Manila-based instant payment infrastructure provider Higala has successfully expanded its seed funding round to US$4 million, surpassing its initial US$2.8 million target amid strong investor interest. Backers include Talino Venture Studios, Chemonics International, Kadan Capital, and 1982 Ventures.
The additional capital will accelerate the rollout of SynerFi, the startup’s digital banking-as-a-service platform aimed at transforming rural banking. “Fresh funds from our investors will help power SynerFi and enable more financial institutions to grow and participate in the digital economy,” said Winston Damarillo, Higala CEO.
Chemonics CEO Jamey Butcher emphasized the strategic value of the raise, noting, “Investor demand drove us to extend the round, reflecting strong confidence in Higala’s mission and product.”
SynerFi is already modernizing eight rural banks across the Philippines, bringing first-time mobile banking access to underserved communities. The platform integrates these institutions into the InstaPay ecosystem, aligning with broader efforts to promote financial inclusion.
Lito Villanueva, EVP at RCBC, lauded the initiative as a key step toward “accelerating financial access in rural areas” and supporting the government’s sustainability and inclusion agenda.
