MSUN ATBI Welcomes First Batch of Incubatees and Launches Two-Day Pre-Incubation Training Program

Written by Dante Quiao Suminguit

The Mindanao State University at Naawan Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator (MSUN ATBI) achieved another major milestone as it successfully onboarded its first cohort of incubatees and launched a comprehensive two-day Pre-Incubation Training Program on February 26–27, 2025. A total of eight incubatees, three start-ups, three farmers' associations, and two farmers' cooperatives, officially joined the incubation program, marking a significant step toward strengthening innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable agri-aqua development in Northern Mindanao.

The onboarding ceremony on February 26 opened with a warm welcome from Project Leader Prof. Karem A. Palmes, followed by introductions of guests, participants, and MSUN ATBI staff. Project Technical Specialist III Dante Q. Suminguit presented the rationale of the activity, emphasizing the role of incubation in supporting early-stage enterprises.

Despite pressing commitments, Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa delivered an inspiring message reaffirming MSUN’s dedication to empowering grassroots entrepreneurs. Representatives from the Local Government Units of Naawan, Manticao, and Lugait, Niño Jan O. Magbago, Arnold D. Dapanas, Jr., and Elfe T. Montilla, expressed their unwavering support to the new incubatees, strengthening the link between MSUN ATBI and community partners.

In a heartfelt message, Mr. Temoteo L. Chavez, Chairman of BOAPA, spoke on behalf of the incubatees, highlighting the crucial role of the incubation program in providing technical and business support to agri-aqua enterprises. The event’s highlight was the formal signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), symbolizing the start of a collaborative journey toward business growth, innovation, and community impact. The program concluded with closing remarks from Prof. Gaily Jubie S. Hontiveros, leaving participants encouraged and motivated.

Immediately following the onboarding, MSUN ATBI launched its two-day Pre-Incubation Training, equipping incubatees with foundational knowledge and practical tools essential for early-stage business development. Held at the Extension Division Office Audio-Visual Room, the training featured a series of expert-led modules.

The first day introduced participants to the fundamentals of incubation through Module 1: Foundations of Technology Business Incubation by Dante Q. Suminguit, followed by Module 2: Entrepreneurial Mindset for Start-ups with Prof. Djannez M. Dadole. Modules 3 and 4, "From Ideas to Opportunities and Recognition Building and Testing Solutions", guided incubatees in ideation, opportunity identification, prototyping, and developing Minimum Viable Products (MVPs). Inspirational sharing from incubatees Ms. Carren Joy E. Acut (Triple M Processed Food Production) and Mr. Temoteo L. Chavez (BOAPA) enriched the learning experience.

The second day deepened participants’ understanding of essential business concepts. Module V: Intellectual Property Rights and Protection for Startups led by Prof. Palmes highlighted the importance of safeguarding innovations. Module VI: Business Registration, Compliance, and Risk Management, delivered by Dr. Manolito E. Parungao, equipped incubatees with legal and operational knowledge. In the afternoon, Prof. Hontiveros facilitated Module VII: Mastering Pitching, Presentation Skills, and Startup Storytelling, followed by Module VIII: Exploring the Business Model Canvas and Strategies with Christian Fel S. Batoctoy, offering a practical framework for building sustainable business models.

The training concluded with an awarding ceremony where certificates of completion were presented to all incubatees, marking the successful completion of the two-day Pre-Incubation Program.

With strengthened partnerships, a robust training program, and a shared commitment to innovation, MSUN ATBI is well-positioned to drive entrepreneurship and sustainable agri-aqua growth, advancing local communities in Misamis Oriental and the wider Northern Mindanao region.