Emerging from a pool of 67 entries across the region, Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship students from the University of Northern Philippines (UNP) clinched the 2nd runner-up spot in the INNOVATHON: Region 1 Startup Sprint held on May 9, 2025, at Lorma Colleges, San Fernando City, La Union.
The competition, spearheaded by the Wadhwani Foundation in partnership with Northwestern University and Lorma Colleges, featured a wide range of technology-based innovations from participating teams. Amidst the dominance of tech-centered startups, the UNP team’s food-based innovation stood out, Tofu Banana Dumplings, a creative, nutritious, and sustainable product that impressed the panel of judges with its market potential and uniqueness.
The research was presented by Kharl Patrick Partosan, Lovely Zen Balano, Jessica Bayani, Carla Kate Duque, and Rica Mae Escobar, under the mentorship of Ms. Karen Calaycay and Dr. Richel Royce Chan. Despite competing in a field largely focused on digital and tech solutions, their product’s originality, cultural relevance, and commercial viability proved to be a winning combination.
This recognition accentuates UNP’s commitment in cultivating entrepreneurial minds capable of producing impactful innovations, even outside the realm of technology, by harnessing local ingredients and responding to evolving consumer demands.
Article by Emman Trevor Quilala
