Kalinga State University has been awarded a prestigious grant from the National Innovation Council’s 2024 Innovation Grants, marking a significant win for local food entrepreneurs and demonstrating a commitment to sustainable development. Under the leadership of President Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor, the university’s proposal, “Capacitating KSU’s Knowledge, Technology, and Innovation Hub: A One-Stop Support Facility for Empowering Food Enterprises in Kalinga,” has been selected as one of 13 transformative projects nationwide.
This initiative born out of the strong partnership between the Kalinga State University and Department of Science and Technology, aims to revolutionize the local food industry by transforming KSU’s existing Knowledge, Technology, and Innovation Hub into a comprehensive support center for Food Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Kalinga. This “one-stop” facility will provide crucial resources, including state-of-the-art equipment, expert technical guidance, business development services, and access to a strong network of partner institutions.
KSU faculty Proponents and researchers Ms, Melanie Manuel, the Director for Central Science Laboratory and Mr. Eric Paloy, Director for Technology and Innovation with collaborative support from Department of Science and Technology Provincial Director Ms. Jasmin Lee Donaal and Engr Karl Ian Martinez, SRS conceptualized the project to foster “Filipinnovation” and drive economic growth in the region. The team, which also includes Ms. Marie Antoinette Clemente and Ms. Vee Larisse Bali, conducted thorough benchmarking at Cagayan State University to ensure the hub’s effectiveness.
A key aspect of this initiative is the translation of academic research into practical business ventures. The hub will empower KSU faculty and students to develop viable and competitive spin-off businesses based on their research findings. This effort is a timely response to the recommendations of a study by Dr. Karen Razelle M. Duyan’s study, “Creating A Launchpad for Innovation: A Study on The Potential Impact Of An Incubation Center At Kalinga State University.” Her research highlighted strong entrepreneurial aspirations within the KSU community, while also identifying key challenges such as funding constraints, limited business expertise, and inadequate industry mentorship. The newly funded hub will directly address these obstacles by providing essential resources, expert mentorship, and vital industry connections.
This grant underscores KSU’s commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering innovation, aligning with the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document 2023-2032. Furthermore, this project is deeply aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including: SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by enhancing food production and distribution, SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by fostering entrepreneurship and job creation, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by strengthening local industry through technology transfer, SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by promoting sustainable practices, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering collaboration between stakeholders. By aligning with these SDGs, KSU’s Innovation Hub project demonstrates a commitment to sustainable development and contributes to building a more resilient and prosperous future of Kalinga.
The project, driven by the innovative spirit of its faculty, is poised to make a significant impact on the Kalinga food industry, driving sustainable economic development and empowering local entrepreneurs.
