ICEBOX TBI is a university-based innovation hub established to support early-stage startups and researchers in developing sustainable, technology-driven ventures. It is hosted by Mindanao State University – General Santos and supported by the DOST-PCIEERD through the HEIRIT Program.

We support innovation-driven startups at ideation to early growth stages, especially those focused on smart systems, digital platforms, creative technologies, and socially relevant solutions. We prioritize startups with high potential for scalability and positive impact in Mindanao and beyond.

ICEBOXING is our flagship milestone-based incubation program designed to help startups improve their readiness in four key areas: Technology, Customer, Business, and Funding. It includes structured workshops, mentoring, diagnostics, and pitch events across four main milestones and a post-incubation (BOXING) phase.

No. The ICEBOXING Program is free for accepted startups. It is fully funded through government support and partner institutions. However, participants must commit to completing the required activities and deliverables within the program timeline.

We accept:

• Students and faculty researchers from MSU-Gensan and other institutions
• Independent innovators and startup founders
• Teams with a prototype, idea, or concept ready for development
• Early-stage businesses looking to validate or pivot using tech-based models

ICEBOX provides:

• Co-working and meeting space
• Mentorship and technical coaching
• Access to investors and grant opportunities
• Legal and IP support
• Training on business, tech development, and market strategy
• Linkages with government, academe, and industry

Each cohort runs for approximately 6 to 8 months, covering onboarding, four milestones, and demo day. A post-incubation support phase (BOXING) is also available for select graduates.

Incubatees are expected to:

• Attend scheduled workshops and coaching sessions
• Submit milestone deliverables (e.g., MVPs, pitch decks, business models)
• Engage with mentors and peers
• Present during pitch sessions and Demo Day
• Abide by ICEBOX TBI house rules and collaboration values

Yes. Graduates may access alumni support, including follow-on mentoring, post-incubation training (BOXING), grant writing assistance, and invitations to partner events or investor pitches.

You can apply through our official call for applications, usually posted on our website, social media pages, and partner networks. Follow us on Facebook or inquire at our TBI office on the MSU-Gensan campus for updates.

Yes. ICEBOX TBI offers a co-working space equipped with tables, internet, charging stations, and printing support. It’s open to incubatees, startup teams, and partners who are working on innovation or business development activities.

Priority is given to:

• Current incubatees and ICEBOXING participants
• Alumni startups of the TBI
• Mentors, faculty partners, or collaborators with approved appointments
• External startups or researchers may also request access on a case-by-case basis, subject to availability.

Yes, it is free for incubatees, Student Entrepreneurs Association Members, and registered users under ICEBOX programs. For external users or event partners, usage may be subject to a written request or maintenance fee depending on duration and nature of use.

Yes. The ICEBOX TBI event space can be booked for innovation-related activities such as startup forums, bootcamps, workshops, and partner meetings. Reservations must be made in advance through the TBI office.

Our space is equipped with:

• Tables and flexible seating arrangements
• Projector and sound system
• Co-working Space
• Wi-Fi connection
• Whiteboards and presentation tools
• Computers (High Performance, High-end, and Low-end)
• Hot and cold water

Please email us at icebox@msugensan.edu.ph or visit the TBI office to fill out a reservation form. Include the purpose, date, time, and number of attendees. Approval is subject to alignment with ICEBOX’s innovation and entrepreneurship goals.