Canadian organizations partnered with local stakeholders in Manila for a week of entrepreneurship activities, highlighting growing collaboration between APF Canada and Kickstart Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of a leading Southeast Asian telecom company. The events aimed to connect Philippine startups with international investors and partners while promoting sustainable business solutions.
The program is part of APF Canada’s 2019–2026 Women’s Business Mission to Asia, which showcases women entrepreneurs driving innovation in food and energy security, infrastructure, and the digital economy. Key activities included discussions at Ateneo de Manila University, a Women in Business Breakfast, and networking events hosted by the Canadian Embassy, providing platforms for women founders, operators, and investors to share ideas and form partnerships.
Support for women-led entrepreneurship was a central theme. “When women entrepreneurs are supported, entire communities benefit,” said Minette Navarrete of Kickstart Ventures. The collaboration strengthens Canada-Philippines business ties, helps local startups gain international exposure, and highlights the role of inclusive innovation in building resilient, future-ready economies.
