AGRO-DIGITAL PH is a start-up based in Batangas. Using both high tech solutions, it created a digital enterprise for small farmers. By consolidating groups of farmers in a platform that consolidates their assets and capabilities via a portal that enables both a sustainable business and strengthen food security, which it proved during this pandemic.
Agro-DigitalPH’s innovative solution is this year’s big winner in 2021 Shell LiveWIRE, a global flagship program of Shell that promotes local entrepreneurship and develops local economies it bagged the grand prize of P500,000.
“Due to the unprecedented crisis brought by a global pandemic, startup jobs are also considered to be more future-proof as the economy gradually transitions to digital services. Thus, people working on these jobs will potentially have more in-demand skills, moving forward to post-pandemic future,” Ramon Lopez, Department of Trade and Industry Secretary who was guest of honor at the virtual awarding ceremony.
Henry James Sison, founder of grand prize winner said Agro-DigitalPH, aims to create a trust-based digital food value chain, assisting farmers and fishermen in establishing online presence through cooperatives and associations. Together, these sectors can develop a digital food system that puts a premium on trust and transparency. Combined these factors create a digital ecosystem for farmers and agricultural cooperatives to possibly increase the amount of their produce.
As an example, Agro-DigitalPH’s Commerce Portal provides farmers direct access to the market while affording consumers, both institutional and retail, an opportunity to peruse through farmers’ produce. Aggregation allows cooperatives and small farmer organizations to project capability to sustainably produce at scale based on consolidated actuals and forecasted demand.
“We see the undeniable synergies of bringing Pilipinas Shell’s farming and fishing communities into Agro-Digital. Establishing this realizes an authentic seed-to-fork system that can be piloted and perfected within the confines of Pilipinas Shell and eventually replicated in the market at large,” Sison said as he explained his vision saying that capturing demand is the aim of his company.
“Shell LiveWIRE enhances the entrepreneurial skills of local startups and showcases solutions that offer innovation and job creation for our fellow Filipinos. It helps local technology and community enterprises remain competitive during these difficult times through mentorship from our local and international pool of business experts,” Cesar Romero, former President and Chief Executive Officer of Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corporation, described the impact that the program has on the business community.
The other contenders were technology startups that also promoted livelihood and supported sustainability: Panublix from Ilo-Ilo City, an online marketplace for indigenous weavers; and SACHI-Group Inc., a Bulacan manufacturer of eco-friendly materials. All three startups were chosen from among 200 initial contenders to present their ideas and innovative enterprises during Shell LiveWIRE’s Final Pitch Day on November 16, as part of the program’s Acceleration Program.
“Shell LiveWIRE will remain committed to communities through entrepreneurship, innovation, and employment. We believe that there is a real need for innovation and collaboration to work hand in hand in solving social and economic issues,” PSFI Executive Director Quiniones said. “To the success stories of our enterprises and their dedication to act for the community needs, we have proven that despite uncertainties, like this current pandemic, Filipinos will continue to strive and move forward.” — with RGBT
