Empowering Entrepreneurs to Innovate, Sustain and Succes

The Hatch+ Program reached its pinnacle on March 22, 2025, with the final pitching event at the Paing Hechanova Creativity Center, RC Makati Clubhouse, marking the culmination of a ten-session journey launched in August 3, 2024 in partnership with StartUp Village. From an initial cohort of ten teams, five promising startups emerged, each presenting innovative business proposals aimed at addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. Graced by esteemed members of RC Makati, including Pres. Keith Harrison, Program Chair Bom Villatuya, Director Johnny Ang, Rtn. Aaron with Ann Daianne Mempin, and Paolo Turno, the event emphasized the club’s unwavering commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and empowering individuals to create sustainable enterprises.

In his opening remarks, Pres. Keith emphasized that the Hatch+ Program was more than just a competition, it was a transformative journey of growth and resilience. Carlo Calimon, President and Co-founder of StartUp Village, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of adaptability and perseverance in entrepreneurship.

The Hatch+ Program showcased the culmination of months of innovation, perseverance, and entrepreneurial development. Ms. Rosa Javier, CEO and Founder of Laya Creative Hub, opened the segment by presenting Laya’s mission to empower persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) through creative rehabilitation and vocational programs. Over two years, Laya trained 50 artists, facilitated over Php 200,000 in sales, and developed the HEL (Holistic Well-being, Empowerment, and Livelihood) model to enhance business sustainability. Their latest venture, Laya Handmade Leather Bags, featured eco-printed packaging from natural materials, aiming to generate Php 25 million in revenue within five years, increase PDLs’ income by 40%, and expand training programs through strategic partnerships. Juan Dalisay Jr., founder of Pantrypoints Circle, followed with an innovative approach to addressing food insecurity and waste through a moneyless circular economy. His system integrated food rescue operations, a ledger-based transaction model using points instead of money, sustainable urban farming, and a community-driven responsibility framework. Despite challenges such as flooding and low crop yields, the initiative refined its strategies to create an inflation-free, barter-based economy. Dalisay emphasized that collaborative efforts from stakeholders could help break the cycle of food waste and hunger. Next, Blossom Morante, CEO and Founder of FURK (Fur Kingdom), introduced a digital pet care platform designed to offer 24/7 pet services, including walking, grooming, home visits, and international pet travel assistance. Built as a web-based platform with plans for a mobile app, FURK ensured cashless transactions, appointment scheduling, and real-time updates, mirroring Airbnb’s model. Targeting urban hubs like BGC, Makati, Eastwood, and Capitol Commons, FURK projected a return on investment within two years, positioning itself as a game-changer in the pet care industry. Meanwhile, Florante Sangrenes, CEO and Co-founder of Emathrix Robotics, delivered his pitch via a video recording, as he was attending a workshop. Lastly, Sean Calzada, Marketing Senior Mission Specialist of Kadakareer, tackled the employment gap among Filipino youth by introducing a virtual apprenticeship program that provided project-based training in tech and digital skills. By partnering with companies, Kadakareer streamlined hiring processes while equipping students with hands-on experience. With a 60% job placement rate in 2024, the initiative aimed to increase placements to 80% within six months, calling for investors and corporate partners to help scale its impact.

Following the presentations, an engaging Q&A session allowed audience members to provide valuable insights and constructive feedback to the pitchers. As the event concluded, participants received certificates, recognizing their commitment and achievements in the Hatch+ Program.

In his closing remarks, Bom Villatuya, Chairman of the Hatch+ Program, emphasized the importance of innovation, resilience, and collaboration in entrepreneurship. He reaffirmed the RCM’s commitment to fostering business development in partnership with StartUp Village and encouraged participants to remain engaged in their ventures. The Hatch+ Program, spanning ten transformative sessions, has equipped aspiring entrepreneurs with critical skills, mentorship, and industry insights, paving the way for new opportunities and impactful solutions in various industries.