Is Manila a Good Place to Launch a Startup?

Where you start your company still matters – but sticking too closely to one location might limit what you’re able to build. In today’s startup landscape, geography shapes your path – but it doesn’t have to define your potential.

Manila has emerged as a strong hub for entrepreneurship, offering access to funding, talent, and infrastructure. But with growing competition, rigid local programmes, and support often reserved for the most polished startups, relying solely on what’s nearby can slow you down – or hold you back.

In this article, we’ll explore what Manila gets right – and where founders often run into friction. We’ll also show how EWOR offers an alternative: a global, remote-first platform that gives you access to funding, mentorship, and community – no matter where you’re based.

1. Access to Funding in Manila

Funding is one of the most critical ingredients in building a successful startup – and Manila offers a growing ecosystem of support. From venture capital firms to government grants and angel investors, founders in this region have several pathways to raise capital and gain early traction.

The early-stage funding scene for startups in Manila is dynamic, though not without its hurdles. Notable local support comes from groups like the Manila Angel Investors Network (MAIN), the largest committed private investors network in the Philippines, and VC firms such as Foxmont Capital Partners and Kickstart Ventures, which actively invest in early-stage tech companies. The government also plays a role through initiatives like the DOST's Startup Grant Fund and the DTI-NDC's Startup Venture Fund, aimed at providing crucial early capital and support. However, challenges persist, including a perceived lack of early-stage funding support and a funding gap particularly in the pre-Series A stage. Reports indicate a significant drop in overall startup funding in the Philippines in 2023 compared to 2022, with founders expressing pessimism about the funding environment, although foreign investment has seen a surge in 2024. Bureaucratic hurdles and talent migration also remain challenges for the ecosystem.

A More Flexible Path Forward

In the wake of these challenges, founders don’t have to rely solely on local funding options. EWOR offers a more flexible path – providing up to €500,000 in early-stage capital But EWOR is more than a cheque. Our capital comes bundled with personalised support, investor-ready storytelling, and access to a network of over 400 active European investors – many of whom regularly participate in our Grand Pitch events. On average, EWOR fellows who complete the programme and pitch go on to raise €2 million in follow-on funding – over 10x more than founders from comparable European initiatives.

2. Innovation and Startup Culture  

Manila has become a centre of innovation, with numerous tech hubs, coworking spaces, and accelerators that foster creativity and new ideas. The local startup culture is vibrant, with a growing community of entrepreneurs working together to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Manila has a growing startup and innovation culture, positioning itself as a key hub in Southeast Asia. The city boasts a significant presence of coworking spaces, estimated at around 200. Tech events are frequent, with Philippine Startup Week being a major annual conference, alongside numerous community-led events and specialized meetups focusing on various tech sectors. Entrepreneurial activity is notable, with close to 1,100 startups and increasing early-stage funding. The ecosystem supports both early-stage and more mature startups. There are numerous incubators and accelerators, some specifically targeting pre-seed and early-stage companies with tailored programs, mentorship, and even initial funding or grants. Organizations like QBO Innovation Hub and IdeaSpace Foundation offer resources and programs for startups across different stages. Government initiatives also provide funding opportunities for early-stage ventures. While competitive programs exist, there's also a focus on providing personalized guidance and support through mentorship networks and specialized services.

For many entrepreneurs, the energy and resources available in Manila can provide the ideal environment to test new ideas and gain early traction. The collaborative atmosphere allows founders to connect with fellow innovators and build networks that can help their startups grow.

While the local startup culture is vibrant, the support founders actually receive can be hit or miss. VCs might offer funding but little time. Angel investors often give advice, but it’s scattered and inconsistent. What’s more, many accelerators rely on a one-size-fits-all model that doesn’t reflect the needs of exceptional founders. In fast-moving, competitive ecosystems like Manila, standing out is hard enough – getting the right kind of support shouldn’t be.

The Alternative to Cookie-Cutter Programmes

Finding a programme that truly adapts to your journey, not the other way around, is rare. However, EWOR offers the kind of depth and flexibility that many local programmes simply can’t match. Instead of following a fixed curriculum, our fellowships are modular and tailored – giving you the right support at the right time, based on where you are in your journey.

But the real strength of EWOR goes beyond structure. Fellows often describe the community as the most unexpected – and valuable – part of the experience. As some have put it: “The real magic lies in the community: the kind of conversations, insights, and connections that lead not only to breakthroughs – but to lasting friendships with some of the most fascinating people they’ve ever met”.

3. Talent and Workforce Availability

One of the greatest assets of launching a startup in Manila is access to a skilled and diverse talent pool. With universities producing top-tier graduates in technology, business, and other fields, startups can tap into a wealth of expertise to help grow their teams.

