What is StartUp QC?

StartUp QC is an initiative by the Quezon City Government designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship by supporting early startups and recognizing sustainable student business plan through the program.

Established under Quezon City’s Ordinance SP-3109, S-2022, StartUp QC is the first and largest LGU-led startup program in the Philippines. The program is composed of two (2) categories: the Professional Category and the Student Category.

The StartUp QC Professional Category is designed for early-stage and MVP-stage startups, as well as entrepreneurs aiming to scale their businesses. The program offers resources, expert mentorship, and funding opportunities to support the growth and success of participating startups.

The StartUp QC Student Competition aims to foster entrepreneurial spirit among students by encouraging them to develop and pitch innovative business ideas. This initiative provides valuable learning experiences, networking opportunities, and the potential for funding for standout ideas, inspiring and equipping the next generation of business leaders.

Who is eligible to apply?

StartUp QC Professional Category eligibility criteria:

Must have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
Must be at least 21 years of age.
At least one (1) team member must be a resident of Quezon City.
Must have no prior convictions.
Must not have any relatives on the screening committee.
Must not duplicate any ongoing projects or programs of the Quezon City Government.

StartUp QC Student Competition eligibility criteria:

Must be enrolled in any university or college in the Philippines at the time of application.
Individuals or teams are welcome to apply.
At least one member must be a resident of Quezon City.
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
No relatives of applicants should be part of the program committee.
Teams must present a viable business plan.
Projects or programs proposed must not duplicate ongoing initiatives of the Quezon City Government.

What are the benefits of participating in StartUp QC?

StartUp QC Professional Category

Mentorship from industry experts.
Equity-free funding opportunities of up to Php 1 million.
Networking with other startups and investors.
Support from the Quezon City Government, (do we mean including green lanes and incentives?)

StartUp QC Student Competition:

Mentorship from industry experts.
Cash prizes up to Php 100,000 for business development.
Networking opportunities with investors and fellow aspiring entrepreneurs.
The chance to represent your university or campus.
Support and resources from the Quezon City Government.

How can I apply?

Interested applicants can apply by completing the e-application form at QC E-Services, along with submitting the required documents:

QC ID or any valid government ID showing a Quezon City address and birthdate (for at least 1 member)
A video pitch of up to 5 minutes.
A business proposal of up to 10 pages.
Proof of enrollment, acceptance, or registration (for the student category).

What are Considered Startups? (PROFESSIONAL CATEGORY)

A startup business is defined as: “any person or entity in the Philippines which aims to refine an innovative product, process, or business model” and may fall into one or a combination of the following categories, as prescribed under R.A. No. 11337 otherwise known as the “Innovative Startup Act”:

Innovative Product – a good or service that is new or significantly improved in terms of technical specifications, component materials, software, user-friendliness, or other functional characteristics.
Innovative Process – a new or significantly improved production or delivery method through changes in techniques, equipment, and/ or software; and
Innovative Business Model – a new organizational method in business practices, workplace organization, or external relations.