Filipino Startups to Watch in 2025
Introduction: The Rising Wave of Filipino Startups
The Philippine tech industry has entered a remarkable phase of innovation and growth. Once known primarily as a hub for outsourcing and IT services, the country is now fostering a new generation of Filipino Startups that are changing how people work, transact, and connect. From fintech startups transforming digital payments to AI companies creating smarter tools for businesses, the Philippines is fast becoming a key player in Southeast Asia’s startup ecosystem.
The Filipino Startups of 2025–2026 will not only impact the local market but also set their sights on regional and global expansion. These startups are tapping into emerging technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, healthtech, and SaaS, addressing real-world challenges and positioning the Philippines as a hub for digital innovation.
If you want to learn more about the growing ecosystem, visit Fintech Trends in the Philippines 2025
Why 2025–2026 Is a Defining Period for Filipino Startups
The next two years represent a pivotal time for Filipino Startups. Several key factors are converging to accelerate growth across industries:
1. Expanding Venture Capital Interest
More international investors are showing confidence in the Philippine startup ecosystem. Global venture capital firms and local funds like Foxmont Capital, Gobi-Core, and Kaya Founders are supporting early-stage companies. Increased access to seed funding and Series A rounds has given startups the means to experiment, innovate, and scale sustainably.
2. Strong Government and Private Sector Support
The government, through the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), continues to back initiatives that encourage innovation and entrepreneurship. Meanwhile, private organizations and universities are launching startup incubators and accelerators to nurture talent.
3. Digital Transformation and Infrastructure
With over 80 million internet users and a mobile-first population, the Philippines provides fertile ground for digital businesses. The adoption of 5G networks, improved fintech infrastructure, and rising digital literacy are fueling a new era for Filipino Startups to thrive.
4. Globalization of Filipino Talent
Filipinos are renowned for their creativity, resilience, and adaptability. As more professionals gain experience in international firms, they bring valuable expertise back home to lead startups in AI, SaaS, e-commerce, and beyond.
Top Filipino Startups to Watch in 2025–2026
Below are the most promising Filipino Startups across multiple sectors that are expected to make significant strides in the coming years.
1. Mynt / GCash – Fintech and Digital Payments
Sector: Fintech, Digital Payments
Why It Matters:
Mynt, the parent company of GCash, remains the most successful fintech startup in the Philippines. It has revolutionized digital payments in the Philippines, enabling millions to transact, pay bills, and access credit digitally. With continuing innovation in financial inclusion, Mynt is expanding its services beyond payments—into lending, investments, and insurance.
What to Expect in 2025–2026:
- Expansion into open banking and embedded finance
- Strategic partnerships with regional fintechs
- Possible IPO or regional expansion
Reuters report on Mynt funding
2. Coins.ph – Blockchain and Remittances
Sector: Crypto, Blockchain, Fintech
Why It Matters:
Coins.ph pioneered cryptocurrency-based remittance solutions in the Philippines. It bridges digital and traditional finance, offering a safe, regulated platform for crypto trading, cross-border transfers, and bill payments. The startup’s stablecoin project PHPC highlights its commitment to transparency and innovation.
What to Expect in 2025–2026:
- Wider merchant adoption of PHPC
- New crypto remittance features
- Closer collaboration with banks and regulators
3. Sprout Solutions – HR Tech and SaaS
Sector: HR Tech, SaaS, B2B Software
Why It Matters:
Sprout Solutions is the leading HR and payroll software provider in the Philippines. Its cloud-based platform simplifies compliance, attendance tracking, and employee engagement. As more businesses embrace digital HR systems, Sprout’s growth mirrors the demand for automation.
What to Expect:
- Regional expansion into other Southeast Asian markets
- AI integration for recruitment analytics
- Partnerships with payroll and finance platforms
4. Senti AI – Artificial Intelligence for Businesses
Sector: AI Startups Philippines
Why It Matters:
Senti AI focuses on language-based artificial intelligence solutions that understand Filipino dialects. It helps companies analyze customer sentiment, automate responses, and improve customer experiences using natural language processing (NLP).
What to Expect:
- Expansion into regional AI solutions
- Development of AI tools for government services
- Partnerships with call centers and enterprises
5. Kumu – Social Entertainment and Creator Economy
Sector: Social Media, Livestreaming, Entertainment
Why It Matters:
Kumu is the Philippines’ largest livestreaming and social entertainment platform. It allows users to host shows, earn virtual gifts, and connect with fans. It’s one of the few Filipino Startups that successfully merged social networking with the creator economy.
What to Expect:
- New monetization models for content creators
- International expansion into Filipino diaspora markets
- Integration with e-commerce for live shopping
6. PayMongo – Payment Gateway and Fintech
Sector: Fintech Startups Philippines
Why It Matters:
PayMongo provides merchants with secure payment APIs and checkout solutions. It helps small and medium enterprises (SMEs) accept digital payments seamlessly, fueling the country’s e-commerce boom.
