Philippine Corporates Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators through the SCENT Program
Last June 22, the ongoing session of the Science and Entrepreneurship Training Program, Modules 5 & 6, organized by Leave a Nest Philippines, took place at their office in Orient Square Building, Pasig City, Philippines.
The Science and Entrepreneurship Training (SCENT) Program spans six months and aims to equip undergraduate and graduate students with a Japanese-style Research and Business mindset. This mindset is vital for translating deep technology innovations into successful commercial ventures. The program offers mentorship and practical exercises to support participants.
SCENT seeks to cultivate innovative mindsets among students, presenting entrepreneurship as an attractive career path for Science and Technology graduates. It imparts both practical and theoretical knowledge to empower future innovators and entrepreneurs, emphasizing perseverance from startup inception to long-term sustainability.
In the first SCENT session, university students from various institutions including De La Salle University, University of the Philippines – Diliman, University of the Philippines – Open University, University of the Philippines – Manila, Mapua University, Ateneo de Manila University, Pamantasang Lungsod ng Maynila, Adamson University, and Cavite State University – Carmona were selected to participate. Seventeen students committed to pursuing innovative ideas addressing significant issues using deep technologies, with a shared goal of Advancing Science and Technology for Global Happiness.
Learn more about SCENT and previous news releases:
- Turning Research into Action: Leave a Nest Philippines Launches Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Training Program in the Philippines
- Behind the empowerment of tomorrow’s Innovators: The Science and Entrepreneurship Training (SCENT) Program hosted by the Leave a Nest Philippines, Inc.
The SCENT program, supported by esteemed Philippine corporate partners like First Gen Corporation, QBO Innovation, and The Law Office of Flores and Ofrin, provides a robust support system aimed at nurturing the next generation of innovators. Each partner contributes distinct expertise and resources essential for equipping innovators with the skills and guidance needed to develop sustainable, deep-tech solutions.
First Gen Corporation, part of the Lopez Group and a leader in the Philippine energy sector, is one of the country's largest independent power producers. Since 1998, First Gen has advanced the natural gas industry and pioneered renewable energy, including geothermal, hydroelectric, wind, and solar power. With an installed capacity of 3,668.2 megawatts, the coal-free operations underscore its commitment to decarbonization and a regenerative future.
As a part of First Philippine Holdings Corporation, First Gen pledges to meet current energy demands sustainably, empowering consumers and enhancing societal well-being while ensuring a resilient and just energy transition.
First Gen Corporation plays a pivotal role in the SCENT Program by providing support to SCENT teams with technical expertise in renewable energy and sustainable practices. Their guidance aids teams in developing innovative solutions that address pressing environmental challenges, leveraging insights from their extensive experience in geothermal, hydroelectric, wind, and solar power.
By sharing practical knowledge and strategic advice, First Gen Corporation enables SCENT teams to refine their ideas and business models, ensuring they are aligned with sustainability principles and market demands. Moreover, First Gen's industry connections and collaborative networks offer teams opportunities for potential partnerships, funding avenues, and market access, essential for scaling their innovations effectively. Through these initiatives, First Gen Corporation empowers SCENT teams to navigate the complexities of energy management and contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable future.
QBO Innovation is one of the leading startup enablers in the Philippines. QBO Innovation is a division of Ideaspace that consults for, and engages with government agencies, academic institutions, international development agencies, and private sector enterprises in driving digital transformation strategies, developing innovation ecosystems, and accelerating technology startup growth. Having been a partner of Leave a Nest Philippines in various initiatives and sharing a mission to support the startup ecosystem, QBO Innovation has also partnered with the SCENT program.
QBO Innovation's support for the SCENT Program significantly enhances the prospects of Filipino innovators aspiring to become successful entrepreneurs. By offering expertise, resources, and strategic connections, QBO Innovation ensures that participants are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the startup world. Their contributions help build a strong foundation for budding innovators, enabling them to develop their ideas into impactful solutions that can drive economic growth and social progress in the Philippines.
The Law Office of Flores and Ofrin was established on May 1, 2019 by Atty. Javier P. Flores and Atty. Amy Irene Arceño Ofrin. It was founded on the vision of creating strategic partnerships with its clients in the development and growth of their businesses and the attainment of their goals. The Firm’s practice focuses on working hand in hand and in close communication with its clients, taking into consideration their values and risk appetite. The Firm aims to provide intuitive, practical, and creative ideas that solve problems and encourage growth and expansion.
Building on the collective experience of its lawyers and non-legal staff, the Firm’s expertise lies in corporate law, litigation, and intellectual property law. With their expertise, they believe they can help the next generation of innovators build their innovations with the guidance of legal experts.
The Law Office of Flores and Ofrin's commitment to supporting innovators through legal expertise fosters an environment where creativity and entrepreneurship can thrive. Their contributions not only ensure legal compliance and protection but also empower SCENT participants to focus on innovation without the distraction of legal uncertainties. By advocating for robust legal foundations and strategic partnerships, the firm plays a pivotal role in shaping a conducive ecosystem for sustainable innovation and economic growth.
Together, First Gen Corporation, QBO Innovation, and The Law Office of Flores and Ofrin provide a comprehensive support system that covers technical expertise, business development, and legal guidance. This collaborative effort ensures that SCENT innovators are well-equipped to tackle significant societal challenges with innovative solutions. By nurturing a generation of innovators focused on sustainability and ethical innovation, these partners contribute significantly to shaping a future where deep-tech innovations drive positive change and economic growth in the Philippines and beyond.
Program Timeline:
The next SCENT module is scheduled for July 27, 2024, focusing on “Protection” and “Presentation.” Leave a Nest continues to invite both local and international corporate partners to support the next generation through SCENT.
These partners can join as general sponsors, potentially serving as judges during demo day or mentors for students working on sustainable solutions for significant issues in the Philippines and beyond.
For inquiries and concerns, you can also contact: Mr. Alexander Gali ([email protected]) or Ms. Edilyn Grace Odero ([email protected])