The DOST-TAPI Travel Assistance to Inventors Program is a government-funded initiative designed to provide financial support to Filipino inventors who have won Presidential Awards for Inventions. This assistance enables qualified inventors to participate in prestigious international invention-related events and expos, helping them bring global attention to their innovations. Backed by Republic Act No. 7459, this program recognizes the value of advancing the work of Filipino inventors and offers travel-related aid so they can showcase their winning innovations on a global platform.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know — from eligibility and requirements to the step-by-step application process — to make it easier for you to avail of the benefits of the program.
Program Overview
This program provides travel funding for male and female Filipino inventors who have won the Presidential Awards for Inventions (as defined under Article II, Section 4 of R.A. No. 7459). The financial support enables them to join recognized international invention expositions where their innovations or fields of interest are further developed.
The program also promotes gender responsiveness and equal opportunities, ensuring that both men and women awardees are given the same chance to represent the Philippines on the global stage.
Objectives
Some of the objectives that the program hopes to achieve include:
- Supporting the international participation of recognized inventors.
- Promoting award-winning Filipino innovations globally.
- Strengthening the presence of Filipino inventors in international expos.
- Providing equitable access to opportunities regardless of gender.
- Encouraging sustainable development through innovation.
What the Travel Assistance Covers
If your application is approved, DOST-TAPI will cover:
- Round-trip economy airfare
- Daily Subsistence Allowance (DSA) based on UNDP rates
- Travel of one official inventor representative per winning invention
- A TAPI coordinator may be assigned to oversee groups traveling together
Note: The international event must be deemed prestigious by TAPI and be recognized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
Benefits for Successful Applicants
Here’s a list of the best reasons why it is a good idea to apply for this program, beyond just the coverage of airfare and allowances:
- International exposure for your invention: Present your innovation to a global audience, increasing the chances of catching the interest of potential investors, partners, or licensees abroad.
- Real-time feedback from global experts: Receive valuable input and insights directly from international judges, inventors, and tech professionals that can help improve your invention or guide your next move.
- Networking opportunities: Connect with fellow inventors, entrepreneurs, tech incubators, and innovation agencies from other countries who may open doors for collaborations.
- Boosted credibility and recognition: Being part of a Philippine delegation and backed by DOST-TAPI enhances your reputation as an inventor with a government-recognized award-winning product.
- Stronger invention portfolio: Participation in international events adds weight to your resume and innovation history — a plus for future funding or patent applications.
- Chance to scout the global market: See how your invention stacks up internationally and explore trends, market needs, or possible product adaptations for foreign audiences.
- Media and PR mileage: You may be featured in Philippine and international media, helping build brand awareness for your invention or startup.
- Supportive travel logistics: You won’t be alone — TAPI may assign a travel coordinator to assist the delegation, making travel and participation smoother.
- Personal growth and cultural exchange: Experience new cultures, develop confidence, and gain insights that can inspire your next invention or business direction.
- Potential follow-up support: A successful international showing could strengthen your case when applying for other DOST-TAPI programs like commercialization, patent assistance, or prototyping.
Who Can Apply?
Only inventors who have won in the National Invention Contest organized by DOST-TAPI are also eligible. Additional conditions include:
- Must be a Filipino citizen in good health with no conviction for crimes involving moral turpitude
- Travel must occur within two (2) years of winning
- You must not have previously availed of DOST-TAPI travel assistance for the same winning invention
- Only one inventor per winning invention may apply
- The invention must not be funded by a government project
- Assistance is non-transferable
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following:
- Request/application letter addressed to DOST-TAPI
- Official invitation or confirmation from the international event organizer
- Complete event information or brochure
- Three (3) airfare quotations from airlines or travel agencies
- Copy of Letters Patent or Registration Certificate
- Documents proving the event is prestigious and beneficial to the Philippines
- Completed Data Privacy Consent Form (Annex C)
How to Apply for DOST-TAPI Travel Assistance
To apply, simply follow the steps listed below:
Step 1: Submit Application
- Address your application letter to the Director of TAPI or the Screening Committee Chairperson
- Submit all required documents to the TAPI Records Section
- Submit at least four (4) months before your intended travel date
Step 2: Initial Processing by TAPI
- TAPI will forward your application to the Office of the Director within 1 working day
- It is then forwarded to the SC Secretariat Officer (SSO) within 2 working days
Step 3: Document Verification
- If Incomplete: You’ll receive a notification within 1 working day. You must submit the missing documents within 30 calendar days
- No response after 30 days = application dropped
- If Complete: You’ll be informed that your application is under evaluation
Note: If you’re not listed as a winner in the National Invention Contest, your application will be denied and you’ll be notified within 1 working day.
Step 4: Screening Committee Review
- SSO submits your application to the Screening Committee (SC) within 2 working days
- The SC will deliberate and issue a resolution within 18 working days
Step 5: Executive Approval
- Once the SC makes a recommendation, the SSO prepares an Executive Summary for the TAPI Executive Committee (Execom)
- The TAPI Execom will issue its final decision within 10 working days
Step 6: Notification of Result
- If Disapproved: You’ll receive a written notification within 3 working days
- If Approved: You’ll be notified within 3 working days and be asked to coordinate with the SSO for:
- Signing the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)
- Processing the travel arrangements
Step 7: Disbursement of Funds
Once approved, TAPI will release the funds to you through a bank request signed by the TAPI Director.
Post-Travel Requirements
You must submit the following to TAPI within one (1) month after returning:
- Travel Report
- Used tickets and boarding passes
- Event participation photos
- Certificate of Participation
Note: Failure to submit these documents may result in loss of eligibility for future TAPI assistance (except for IP assistance).
Where to Send Your Application
Submit your completed application and requirements to:
Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI) Records Section
- Department of Science and Technology, DOST Compound, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City, Philippines
- Visit: https://www.tapi.dost.gov.ph
- Forms: https://www.tapi.dost.gov.ph/forms
Important Reminders
To ensure success in your application, here are some things you might want to keep in mind
- Double-check that your event is internationally recognized and approved by WIPO.
- Prepare your airfare quotations early for budget accuracy.
- Only submit original or authenticated documents.
- Always meet the 4-month lead time
- Avoid last-minute submissions
Video: DOST-TAPI Showcases Filipino Inventions Abroad
By supporting award-winning inventors, the DOST-TAPI Travel Assistance to Inventors Program helps bring Filipino ingenuity to the world stage. If you’ve won in the National Invention Contest, this is an opportunity for you to share your invention with the world while receiving full support for your travel. If you still need more information about how DOST-TAPI helps Filipino investors, you may also check out this video below:
Got questions?
You may reach out to DOST-TAPI via the following:
DOST-TAPI Public Assistance Office
- Website: http://www.tapi.dost.gov.ph/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOST.TAPI
- Email: info@tapi.dost.gov.ph
- Phone: (02) 8582-1450 local 2171