LOS BAÑOS, Laguna—A gender-smart incubator supporting impact-driven enterprises has partnered with the Southeast Asian center for research in agriculture to run the Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security Enhancement (SAFE) Accelerator.
Villgro Philippines and the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) partnered to manage SAFE Accelerator, a virtual accelerator program designed to support high-potential enterprises developing regenerative, climate-resilient solutions that address food security and sustainable agriculture challenges in Southeast Asia.
The SAFE Accelerator aims to cultivate market-driven, climate-resilient solutions that protect biodiversity, sustain farming communities, and improve food security.
With agriculture as the backbone for millions across the region, the sector faces escalating threats from climate change, extreme weather events, unsustainable farming practices, and food waste.
"SEARCA, with its deep expertise in advancing climate-smart agriculture and agritechinnovations, sees the SAFE Accelerator as a key initiative in fostering sustainable development across the region," said SEARCA Center Director Dr. Glenn Gregorio.
He added that the program will support four enterprises in Lao PDR, the Philippines, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam that integrate regenerative, nature-based solutions in their business models.
"The need of the hour is urgent transformative change to ensure food security. Regenerative agriculture is at the heart of restoring ecosystems and ensuring our food systems are sustainable. The SAFE Accelerator will equip enterprises driving climate-friendly agribusinesses with coaching, tools, and networks to scale regenerative solutions that sustain both people and the planet." said Co-founder and CEO of Villgro PhilippinesPriya Thachadi.
The four-month virtual accelerator program offers tailored capacity building, mentorship from industry experts, hands-on workshops, gender-smart training, and self-paced investment training.
The program will conclude with an Impact Showcase where selected enterprises will connect with potential investors and partners. Additionally, eligible enterprises may receive further funding opportunities through Villgro Philippines' investor network.
"The SAFE Accelerator is an important step for empowering enterprises at the forefront of climate-smart agriculture, enabling them to scale solutions and the kind of innovations needed to reshape agriculture in Southeast Asia—driving both ecological restoration and long-term food security," said Atty. Eric Reynoso, SEARCA Program head for Emerging Innovation for Growth.
Applications will open soon for screening and joint evaluation by Villgro PH and SEARCA. Interested enterprises or partner organizations in Lao PDR, the Philippines, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam may reach out to the team at