Global Tech Innovator Competition 2026: Advancing innovation in the Philippines

Innovation continues to shape the future of industries, economies and societies. Across the world, technology entrepreneurs are developing solutions that are transforming how businesses operate, how communities connect and how challenges are addressed. As digital transformation accelerates, platforms that support and recognize innovation have become increasingly important in helping emerging companies grow, scale and create meaningful impact.

Over the past years, the KPMG Private Enterprise Global Tech Innovator (GTI) Competition has recognized hundreds of technology entrepreneurs from around the world, providing a platform that highlights innovative tech solutions capable of transforming industries and improving lives. More than a competition, the GTI program serves as a global platform where entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders and advisers can connect, exchange ideas and explore opportunities for collaboration and growth. It also helps surface emerging technologies that may otherwise remain within local markets, giving founders greater visibility and access to global networks that are critical to scaling innovation.

At the same time, innovation ecosystems are becoming increasingly interconnected, where ideas, capital and capabilities move more fluidly across borders. For emerging markets like the Philippines, this creates new opportunities for local startups to engage with global networks, adopt best practices faster and position themselves more competitively in international markets.

Over the years, the GTI Competition in the Philippines has featured a growing range of local innovations addressing challenges across industries. In 2023, Peddlr, a local startup providing digital solutions for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, was recognized for helping small businesses transition from manual sales tracking, inventory monitoring and credit management into more efficient digital processes. The company’s solution highlighted how technology can help empower smaller enterprises, which remain an important driver of the Philippine economy.

In 2024, Rezbin, a cleantech startup, won the competition with its smart recycling solutions focused on modernizing plastic waste recovery and sustainability initiatives. Its innovation demonstrated how technology can contribute to addressing environmental challenges while promoting more sustainable business practices and community engagement.

The 2025 GTI Competition once again highlighted the growing strength of Filipino innovation and entrepreneurship through a diverse range of technology-driven solutions. Among the participating startups, Betterteem, a human resources technology company specializing in predictive AI solutions, emerged as the local winner and represented the country at the GTI Global Finals during the Web Summit in Lisbon in November 2025.

(To be concluded next week.)