In a historic breakthrough for Western Visayas, Iloilo City has officially entered the Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2025, debuting at Rank #744 worldwide and clinching the Top 5 spot in the Philippines. Released by StartupBlink, one of the world’s leading startup ecosystem research centers, the report highlights the global rise of cities transforming into centers of innovation and entrepreneurship. This year, Iloilo City joins that prestigious list—marking not just a win for the city, but for the entire region.
For years, Iloilo has been quietly nurturing the roots of a startup-friendly environment. From the revival of downtown districts to the rise of mixed-use business parks, from universities embracing tech incubation to public and private collaborations that spark innovation, Iloilo’s journey has been one of focused, collective momentum.
Building an Ecosystem, One Idea at a Time
Behind this milestone is a powerful coalition of enablers. At the forefront is the Department of Science and Technology Region VI (DOST VI), whose sustained support through innovation grants, competitions, and incubation programs has laid the groundwork for startup growth. In partnership with the UMWAD Western Visayas consortium, composed of leading academic institutions and innovation hubs, a strong community of entrepreneurs and mentors is steadily growing.
Technology Business Incubators (TBIs)—hosted by universities and supported by government agencies—have also played a critical role in shaping the city’s innovation pipeline. These TBIs provide aspiring entrepreneurs with much-needed access to mentoring, workspace, and funding opportunities that bring early-stage ideas to life.
But none of this would be possible without the startups themselves—driven, daring, and deeply rooted in solving local problems with global potential. Their agility and resilience have proven that innovation can thrive even outside Metro Manila, reinforcing the narrative that provincial cities are no longer just talent exporters, but also incubators of world-class ideas.
The Private Sector Steps Up: INSYNC by PCCI Iloilo
As the leading business organization in the city, PCCI Iloilo is stepping in to strengthen the link between startups and the broader business community. Through its flagship program, INSYNC (Innovation Synergy and Startup Collaboration), PCCI Iloilo connects startups with mentors, investors, and market opportunities. The program bridges gaps, accelerates collaboration, and helps transform bold ideas into sustainable ventures.
“The recognition by StartupBlink validates the groundwork we’ve all been doing,” PCCI Iloilo Engr. Fulbert Woo remarked. “Through INSYNC, we’re investing in the next generation of businesses and ensuring that our ecosystem not only survives—but thrives.”
Looking Ahead: Iloilo as an Innovation Capital
This global debut isn’t the finish line—it’s a beginning. It places Iloilo on the radar of international investors, partners, and accelerators, opening the door for cross-border opportunities. More importantly, it sends a message to local startups and aspiring founders: you belong on the global stage.
PCCI Iloilo, along with its partners in government, education, and civil society, is committed to building an ecosystem that is inclusive, resilient, and future-ready. With its rich culture, strategic location, and collaborative spirit, Iloilo is well-positioned to lead the next wave of startup growth in the Visayas—and beyond.
Congratulations to the Iloilo startup community.
Let’s keep innovating, investing, and inspiring. The world is finally watching.
🔗 Read the full StartupBlink 2025 Report here:
https://lp.startupblink.com/report/?utm_source=homepage
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