How to Apply for Assistance via the DOST-TAPI HIRANG 2.0 Program

The Honing Innovations, Research, Agreements and Negotiations of the Government-Funded Technologies (HIRANG) 2.0 Program, led by the Department of Science and Technology – Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI), is designed to assist startups and spin-off companies that use DOST-funded technologies. This initiative supports these ventures through consultancy services, capacity building, and financial assistance to improve their investment readiness. The program addresses the lack of investor-ready enterprises by helping these businesses refine their models, develop IP strategies, and prepare for engagement with investors.

Through the training, consultancy, mentoring, and potential funding activities offered under this program, HIRANG 2.0 can serve as a stepping stone for those seeking to bring DOST-generated innovations into the market. The structured support system it offers is specifically targeted to help technology-based startups and spin-offs become more prepared for investment opportunities. To learn more, keep reading this guide.  

Program Overview

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Photo credit: DOST-TAPI

HIRANG 2.0 was born from the legal mandates of Executive Order No. 128, s. 1987 and Republic Act No. 7459, which emphasize support for Filipino inventors and commercialization of homegrown technologies. The program was designed to offer a series of structured interventions aimed at enhancing the business and investment appeal of the following DOST-developed technologies: 

  • Investment and Business Development Seminars: Provide startups with insights on financing, investment awareness, and business planning.
  • Investment Readiness Level (IRL) Assessment: Evaluates the startup’s preparedness for investment.
  • Consultancy Services: Offers IP audits and business model analysis to develop IP portfolios and value propositions.
  • Mentoring: Offers guidance on business strategy, competition, market analysis, and financial planning.
  • Business Portfolio Presentation and Review: Trains participants on effectively pitching to investors.
  • Investment Networking: Connects participants with potential investors.
  • Negotiations and Licensing: Facilitates licensing discussions with investors.

The program typically runs over three to four months depending on the complexity of each participant’s needs.

Objectives of the Program

Its goals include:

  • Helping startups and MSMEs identify and solve commercialization challenges.
  • Improving investment readiness levels of DOST-linked startups and spin-offs.
  • Promoting gender equality in access and participation.
  • Preparing participants for other DOST-TAPI funding opportunities.
  • Establishing investor linkages and licensing partnerships.

Coverage of Assistance

The assistance offered under the program includes:

  • Fees for consultancy services and expert training.
  • May also include up to PHP 250,000 in funding for prototype/sample production for DOST-RDI technologies.

Who Can Apply?

The HIRANG 2.0 Program is open to specific groups engaged in commercializing DOST-funded technologies, such as:

  • Spin-off companies of DOST-generated, -funded, and -assisted technologies
  • Technology generators, researchers, research teams, or technology transfer officers from any DOST RDI interested in forming spin-off companies

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following:

  • Must be a Filipino-owned startup where the technology generator or researcher is directly involved in the business operations or serves as a consultant
  • Or must be a spin-off company officially linked to a DOST Research and Development Institute (RDI)
  • Must be a registered Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, or Corporation with at least 60% Filipino ownership

Step-by-Step Application Process

To apply, here are the steps you need to follow: 

Step 1. Prepare the Following Documents:

Step 2. Submit Documents to DOST-TAPI Records Section.

  • The submission is reviewed by the Office of the Director and the IBOD Division Manager.
  • If complete, the application will proceed for evaluation. Incomplete submissions are returned with feedback.

Step 3. Evaluation Phase

  • The program manager evaluates the proposal.
  • A letter of approval or disapproval is sent within a few days.

Step 4. Once Approved:

  • Submit the notarized Conforme Letter and Affidavit of Undertaking.
  • You’ll be notified of the schedule for seminars and consultancy activities.

Step 5. Program Activities and Completion:

  • Participate in training, mentoring, and seminars.
  • Submit program outputs (business model, IP portfolio, etc.).
  • Evaluation of completion will be conducted.
  • Upon approval, you may be invited to a graduation ceremony.

How to Apply for Financial Assistance After Completing the Program

Once the consultancy and training phase is completed, completers may also apply for financial assistance by following these steps:

Eligibility

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Have completed the consultancy and training phase.

Required Documents

Interested parties also need to prepare the following additional requirements:

  • Output from the HIRANG 2.0 consultancy and capacity-building phase.
  • Formal request for financial assistance.
  • Copy of business registration (DTI or SEC).

Procedures

Once the requirements are ready, simply follow these steps to avail of the financial assistance under the HIRANG 2.0 Program:

Step 1. Submit completed outputs and request letters.

Step 2. The HIRANG 2.0 Program Manager will evaluate and prepare a technical report.

Step 3. TAPI-Executive Committee (EXECOM) will deliberate and approve or disapprove funding.

Step 4. If approved, you’ll be invited for a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) orientation and signing.

Step 5. Fund release will follow through either check or LDDAP-ADA depending on preference.

Timelines and Duration

To set your expectations, take note that the application process for this program may take as much time as follows: 

  • Document submission to approval: 6–10 working days
  • Program implementation: 29 working days
  • Financial assistance processing (post-training): up to 22 working days for LDDAP-ADA

Important Reminders

Applicants of the program should keep the following in mind to improve their chances of successful enrollment and support:

  • Ensure that all required documents are complete and properly formatted before submission to avoid delays.
  • Coordinate closely with your endorsing RDI for a properly prepared Endorsement Letter.
  • Familiarize yourself with the investment readiness criteria as these are key to program assessment.
  • Actively participate in all seminars, mentoring sessions, and consultancy activities as completion is required for funding eligibility.
  • Maintain clear communication with the HIRANG 2.0 Program Manager for updates, deadlines, and output submissions.
  • Be prepared to pitch your business model and investment portfolio clearly and professionally during the final phases of the program.
  • Submit quality and complete outputs to avoid disqualification or delays in receiving assistance.

Video: DOST-TAPI Roadmap Launch and Stakeholders’ Recognition

To learn more about the DOST-TAPI and its programs, goals, objectives and check out this video below:

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Contact and Follow-up

For more information and program updates, always check:

You may also reach out to the DOST-TAPI via the following: 

DOST-TAPI Public Assistance Office

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