IdeaSpace Ventures sees brighter outlook for Philippine startups in 2026

IDEASPACE Ventures, the startup accelerator arm of the MVP Group, said 2026 is shaping up to be a strong year for Philippine startups, as local founders show greater maturity even as competition from foreign firms intensifies.

- By Beatriz Marie D. Cruz

"The future of the Philippine startup scene has never looked brighter, and 2026 is shaping up to be a coming-of-age year," IdeaSpace Executive Director Alwyn Joy E. Rosel said in an emailed reply to questions.

She said local startups have moved beyond copying business models from Silicon Valley and other overseas hubs, with more founders building companies that address domestic needs and contribute to national development.

"Filipino founders have really matured," Ms. Rosel said. "They are not just pitching dreams; they are coming to us with real businesses that already have paying customers or pilot tests with companies."

She added that startup activity is gaining traction outside Metro Manila, with growth seen in cities such as Iloilo, Davao and Cagayan de Oro, reflecting broader access to talent and markets.