MONTREAL, CANADA — Startupfest, an annual conference and festival focused on technology entrepreneurship held this July in Montreal, gathered entrepreneurs, educators, creatives, and investors from around the world to explore trends in technology and innovation. Representing the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU), Dr. Ruth Rodriguez attended the event to engage in discussions around digital inclusion, communication, and creative enterprise.
Her participation was connected to her ongoing work on KREATTIV, an omnichannel marketplace designed to connect artisans with customers worldwide. The platform uses technology to provide a seamless shopping experience for art buyers and collectors, promote local talent, and ensure product authenticity. Dr. Rodriguez highlighted the potential of KREATTIV to contribute to both economic growth and cultural preservation in the Philippines.
At Startupfest, she participated in sessions and exchanges that explored topics such as platform development, value-based branding, and digital storytelling. The event’s flexible format—featuring thematic tents, mentoring areas, and open networking—offered opportunities to share perspectives and observe approaches used in other countries to support innovation across sectors.
During the event, Dr. Rodriguez shared information about KREATTIV’s features and goals, including its use of technology to support artisans and promote cultural products. The platform was introduced in conversations with participants from various sectors, including education, government, and industry, in the context of broader discussions on entrepreneurship, digital platforms, and creative industries.
Engaging in international forums such as Startupfest allows participants to learn from global models and explore how platform-based solutions can be adapted to different local contexts. For projects like KREATTIV, these conversations contribute to ongoing efforts to strengthen the creative economy and promote inclusive digital transformation.
Written by Shari Eunice San Pablo
#UPOpenUniversity
