The highly anticipated Geeks On A Beach (GOAB) conference is ready to make a splash from November 22-24, 2023, in Panglao, Bohol. Aiming to foster partnerships and innovation in startups, tech, and design, GOAB is a pivotal event for collaboration in the Philippines and beyond.
Organized by GeeksPH and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), this year’s theme, “Igniting Innovation and Collaboration,” is a testament to GOAB’s commitment to nurturing the Philippine startup ecosystem. The conference begins on November 23 with a keynote by DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy, focusing on the Philippine Startup Development Program and a panel discussing the decade-long evolution of the Philippine startup ecosystem.
Highlights include a Founders’ Panel with influential figures like Roland Ros (Kumu), ER Rollan (GrowSari), Angeline Tham (Angkas), and Steve Sy (Great Deals E-Commerce). Franco Varona of Foxmont Capital will present the Philippine Venture Capital Report 2023, exploring the dynamic startup scene and the role of new investors.
An Investors Panel featuring prominent names like Paulo Campos (Kaya Founders) and Martin Cu (500 Global), and a Fireside Chat on the Innovative Startup Act (ISA) are also scheduled. Jack Madrid (ITBAP) will discuss the impact of the BPO workforce on startups, and a panel on AI’s influence in tech startups will follow.
The second day starts with a keynote by Atty Jocelle Batapa-Sigue (DICT) on the Digital Startup Development and Acceleration Program, and includes the launch of the Philippine Startup Ecosystem Report: Founder’s Edition by Jason Gaisano. Discussions will cover diverse topics, from startups going public to the role of venture capital firms.
Notably, Jeremy Au (Monk’s Hill Ventures) will present the “$10M Fundraising Playbook,” and Chris McCann (Race Capital) will engage in a chat on AI and Large Language Models, offering insights from Silicon Valley.
Additionally, the conference will host a “Lightning Pitch” session for startups under DICT’s Startup Program and multiple breakout sessions. This marks the 10th anniversary of GOAB, highlighting its role in the growth of the Philippine startup community.
GOAB 6, organized by GeeksPH and DICT, is supported by various local government units, strategic, key, and supporting partners, including Plug and Play Tech Center, GCash, and Kickstart Ventures. Media partners include Philstar Global and NewsbytesPH, among others. This event is a unique opportunity for startups, investors, and tech enthusiasts to join forces and shape the future of the Philippine startup scene.