Success in the food and agriculture sector is built on more than just capital; it is built on proven expertise. Kitzsteinhorn Food Production, a premier agri-eco-tourism destination in Alaguisoc, Jordan, Guimaras, has solidified its role as a catalyst of sustainable agriculture by serving as a mentor site for the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) entrepreneurship initiatives.

Under the DOST’s Technology-Based Entrepreneurship Advisor (TBEA) framework, reputable industry leaders are tapped to guide new startups. Ms. Rosario E. Griesser, the owner of Kitzsteinhorn, now serves as a TBEA, sharing her extensive expertise in organic farming and Japanese agricultural techniques to help returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) build resilient and technology-driven enterprises. This appointment recognizes Kitzsteinhorn’s reputation as a premier destination for natural farming renowned for its famous Guimaras mangoes, diverse vegetable production, and steadfast commitment to vermicomposting and organic practices.

The farm recently hosted a mentorship and benchmarking session for Ms. Salvacion A. Malabanan, a former OFW from Hong Kong now based in Botbot, Pandan, Antique. As an applicant of DOST’s Innovations for Filipinos Working Distantly from the Philippines (iFWD PH) Program and is currently in the process of applying for Core Business Development Session and eventually for the iFWD PH Innovation-Enabling Fund (iFund) to kickstart her poultry operations, Ms. Malabanan is transitioning from vegetable farming to organic poultry production to a fully sustainable farming system.

During the mentorship session, Ms. Griesser shared a realistic and strategic perspective on navigating the complexities of organic farming and business management from her years of experience. Ms. Griesser also provided hands-on advising in areas such as product improvement, logistics, and sustainable process integration.

For MSMEs and startups, the involvement of DOST-certified advisors like Ms. Griesser provides a layer of security. The iFWD PH Program ensures that beneficiaries are not only equipped with the innovation fund but are also backed by the “practical wisdom” of established entrepreneurs.

DOST and Kitzsteinhorn are bridging the gap between global experience and local innovation. This partnership ensures that Western Visayas’ new generation of agri-entrepreneurs is not just starting a business but also building a sustainable legacy. (RLUbamos/TTCS; Photos by: MLSQuidato/TTCS, MASASalazar/PSTOGuimaras)

_{The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is the country’s premiere agency for science, technology, and innovation, providing direction and leadership in the Philippines. Through strategic policies and programs, DOST ensures that S&T drives national development—delivering solutions and opportunities that maximize economic and social benefits for every Filipino.}