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BS Entrep Batch Aquila takes flight; learning companies successfully launched 

by Emily Rose Blandod, CEBA | Sep 14 2024

 

Seven learning companies from the BS Entrepreneurship program of the Department of Business and Innovation, CEBA officially launched their businesses on September 5, 2024, at Robinsons Place Iligan. The launching event, dubbed “Aquila’s Launchpad: The Entrep 113 Batch Aquila Business Launching Event,” is the start of the one-year implementation of the students’ innovative business ideas. The ENT 113 Entrepreneurial Strategy Implementation is the terminal output of the BS Entrepreneurship program, which is strategically designed for students to undergo ideation, business and technical skill development, immersion, product development, market analysis, business planning, pitching, and implementation.

The event brought together valued stakeholders to celebrate innovation and entrepreneurship. In his message of support, ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø-IIT Chancellor, Prof. Alizedney M. Ditucalan, emphasized the crucial role of entrepreneurs and their corresponding ecosystem in creating a sustainable and impactful world. 

The Guest of Honor, Mr. Jio Calledo, owner of Arabigo Coffee Roastery and an alumnus of the Department, shared how the business implementation experience during his college days, opened his interest to pursue entrepreneurship. He inspired the students to enjoy their entrepreneurial journey, overcome the business challenges, and to enjoy the experience. The event was also graced by the presence of Prof. Pamela F. Resurreccion, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Dir. Jane Marie L. Tabucan, DTI Lanao del Norte Provincial Director, Ms. Dorina Marie E. Ytang, DOST PSTO Lanao del Norte Senior Science Research Specialist.

The launchpad also featured two important milestones in the students’ entrepreneurial journey. The ceremonial MOA signing with the Alumni Angel Investors and the learning companies cemented the crucial role of the alumni as part of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in nurturing entrepreneurship. The generous alumni include Ms. Dorina Marie E. Ytang, Ms. Marilou Bado, Ms. Kate Andrea Cawaling, and Mr. Sean Preil Dela Cruz. Second, the event also highlighted the Oath of an IITIAN Business Leader, vowing to stay true to the values of ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø-IIT and to be pillars of good governance, humanistic management, ethics, and sustainability. This moment was a testament to the university’s dedication to raising new breeds of forward-thinking leaders who will drive change in the future. 

The learning companies offer various innovative and creative products designed to address market needs. Beaute specializes in bags and accessories using jute fabrics, Glamoura offers duo glam stick, specifically clay blush and hair wax in a dual-ended form, Hoolay provides menthol balm products crafted to soothe the senses and provide lasting comfort., Laysho promotes sustainable fashion by offering an upcycled clothing selection to cater to feminine style and expression, Lumina levels up a unique gift-giving experience by producing trinkets and souvenirs made from resin, Redenim transforms secondhand denim jeans into bags and accessories dedicated to providing convenience and sustainability while Velle features their solid perfume balm formulation through their ‘Fragrance sticks’ that provides lasting scent and precise application. Each of these learning companies brings a fresh perspective to their markets while adding value to society and the environment. 

Aquila’s Launchpad demonstrates that the future of entrepreneurship is bright. Batch Aquila is now soaring with boundless possibilities ahead. This event was made possible through the partnership of the Department of Business and Innovation and Robinsons Place Iligan, Negosyo Center at ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø-IIT, Start Up Podcast PH, and Arabigo Coffee Roastery.  

[Photos by Raymond Lagrada]

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