In a bold move to strengthen the startup landscape in Region VI, the Unified Movement in Western Visayas to Accelerate Startup and Spinoff Development or UMWAD was created to improve the startup ecosystem in the region. 

The initiative involves the establishment of Regional Innovation Spaces, one of which is located in the province of Capiz and a Startup Online Portal. With the support of DOST VI as the funding agency, UMWAD partnered with state universities, DOST Provincial S&T Offices (PSTOs) and Local Government Units to host the innovation spaces that will serve as centers for entrepreneurial growth and innovation.

The recent highlights are the launching of Capiz Startup Innovation Hub and signing of the Memorandum of Agreement with the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISATU), Capiz State University (CAPSU), Capiz Provincial Government (CPG), and Roxas City Government (RCG). The hub is poised to become a dynamic platform for students, professionals, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), and Micro, Small, and Medium enterprises (MSMEs) to foster creativity, collaborate, and create innovative products and services. 

Following the momentous event, an activity entitled, Fireside Chats: Bridging Startups with Support Agencies in Capiz was conducted. This activity aimed to forge a strong connection between startups in the Agri-Aqua technology sector and agencies that hold pivotal roles in providing support, resources, and guidance in their ventures. The invited agencies are from the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office – Capiz (LEDIPO Capiz), Capiz Provincial Small Medium Enterprises Development Council (PSMED), Sorosoro Ibaba Development Cooperative (SIDC). The goal is to provide opportunities for networking, support, and growth within the local startup ecosystem in Capiz. (Capiz PSTO)