The Department of Science and Technology in the Caraga Region (DOST-13) is bringing researchers, technology developers, businesses, and local governments together to turn government-funded innovations into practical solutions during the two-day Mindanao Innovation Technology Transfer Summit here.
The summit, held from Oct. 27 to 28, brings together around 250 researchers, technology developers, businesses, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), startups, local government units (LGUs) and other stakeholders from across Mindanao and other parts of the country.
“The summit serves as a venue for technology exhibitions and presentations, technology matching, consultations and partnership-building activities,” DOST-13 Regional Director Noel Ajoc said during a press conference on Wednesday.
Ajoc said the summit is the first of its kind conducted in Caraga and the second held in Mindanao.
“Researchers and technology developers not only in Mindanao but also from other parts of the country are now showcasing the technologies they developed, funded by the government through the DOST,” Ajoc said.
The summit also seeks to explore how research and innovations can be translated into practical solutions that address the needs of communities, businesses, and local governments.
“Part of the gathering is an activity called reverse pitching, which means LGUs and the business sector will be asked what innovations they need, which will be developed by our scientists and technology developers,” Ajoc said.
Researchers and technology developers will also pitch innovations that are already available for adoption by LGUs, businesses and communities.
Ajoc described the summit as a marketing venue where available technologies can be presented to potential adopters and beneficiaries, particularly LGUs and businesses.
“These technologies are already available for LGUs who are interested to adopt and businesses who are willing to venture,” Ajoc said.
He said DOST can support businesses and LGUs interested in adopting available technologies through the agency’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), provide assistance to businesses seeking to adopt and operate appropriate technologies (PNA)