The Nexus for Artificial Intelligence Research and Application (DOST-NAIRA) Project, implemented by the Department of Science and Technology - Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI), organized “AIgnite MSMEs: Fostering AI Tech Adoption for Filipino Entrepreneurs,” a week-long training for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), faculty, students, and local stakeholders in Region XIII (CARAGA). This event marked the official kickoff of NAIRA's larger AIgnite initiative.
The program began with a webinar series on June 1, 8, and 9 of 2026, followed by onsite focused group discussions and AI project prototype development activities in Butuan City proper from July 7 to 9 of 2026.
The activity aimed to provide attendees with practical exposure to artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) concepts, tools, and adoption pathways. Students participated alongside MSMEs in ideation and rapid development activities to help translate business needs into potential AI-enabled solutions while strengthening their own applied AI/ML skills. Through these active student-MSME collaborations, the activity aimed to support and foster regional innovation and future local replication.
Photo courtesy of DOST-CARAGA