NDC, may, either independently or in partnership with the private sector, undertake vital projects—particularly in cases where high risks or limited resources deter private sector participation.

Under the leadership of its Chairperson, DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque, the NDC, remains committed to its investment mandate that aligns with the DTI’s strategic priorities for long-term national development. It also works closely with other government agencies to advance the national agenda of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

For more information about NDC, visit https://www.ndc.gov.ph/. ♦

Date of Release: 01 May 2025

Related posts:

DTI, gov’t agencies connect farmers and consumers at Kadiwa ng Pangulo in Alaminos DTI, DOT seal landmark deal to empower MSMEs and revitalize local tourism Franchising to fuel Philippine economic growth, drive MSME expansion and job creation – DTI DTI, DepEd ink MOA to promote youth entrepreneurship in Western Visayas farm schools DTI, SM Prime kick off business continuity training for enterprises in Rizal DTI turns over PHP30-M improved farm-to-market road in Lanao Del Norte Bigger, Better, More Impactful: Discover the Soul of Filipino Flavor at the 2025 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair DTI hosts learning tour for over 400 University of Northern Philippines students