Landbank, DOST-TAPI boost support for Filipino innovators

In a joint push to advance innovation and inclusive technological development, LANDBANK and the Department of Science and Technology – Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI) have formalized a renewed partnership to support Filipino inventors and technology developers.

Central to the collaboration is the Innovation and Technology (I-TECH) Lending Program, which provides affordable and accessible financing to help inventors commercialize their patented technologies.

LANDBANK President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz and DOST-TAPI Director Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena formalized the partnership through a memorandum of agreement and implementing rules and regulations signing on July 15, 2025, at Okada Manila.

LANDBANK EVP Ma. Celeste A. Burgos and DOST-TAPI Investment and Business Operations Division Manager Romeo M. Javate witnessed the signing.

“At LANDBANK, we firmly believe that technology is a key driver of inclusive growth that opens doors to a better, more sustainable future for all,” Ortiz said.

“We believe in the potential of every Filipino innovator, and we are here to back that potential every step of the way,” she added.

Under the enhanced I-TECH Lending Program, LANDBANK serves as the primary lending conduit, while DOST-TAPI administers the Invention Guarantee Fund (IGF) to finance the program.

Empowering innovators with accessible financing

The I-TECH Lending Program introduces several enhancements to better serve its target beneficiaries, broadening its reach and impact.

To encourage wider participation, the previous loan ceiling of PHP12.5 million has been removed, allowing eligible borrowers to access up to 85% of the total project cost and up to 80% for land acquisition.

Loan interest charges have also been waived through funding from the IGF, enabling the program to operate as an off-book facility for LANDBANK and lowering the financial burden on borrowers.

These enhancements align with Republic Act No. 7459, or the Inventors and Invention Incentives Act of the Philippines, which aims to empower local innovators through financial and non-financial assistance.

As of June 30, 2025, a total of PHP32.25 million in loans has been released under the I-TECH Lending Program.

Through this enhanced partnership, LANDBANK and DOST-TAPI reaffirm their commitment to empowering Filipino innovators, transforming homegrown ideas into sustainable, high-impact enterprises, and helping build a robust, technology-driven economy.