The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) visited Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) on August 29, 2025, as part of Phase 2 of its project, “Mapping and Assessment of Government-Funded Innovation Infrastructure.”
The visit was conducted to assess SKSU’s government-funded innovation hubs and strengthen the understanding of innovation spaces within the SOCCSKSARGEN Region. The activity supports DEPDev’s research project aimed at evaluating the services of various innovation facilities in the country, ensuring that they remain useful and accessible to innovators and enterprises.
During the site visit, the DEPDev delegation toured SKSU’s flagship centers including the Natural Textile Fiber Innovation Hub (NTFIH-SKSU), the STEP APP Technology Business Incubator, and the Institute of Food Innovation and Nutrition (IFIN) Centers. University officials also engaged in interviews with the team to discuss facility operations, management, and contributions to local innovation and enterprise development.
Findings from this initiative are expected to guide national policies in support of the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028 and the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document (NIASD) 2023-2032, with the goal of fostering a dynamic innovation ecosystem and building a smart and innovative Philippines.
This initiative also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) as it strengthens collaboration between government, academia, and industry to build a more competitive and innovative nation.