What to Expect:
- More developer tools for SMEs
- Expansion into cross-border payments
- Integration with platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce
7. Kalibrr – Talent Marketplace and Recruitment
Sector: HR Tech, Employment, SaaS
Why It Matters:
Kalibrr connects employers with highly skilled professionals in Southeast Asia. It has grown into one of the most trusted recruitment platforms for tech and creative talent, enabling companies to source efficiently within the Philippine startup ecosystem.
What to Expect:
- AI-driven matching algorithms
- Remote hiring and global job board expansion
- Deeper partnerships with universities and training centers
8. Mayani – Agritech Innovation
Sector: Agritech, Supply Chain
Why It Matters:
Mayani bridges the gap between farmers and consumers by streamlining supply chains. It helps farmers sell their produce directly to hotels, restaurants, and consumers, improving income and efficiency.
What to Expect:
- Scaling to more provinces
- Partnering with logistics firms and fintech startups
- Expansion into sustainable agriculture and climate tech
9. HealthNow – Healthtech and Telemedicine
Sector: Healthtech, Telemedicine
Why It Matters:
HealthNow connects patients with healthcare professionals through digital consultations. It has become one of the leading Filipino Startups in digital healthcare, addressing accessibility challenges and empowering rural communities.
What to Expect:
- Integration with insurance providers
- AI-driven symptom checkers
- Partnerships with pharmacies and hospitals
10. Peddlr – SME Digital Commerce
Sector: E-commerce Philippines
Why It Matters:
Peddlr is helping sari-sari store owners and small merchants digitize sales tracking and inventory management. It’s empowering thousands of micro-entrepreneurs across the country to participate in the digital economy.
What to Expect:
- Expansion into digital loans and inventory financing
- Partnerships with POS providers and fintech companies
- Growth into regional e-commerce ecosystems
Emerging Sectors for Filipino Startups
Beyond these leading examples, new categories are emerging rapidly:
- Climate Tech Philippines: addressing waste management, renewable energy, and water conservation
- EdTech Startups: creating e-learning solutions for students and professionals
- Logistics and Supply Chain Startups: optimizing delivery routes and warehouse operations
- Cybersecurity Startups: helping SMEs protect digital assets and customer data
- PropTech: modernizing real estate management and smart city infrastructure
These sectors present major opportunities for investors and founders as global trends increasingly prioritize sustainability and digitization.
Investment Landscape: Venture Capital in the Philippines
The venture capital Philippines scene has matured dramatically. Investors like Foxmont Capital Partners, Kaya Founders, and Kickstart Ventures are not only funding startups but also mentoring founders.
Key Investor Trends:
- Early-stage dominance: More pre-seed and seed funding activity
- Cross-border expansion: Investors helping startups enter other ASEAN markets
- Corporate venture capital: Conglomerates like Ayala and Globe Telecom investing in innovation
If you’re considering investment opportunities, see our related guide (Startup Funding Tips in the Philippines).
Challenges Facing Filipino Startups
Even as opportunities expand, Filipino Startups still face hurdles that require strategic navigation:
- Regulatory Uncertainty: Fintech and blockchain startups must adapt quickly to new laws and compliance standards.
- Limited Late-Stage Funding: While early funding is increasing, Series B and C rounds remain scarce.
- Talent Retention: Many skilled developers still migrate overseas for higher pay.
- Infrastructure Gaps: Internet connectivity and logistics can still hinder rural expansion.
These obstacles, however, are driving innovation as startups build creative solutions to overcome them.
The Road Ahead for Filipino Startups (2025–2026)
Looking forward, several predictions stand out for Filipino Startups:
- Regional Expansion: Expect more Philippine tech companies to enter Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
- AI Integration Across Sectors: AI startups will automate customer service, marketing, and data analytics.
- Green and Sustainable Innovation: Agritech and climate tech startups will focus on eco-friendly solutions.
- IPO and M&A Activity: Mature startups like GCash, Sprout, or Kumu could explore IPOs or mergers.
- Global Recognition: With increased capital and visibility, Filipino Startups are poised to gain global credibility as innovation leaders.
Practical Tips for Startup Founders
- Start Local, Scale Regional: Validate your model locally before expanding.
- Use Data-Driven Decisions: Leverage analytics to guide product and growth strategies.
- Prioritize Partnerships: Collaborate with telcos, banks, and universities for distribution.
- Focus on Talent and Culture: Retain top talent by building mission-driven organizations.
- Leverage Government Programs: Take advantage of DTI and DICT incentives for startups.
Conclusion
The rise of Filipino Startups reflects the Philippines’ transformation into a vibrant innovation hub. As digital infrastructure matures and venture capital expands, local founders are creating globally competitive products. From fintech to AI, agritech to e-commerce, these startups showcase the creativity, grit, and ingenuity of Filipino entrepreneurs.
By 2026, expect the Philippine startup ecosystem to produce more regional champions, attract bigger funding rounds, and inspire a new generation of innovators. The world is watching—and the best is yet to come for Filipino Startups.
Written by: Expph Blog Editorial Team
The Expph Blog team covers technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation in the Philippines. Our goal is to empower Filipino entrepreneurs with insights, guides, and success stories. Visit https://expphblog.com/blog for more startup content and business guides.
