Procter & Gamble (P&G) Philippines has joined forces with QBO Innovation Hub to introduce the vGrow SHOWQASE, an open innovation program designed to unlock the potential of the Philippine startup ecosystem. This initiative will facilitate the connection of external partners and startups with inventive solutions to address P&G Philippines’ business challenges and opportunities.
Since its inception in 2017, the vGrow initiative has been successfully introduced in various nations, such as India, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, and New Zealand. It is designed to stimulate inventiveness and collaboration with startups, small enterprises, and other partners in pivotal global markets.
QBO Innovation is a subsidiary of Ideaspace, providing consultancy and collaboration for government bodies, academic institutions, international development organizations, and private enterprises. Their focus is on driving digital transformation strategies, cultivating innovation ecosystems, and accelerating the growth of technology startups.
The vGrow SHOWQASE launch event was graced by the presence of P&G Philippines General Manager Agraj Sharma, Purchasing Senior Director of P&G APAC Shivangi Jain, and Purchasing Director of P&G Philippines Marlon De Vera. QBO Innovation Executive Director Jay Fajardo also shared his insights.
During the event, 18 high-potential startups presented their innovative solutions to P&G’s top executives. The startups were selected from a pool of applicants based on their potential to solve P&G’s business challenges and opportunities.
The startups that participated in the vGrow SHOWQASE are in the post-MVP (Minimum Viable Product) stage in the Human Resources and Employee Health and Wellness, Sales Development and Retail Operations, Transport and Logistics, Market Strategy and Promotions, Customization and Value Added Services, and Brand and Creative industries.
Following the presentations, three startups were distinguished: CognitiveAI for the Most Innovative Solution, Betterteem as the Best Pitcher, and DHL for the Industry Leadership award.
The collaboration between P&G and QBO Innovation Hub is a pivotal stride in nurturing innovation and cooperation within the Philippine startup landscape. It furnishes a platform for startups to present their pioneering solutions and forge connections with potential partners and investors. This, in turn, will fuel the expansion of the Philippine startup environment and the creation of novel products and services for Filipino consumers.
For more information on QBO, visit their website at qbo.com.ph or follow its social media accounts at @QBOInnovation.
