Bridging Research and Industry: SPRINT-STEP Kickoff Empowers Future Tech Leaders
- Chrystian Perote
- Jun 26, 2025
- 2 min read
The Short-term Program for Researchers on Innovation and Technopreneurship - Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Program (SPRINT-STEP) officially launched its second cycle through a one-day intensive Kickoff Event held at The Loft, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University on June 20, 2025. Organized by the Ateneo Intellectual Property Office (AIPO) in partnership with DOST-PCIEERD, the event welcomed researchers, startup teams, and innovation champions from across the country.
The program opened with welcome remarks from Dr Proceso “Jon” Fernandez, Director of AIPO, who emphasized the growing need to bridge the gap between research and industry through spin-offs and market-driven innovation.
Following the opening, keynote speaker Dr Francis Aldrine Uy—founder of USHER Technologies and a leading figure in tech resilience—discussed the importance of spinning off technologies to unlock commercial success.
Throughout the morning session, key resource persons from AIPO and John Gokongwei School of Management (JGSOM) delivered foundational talks on entrepreneurship and innovation. Engr. Benjamin N. Mirasol, AIPO’s Head of the Commercialization and Business Incubation Group, led two sessions focused on Technology-Based Entrepreneurship and Time and Resource Management. These were followed by Marketing Basics delivered by Mr. Antonio Jr P Feria from the JGSOM, Ateneo.
The afternoon activities emphasized collaborative learning. A Pathway Ideation Workshop was facilitated by Mr George “GQ” Quitoriano (AIPO’s Resident Entrepreneur), Steve Chaves, RN, MTM (Head of Ideation Support Group), and Mariela Alcaparas, M Sc (Ideation Support). This workshop guided participants through structured brainstorming to define strategic pathways for their respective technologies.
This was followed by a panel discussion with previous FASTRAC grantees, moderated by Dolf Mirelle Montecillo of DOST-PCIEERD. The session provided current STEP participants with valuable insights into the challenges and milestones of innovation commercialization.
Ms Russell Pili, Chief Technology Transfer Officer of PCIEERD, closed the program by reiterating the importance of continuity and collaboration in research-to-market initiatives.
Adding to the engaging atmosphere, interactive booths were installed throughout the venue in an activity titled “The Great STEP Quest: Unlock the Program, One Station at a Time!” These encouraged connection and community-building among participants, while showcasing the four key components of the STEP program:
Face-to-Face Events
Online Learning Sessions
Feedback Sessions
Graduation Day
Attendees were encouraged to explore these stations and learn more about the holistic approach of the STEP journey. The day concluded with a networking session.
As the SPRINT- STEP moves forward, participants will undergo a structured learning experience designed to equip them with the tools, mentorship, and exposure necessary to transform their technologies into viable ventures.
The SPRINT-STEP project supports AIPO’s vision to nurture sustainable innovations ultimately purposed to serve the needs of the community and society.
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To know more about the SPRINT-STEP and Ateneo Intellectual Property Office, visit: www.aipo.ateneo.edu/sprint-step and www.aipo.ateneo.edu or follow them on social media for the latest updates and announcements via www.fb.com/AteneoIPO or www.linkedin.com/company/AteneoIPO.
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The SPRINT-STEP kickoff event highlights the critical role of practical workshops, like the Pathway Ideation Workshop led by experienced entrepreneurs. This hands-on approach can significantly enhance participants' understanding of how to navigate the commercialization process of their innovations. As someone interested in tech development, I find that integrating structured brainstorming into the planning phase can lead to more effective decision-making. For those exploring similar strategies in their projects, insights from such workshops could be beneficial, much like the detailed guides available at Abyssus for managing resources effectively.
It's inspiring to see initiatives like SPRINT-STEP fostering collaboration between researchers and the tech industry. Dr. Francis Aldrine Uy’s insights on technology spin-offs really stood out; they emphasize the potential for commercial success through innovation. As someone involved in tech entrepreneurship, I appreciate programs that bridge academia and market needs. For more insights into this topic, check out LuckyHYP.
This sounds like a fantastic program. Helping researchers understand entrepreneurship and connect their ideas with real industry needs is such an important step toward creating meaningful innovations. I really like that the event also encouraged collaboration and networking between participants. Thanks for sharing this update! I usually enjoy reading about innovation and technology during my breaks, and recently found minigame which is a fun little way to relax for a few minutes before getting back to work.
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