Geeks on a Beach 2023 | Philippine Startup Week

Introduction

The Company Cebu, a leading co-working space committed to fostering innovation and collaboration, had the unique opportunity to participate in Geeks On A Beach (GOAB) 2023. Held at The Bellevue Resort Panglao in Bohol from November 23-24, this event brought together startup founders, innovators, investors, and industry leaders to shape the future of tech and design startups in the Philippines. In this blog article, we’ll delve into The Company Cebu’s experience at GOAB, highlighting key insights, notable speakers, and the impact on the local startup ecosystem.

GOAB Day 1: Setting the Stage

The conference kicked off with a powerful keynote address by Ivan John Uy, the Secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). Secretary Uy highlighted the transformative growth of the Philippine startup ecosystem, emphasizing the collaborative efforts that have turned the country into a pivotal regional hub for startups and digital innovation. The commitment to accelerating digital transformation and nurturing startup growth through the Innovative Startup Act of 2019 was a focal point of Secretary Uy’s address.

Following the keynote, a panel discussion featuring prominent startup founders, including Roland Ros of Kumu, ER Rollan of GrowSari, and Steve Sy of Great Deals Ecommerce, provided valuable insights. These industry leaders underscored the importance of mindset in overcoming startup challenges and shared personal anecdotes from their entrepreneurial journeys. The recurring theme was the need for resilience, efficient scaling, and adaptability to the fast-paced nature of the startup landscape.

The significance of the GOAB in conjunction with the Philippine Startup Week showcased the potential of Filipino technopreneurs, aligning with the theme of “Investing in Filipino Homegrown Heroes as Global Game Changers.” Secretary Uy’s vision of providing unwavering support for local startups set an optimistic tone for the future.

As the day unfolded, more founders and investors took the stage, contributing their insights and tips. Participants had the opportunity to join breakout sessions covering various topics, from tech and startups to AI. The diverse range of discussions allowed attendees to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current trends and challenges in the industry.

GOAB Day 2: Building Momentum

The second day of GOAB continued the momentum with additional startup founders and investors sharing their expertise. The emphasis remained on collaboration and learning, providing a platform for the exchange of ideas to further develop the Philippine Startup Community.

One standout moment was the interaction with Nel Laygo, CEO and Founder of Peddlr, a free POS mobile app for small businesses. Nel shared his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the challenges he faced, including the initial difficulty in securing investor support. His story reflected the resilience and determination characteristic of successful startup founders.

The day concluded at the Bohol Cultural Center, where the Geeks, government representatives, and guests gathered to celebrate the success of GOAB and the Philippine Startup Week. The sense of accomplishment and unity among the participants marked the end of a transformative event.

The Company Cebu’s Perspective

For The Company Cebu, attending GOAB was not just about participating in an event; it was an investment in the future of the local startup ecosystem. The insights gained from industry leaders, the networking opportunities, and the collaborative spirit fostered at GOAB contribute to The Company Cebu’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for startups to thrive.

As a co-working space, The Company Cebu recognizes the importance of being at the forefront of industry trends and developments. The connections made at GOAB will undoubtedly lead to new opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and growth within The Company Cebu’s vibrant community.

Conclusion

Geeks On A Beach 2023 was more than just a conference; it was a convergence of minds, ideas, and aspirations for the future of the Philippine startup ecosystem. The Department of Information and Communications Technology’s commitment, the insights from experienced founders, and the collaborative spirit of the event set the stage for a dynamic and prosperous future.

The Company Cebu’s participation in GOAB reflects its dedication to being a catalyst for innovation and collaboration. As the Philippines solidifies its position as the fastest-growing economy in Asia, the foundation laid at events like GOAB will play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of the local startup ecosystem. The Company Cebu looks forward to being an active participant in this exciting journey, providing a supportive space for startups to thrive and flourish.