Manila, Philippines – IdeaSpace, the startup accelerator behind IdeaSpace Investments and QBO Innovation Hub, has recently announced the appointment of Jay Fajardo as its new executive director for both companies.
For this appointment, Jay will assume the role of outgoing executive director Katrina Rausa Chan, who will be leaving her position after nearly a decade.
Following his range of industry expertise, Fajardo has founded several tech startups, including the country’s first Wi-Fi hotspot operator, Airborne Access, and tech startup accelerator LaunchGarage. In this new role, he will lead the two companies in fostering modern strategies for the country’s startup ecosystem.
Speaking about his appointment, Jay shared, “I’m excited to have the opportunity to step in as a leader in the startup ecosystem, bringing with me new energy and goals. I believe that 2024 will see the Philippines as a regional startup success story, being home to a talented workforce, digital-savvy market, and a mature startup community.”
Rene “Butch” Meily, president at IdeaSpace and QBO Innovation Hub, also expressed his confidence in Jay, stating, “I welcome Jay to the company and acknowledge him and his achievements that shaped the Philippine startup ecosystem. We are delighted to have him steer the ship forward, and we’re excited to witness what he will be bringing to the table.”
Meanwhile, Katrina Rausa Chan, outgoing executive director at IdeaSpace and QBO Innovation Hub, pondered her achievements, saying, “I’m immensely proud of what we have achieved during my time at IdeaSpace and QBO Innovation Hub. This spans the creation of QBO itself, our programmes such as the PH Startup Week, IdeaSpace Accelerator, and Startup Pinay — all of which garnered multiple awards.”
“Most importantly, I’m proudest of the growing number of startups we have supported and the inspiring founders behind them who are now poised to be future Filipino UNIQORNS,” she concluded.
IdeaSpace Foundation stands as the foremost catalyst for startups in the Philippines, including IdeaSpace Investments and QBO Innovation Hub.
