AquaBiz School – Technology Business Incubation Program (Philippines)

The program focuses on several key areas, including technology incubation and expert mentoring, business development and enterprise support, provision of startup inputs in line with program guidelines, access to NFRDI research facilities and technical experts, market linkage and commercialization guidance, and capacity-building programs with hands-on training. By integrating these components, the program ensures that participants are fully supported in developing sustainable and commercially viable aquaculture operations.

Eligible applicants include members or leaders of fisherfolk organizations or cooperatives, community-based enterprises (MSMEs), and academic or research institutions. All applicants must be Filipino citizens aged 18 or older and actively engaged in aquaculture or fisheries-related activities. Preference is given to those demonstrating leadership or organizational involvement, as well as a willingness and commitment to participate in technology adoption, capacity-building, training, and incubation activities.

Participants must have access to an appropriate farm site, production area, or facility where the selected NFRDI Package of Technology (POT) can be implemented, monitored, and evaluated. They are also required to grant NFRDI access to the project site for the purposes of mentoring, monitoring, training, documentation, and demonstration throughout the incubation period. This ensures that technology adoption and enterprise development are closely supervised and tailored to local needs.

The program’s ultimate goal is to strengthen aquaculture enterprises nationwide, creating sustainable businesses while improving productivity, efficiency, and technical knowledge in the sector. By supporting these aquapreneurs, NFRDI seeks to foster a vibrant aquaculture industry that benefits local communities, improves livelihoods, and contributes to national food security.

For more information, visit DA-NFRDI.