Manila offers a significant talent pool for startups, partly due to numerous educational institutions like the University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University, and De La Salle University, which offer strong tech and business programs. The workforce is known for English proficiency and adaptability. Key industry-specific skills available include those in fintech, e-commerce, gaming, software development, data analytics, AI, and cybersecurity. Local talent supports entrepreneurial growth through a vibrant startup culture, government initiatives like the Innovative Startup Act, and a growing number of incubators and accelerators. While competitive, Manila is recognized for having affordable talent and a strong "Bang for Buck" for startups.

Like funding, competition for talent can be fierce, especially for highly specialised roles in fields like software development or AI. For startups looking to scale quickly, hiring the right people at the right time can be a challenge, leading some founders to look outside the region for remote talent solutions.

Get Global While Local

While hiring locally in Manila can be competitive and slow, EWOR gives you instant access to a global network of exceptional talent. Built by founders for founders, the EWOR team has launched and exited companies worth over €12 billion – and they bring that experience directly into your venture. It's not just about funding or surface-level advice; it's akin to having a co-founder from day one. 

The team collaborates closely with you to refine your idea, challenge your thinking, and support you through real-world decisions – just like a hands-on partner would. Moreover, with EWOR’s exclusive co-founder pool, you can find the right person to build with, regardless of their location.

4. Infrastructure and Support Systems

Manila boasts a strong infrastructure that supports the growth of new businesses. From modern office spaces to high-speed internet, entrepreneurs have access to everything they need to run their startups smoothly. Government policies may also provide tax breaks, legal support, and other incentives that make starting a business more attractive in this region.

Manila's startup ecosystem is supported by a growing infrastructure including numerous co-working spaces, incubators, and accelerators. These provide startups with resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities crucial for growth. The Philippine government actively supports this ecosystem through initiatives like the Innovative Startup Act and the Philippine Innovation Act. Key agencies such as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) offer various programs, including grant funds, technical assistance, and streamlined registration processes through initiatives like the Startup Business One-Stop Shop (SBOSS). These efforts aim to enhance funding access, nurture talent, and improve the overall environment for startups to thrive.

But what looks good on paper often proves more complicated in practice. Bureaucracy can be time-consuming and opaque, especially for first-time founders unfamiliar with local laws. Incorporation takes longer than expected. Accessing public funding often means navigating slow processes, strict requirements, or hard-to-reach advisors. And operational costs – from accounting to regulatory compliance – can quickly eat into early budgets. 

A System That Moves With You

With access to expert guidance, practical legal resources, and a network of experienced entrepreneurs who’ve built across a range of regulatory systems, EWOR is well positioned to help founders navigate the bureaucratic and legal complexities that often come with building in Manila. Instead of wasting time figuring things out alone, you’ll have the tools and support to stay focused on what matters most – growing your venture.

And while we’re remote-first, our support is anything but distant. Through in-person gatherings like the EWOR House, city-based meetups, and our twice-yearly Grand Pitch event, you’ll still build meaningful relationships with investors, peers, and mentors. It’s a system that helps you focus on building – not just dealing with paperwork.

Can Manila Be Considered the Best Place to Launch a Startup?

There’s no doubt that Manila provides a vibrant environment for startups, with access to funding, innovation, talent, and infrastructure that can help entrepreneurs build successful businesses. For many, it’s a strong contender for the best place to launch a startup, thanks to its growing entrepreneurial ecosystem and support systems.

Entrepreneurs launching startups in Manila face several challenges. Competition is significant, particularly in popular sectors like fintech and e-commerce, with most startup activity concentrated in Metro Manila. While the cost of living in Manila can be relatively affordable for individuals compared to global hubs, attracting and retaining skilled tech talent can be difficult due to a "brain drain" and competitive salaries within the city. Regulatory hurdles and bureaucratic red tape also pose considerable obstacles, making business registration and compliance time-consuming and complex. The Philippines has been ranked as one of the most challenging countries to launch a startup due to factors including procedure costs and regulatory environment.

However, it’s important to remember that the location of a startup is no longer the be-all and end-all. In today’s digital age, location-independent options like EWOR allow entrepreneurs to access world-class mentorship, funding, and resources from anywhere in the world. Whether you’re based in Manila or elsewhere, EWOR’s remote programmes are designed to support founders no matter where they are located.

So, while Manila offers significant advantages, it’s worth considering options like EWOR that enable you to launch and scale your startup with global support – whether you’re in the heart of a bustling startup hub or working from a quiet corner of the world.

Image credits: by Andreas Brücker on Unsplash