Aspiring startup founders took flight at Launch Ignition: 9-Step Blueprint for Startup Success, a high-impact event held at the CPUGAD Technology Business Incubator (TBI) of Central Philippine University on April 30. With a mission to help student-led startups launch smarter and scale with purpose, the session brought together innovation, introspection, and actionable guidance — all under the mentorship of Cris Vinson, founder of Civy and Primof.
Guided by the belief that businesses should serve both people and the planet, Vinson led the participants through key sessions designed to sharpen clarity, intention, and entrepreneurial confidence. More than just theory, Launch Ignition was a call to action for founders to revisit the “why” behind their startups, discover their true audience, and pitch with impact.
Key Highlights:
Avatar Making: Participants reflected on who they’re truly building for, diving deep into customer identities and pain points.
Niche Targeting: Vinson emphasized the power of specificity — understanding market segments and tailoring solutions accordingly.
Beyond Elevator Pitching: More than buzzwords and memorized lines, young founders were taught how to pitch with conviction, clarity, and connection.
Business Coaching: Through interactive coaching, participants were encouraged to refine their startup ideas, challenge assumptions, and explore sustainable strategies.
“It wasn’t just educational but eye-opening,” shared Matt Fto, Founder & CEO of Packup.
For Prime Nicolli Acdol, CEO & Founder of LECA, the event offered a deeper understanding of market segmentation and strategic frameworks — essential building blocks for any growing startup.
“The program was fun, insightful, and emotional. It didn’t sugarcoat things,” added Laurence Gabriele Avelino and Shane De La Torre, COOs of LECA, who also felt validated in their direction and more equipped to improve their initiatives moving forward.
Building Nests, Igniting Flights
Organized as part of CPUGAD TBI’s N³ Incubation Program, Launch Ignition offered more than just a curriculum — it created a supportive space for innovation to thrive. Much like its namesake, CPUGAD (from CPU and the Hiligaynon word “pugad”, meaning “nest”), the initiative nurtures startup founders from ideation to execution.
Participants walked away with their personalized LaunchMaps, a strategic guide aligning their passion, product, and profit into a roadmap for sustainable growth.
“At Primof and Civy, we believe you don’t have to choose between purpose and profitability. With the right mindset and tools, you can have both,” Vinson said in his closing remarks.
As CPUGAD TBI continues to empower Ilonggo innovators, Launch Ignition stands as a strong first chapter — preparing young founders to not only take off, but soar with intention.
