Biliran Province State University, in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Eastern Visayas, officially launched Biliran’s first Technology Business Incubator (TBI), known as TBI-HABI, on October 14, during the University’s 17th Universityhood Celebration.

TBI-HABI, which stands for Harnessing Advanced Breakthrough Innovation, was established through DOST’s Smart and Sustainable Communities Program (SSCP), with funding support from the department. The incubator aims to help researchers, students, startups, and aspiring entrepreneurs develop innovative ideas into marketable products, services, and business ventures.

DOST Eastern Visayas Regional Director Dr. John Glenn D. Ocaña delivered the keynote address, where he emphasized the role of science, technology, and innovation in addressing community needs, creating economic opportunities, and supporting sustainable development.

TBI-HABI will serve as a center for business incubation, research and development, mentoring, and industry collaboration. Among the services it will offer are startup mentoring, technology validation, intellectual property assistance, market linkages, financing referrals, and commercialization support.

Through these services, the incubator will assist innovators in assessing their technologies, developing business models, identifying potential markets, and preparing their products and services for commercialization.

The project is headed by Mr. Glenn Gumba, director of the Office of Institutional Innovation and Technology Development (OIITD), with support from University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. The initiative is part of the University’s efforts to strengthen research commercialization and provide more opportunities for students, faculty researchers, and local entrepreneurs to pursue technology-based enterprises.

The name HABI, taken from the Filipino word meaning “weave,” represents the integration of research, technology, mentorship, and local talent in developing innovations that respond to the needs of communities in Biliran.

As part of the preparations for the incubator’s full operations, BiPSU and DOST will conduct capability development activities for its manager and personnel, particularly in startup development and incubation management.

With the establishment of TBI-HABI, BiPSU and DOST aim to expand opportunities for research commercialization, support the development of local startups, and encourage technology-based entrepreneurship in the province.

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