Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), an active implementer of Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubators (ATBIs) under the DOST–PCAARRD National TBI Network, has strengthened its commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology commercialization after securing a ₱5-million grant from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST–PCAARRD).

The grant was awarded during the 32nd CHED Founding Anniversary Ceremony held on June 10, 2026, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Manila, where SUCs implementing Technology Business Incubation programs nationwide gathered to mark milestones in higher education innovation. WMSU was represented by Dr. Ma. Blancaflor R. Jimeno on behalf of the University Administration under the leadership of President Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena.

The project was made possible through a proposal prepared by Asst. Prof. Ivy Juanillo Santos of the Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department, with support from the Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement (RAISE) team and the WMSU Technology Business Incubation technical staff. The initiative reflects the University’s strong collaboration, innovation culture, and commitment to securing competitive national research funding.

The grant will fund the Student-Based Innovation and Technology Business Incubation (SIBOL) Program for School Year 2026–2027. The program aims to support student innovators by transforming research-based ideas with commercial potential into sustainable enterprises through incubation, mentoring, and capacity-building activities.

Beyond funding support, the SIBOL Program is expected to strengthen innovation ecosystems in SUCs by enhancing entrepreneurship, promoting technology commercialization, and fostering stronger linkages between academia, industry, and communities for inclusive regional development.

WMSU also acknowledged the contributions of its project team and technical staff, whose efforts were instrumental in the development and submission of the proposal, reflecting the University’s continued commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence.