Subic Bay Freeport launches Business Acceleration Hub and Angel Investor Network

This premier economic zone has strengthened its position as a center for innovation and entrepreneurship with the launching of the SBMA Business Acceleration Hub and the Subic Bay Angel Investor Network at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) on October 20, 2025. The new initiatives are designed to attract investors, accelerate startup growth, and promote technological advancement within and beyond Central Luzon.

During the Dakal Lakad 2025 Demo and Graduation Day, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment Renato Lee III said that the two programs mark a significant milestone in Subic’s growing startup ecosystem. “The project aims to stimulate growth of startups and support them through acceleration with incentives from the SBMA and a business location within the SBFZ. We are also celebrating the graduation of ten startups, coinciding with the launching of the Angel Investor Network,” Lee said.

The SBMA-led Angel Investor Network was established in compliance with Republic Act No. 11337 or the Innovative Startup Act, which seeks to boost the local startup ecosystem through government-backed initiatives. Under the law, startups and startup enablers are entitled to benefits and incentives through the Philippine Startup Development Program, which is jointly managed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT).

Lee also highlighted SBMA’s success in nurturing local enterprises, citing one startup that grew from only two Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) or accounting agents to a 300-strong workforce. “We’re proud to share that SBMA has already incubated and produced a successful startup, proving that Subic is fertile ground for innovation and expansion,” he added.

Ten emerging startups from Central Luzon showcased their innovative ventures during the Dakal Lakad 2025 Demo and Graduation Day. The event, co-organized by SBMA, SULONG Central Luzon, and the Wadhwani Foundation, marked the culmination of a five-month acceleration program aimed at preparing startups for investment and scaling. Graduating startups included Tambanokano Aqua Farm, Dayap Philippines, Project Nitriact, Wisdom | The IP Vault Co., Kilala PH, Kloudtech, Ordermo, Hive Energy PH, InnoVSmarter, and Expoxur.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Engr. Eduardo Jose L. Aliño expressed gratitude to partner government agencies and academic institutions for their support in positioning Subic Bay Freeport as a dynamic platform for business incubation. He reaffirmed SBMA’s commitment to guide and empower entrepreneurs. Among those who graced the event were DICT Region 3 Regional Director Engr. Antonio Edward E. Padre, DTI Region 3 Assistant Regional Director Richard V. Simangan, DOST Pampanga Provincial S&T Director Engr. Mary Michelle M. Quiambao, and Bulacan State University–Main Campus Chancellor Dr. Ruben E. Borja II.