Guimaras has taken a significant step toward empowering its youth and local businesses with the launch of its first innovation hub under Governor JC Rahman A. Nava’s Kabataan FIRST development program.
The Kabataan FIRST Innovation Hub, located at the GTIC Building in San Miguel, Jordan, offers essential services such as training, coaching, access to business resource information, and business-to-business (B2B) matching.
The hub is envisioned to be a dynamic space where young entrepreneurs, investors, educators, and students can exchange ideas and develop innovative solutions for business and community challenges.
This initiative aims to foster creativity, entrepreneurship, and collaboration among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), youth, and other community members. It is expected to boost economic activities, create jobs, and enhance local businesses’ competitiveness.
Nava emphasized the critical role of youth in shaping the province’s future, noting that over half of Guimaras’ population is aged 29 and below: “This innovation hub is our response to the needs of the youth and small businesses. It provides the necessary tools and knowledge to enhance their skills and expand opportunities for economic growth.”
The hub’s establishment aligns with the province’s Focused Tourism, Trade, Investment, and Employment (Kabataan FIRST) agenda. By nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship, the hub aims to address gaps in education, employment, and business development, ensuring the youth and MSMEs are equipped to compete in a rapidly changing economic landscape.
The innovation hub was realized through partnerships with the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Western Visayas, FyrLab Accelerator, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Western Visayas, and other agencies.
Guimaras Rep. Ma. Lucille L. Nava shared her optimism about the initiative and highlighted the potential for long-term growth in the province: “This hub is not just a physical space but a platform to nurture dreams and turn them into reality for our youth and entrepreneurs.”