Manila, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Security Bank Corporation have stepped up collaborative efforts to help Philippine startups grow, scale and access regional markets, signaling stronger public‑private backing for innovation‑driven businesses.

New Partnership to Expand Startup Access

DTI has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Security Bank, Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri), Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) Bank and affiliated innovation partners to boost startup support and international expansion. The alliance aims to connect Filipino founders with corporate partners, investors and cross‑border opportunities.

Under the agreement:

• Philippine startups will gain access to business‑matching and exchange programs, facilitating connections with major corporates and capital sources.

• Startups can participate in regional trade missions and flagship events, such as the Japan‑ASEAN Startup Business Matching Fair, increasing their exposure in ASEAN and Asian innovation hubs.

• The framework supports pilots, partnerships and potential investments, helping startups advance from early development to commercial viability.

DTI’s role is to align these private sector efforts with national priorities — expanding market access, strengthening innovation ecosystems, and cultivating competitive startup growth.

Bridging Finance and Startup Needs

Security Bank brings its corporate network and financing expertise to the table, helping emerging companies secure partnership opportunities and capital, while MUFG and Krungsri extend regional connectivity and business‑matching support.

This collaboration builds on broader DTI startup initiatives — including acceleration programs, financing forums linking startups with lenders, and innovation hubs — all designed to reduce barriers to capital, talent and market entry for new ventures.

Driving Innovation‑Led Growth

By aligning government programs with financial institutions and global networks, policymakers hope to boost the competitiveness of Filipino startups and position them for success both locally and internationally. Observers see these partnerships as a key part of efforts to grow the Philippines’ startup ecosystem into a significant contributor to economic development and job creation.