As part of its annual application process, the Agribusiness and Developed Processed Products- Technology Business Incubator (ADePt-TBI) culminated this year’s Pre-Incubation Training Series (PITS) for Cohort 3 applicants on 13-15 May 2024 through a Technology Pitching session to showcase the applicants’ innovative ways to utilize and commercialize DA-Cagayan Valley’s food processing technologies.
The three-day activity intended to capacitate the applicants in understanding and applying the foundations of an incubated agribusiness startup endeavor, resulting in a defined business model and the capacity to communicate effectively their business idea.
The first day of the training focused on providing participants with a foundational understanding of the incubation process and the entrepreneurial mindset through sessions covering Incubator 101, Entrepreneurial Mind Setting, Tech Transfer 101, and Tech. Pitch 101.
Following this, participants were introduced to Design Thinking and the Business Model Canvas to foster a human-centered approach to problem-solving and help participants develop a comprehensive framework for their business models.
Culminating the training was the technology pitching session, allowing participants to showcase their innovative ideas, demonstrate how they could leverage DA-Cagayan Valley’s food processing technologies, and receive feedback from experts and peers. The following groups presented their business model canvases and product prototypes:
Timpuyog Iti Babbalasang Idi Kalman Association pitched the utilization of mushroom powder to create instant vegetarian noodles that provide a convenient and healthy alternative to traditional instant noodles. Meanwhile, David's Agribusiness presented their integration of the Mushroom Kropek technology into their existing production of mushroom processed products, expanding their product line and catering to the growing demand for healthy snack options. Also, Exponent Credit Cooperative pitched their plans for the mushroom seasoning to be commercialized by their members engaged in mushroom processing.
Utilizing the region’s gourmix, Nueva Vizcaya Cacao Growers Association Inc. presented a prototype to create a ready-to-eat chocolate porridge infused with vegetables, offering a nutritious and delicious option for consumers. Fredelina's Food Products delivered a compelling pitch for the market positioning of Cafe Bagga and Maize Silky Sip, highlighting their potential to appeal to health-conscious consumers and drive demand for OPV and glutinous corn. Further, San Mariano Farmers Agriculture Cooperative and Abet's Duck Farm presented their plans for the commercialization of Patochon, a duck-based product, in Isabela and Nueva Vizcaya, respectively, aiming to tap into the potential of the local duck industry and meet consumer demand for innovative and sustainable food products.
Conversely, there were also applicants who presented their own technologies. Better Bater Quail Farm shared their innovative approach to adding value to quail eggs. Sheng Aquaculture and Fattened Mud Crab Farming proposed a solution to help mud crab farmers increase the value of their mature crabs. Also, Tres Canis Pet Supplies pitched their rabbit meat processing technologies, showcasing the potential for value-added rabbit meat products to erase the stigma against rabbit meat consumption and exploring new markets for protein sources.
The Cohort 3 applicants will be evaluated based on their business model canvases, technology readiness, and technology pitches. Those selected will be invited to join ADePt-TBI's incubation program, where they will receive further support and resources to develop their businesses and bring their innovative ideas to market.
Prior to the event, 12 incubatees successfully completed their basic and advanced incubation programs under the ADePt-TBI. Their achievements were recognized during the moving up and graduation ceremonies held in Gamu, Isabela. The 4 advanced incubation graduates adopted the following technologies: PakGulay vegetable processing; integrated farming; Neeruma peanut processing; and Café Bagga, Panderise, and soy processing. While, the 8 basic incubation completers adopted the greenhouse technology, herb production, duck meat processing, off-season onion production, mushroom production and processing, fish processing, adlay processing, and tomato processing.
DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) Program Development Division head Raymond Patrick L. Cabrera graced the activity. Funded by the DA-BAR in 2021, the ADePt-TBI Program of the DA-Cagayan Valley was the first DA-based technology business incubator in the country. It aims to provide an enabling environment for their incubatees to be adept in the operations of their technology-based agribusinesses through its incubator services, while supporting and promoting DA-Cagayan Valley-developed innovative agriculture technologies.