WHAT IS GRIND PROGRAM?

The GRIND program of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) empowers marginalized communities by developing and strengthening existing Grassroots Innovations (GIs) and establishing comprehensive support systems across regional offices.

Science & Tech Support
Tailored S&T solutions for community innovators
Expert Networks
Formation of GRIND advocates and evaluators per province
Policy Advocacy
Recommending GI-supportive policies to regional and local councils
GI Identification
Screening and evaluation of promising grassroots innovations
Collaboration & Mentorship
Connecting innovators with mentors, experts, and potential partners for growth
Innovation Development
Providing assistance for prototype improvement, testing, and technology validation

About the GRIND Program

Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development

The GRIND Program (Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development) is a flagship initiative of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) that seeks to identify, support, and elevate homegrown innovations emerging from underserved communities across the Philippines.

By bringing Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) tools closer to grassroots realities, GRIND empowers local innovators — including farmers, fisherfolk, women, youth, and indigenous peoples — who create solutions rooted in necessity and lived experience.

  • 🌱 Tailored support: product development, lab testing, IP, and mentoring
  • 🔬 Capacity-building and funding for scalable innovations
  • 🤝 Community-driven ecosystem through local GRIND Networks

More than a program, GRIND is a movement that invests in the creativity and resilience of Filipinos — paving the way for an inclusive, locally rooted, and innovation-driven future.

GRIND Program Framework

The Philippines' Comprehensive Strategy for Geographical Indication Development

LEARNING

Foundation phase focusing on comprehensive assessment and data collection of geographical indications across the Philippines.

  • Inventory of GIs via UNDP's SalikLakbay
  • Development of GI database per region
  • Evaluation of potential and priority GIs

LEVERAGING

Strategic application of science and technology resources to enhance the value and competitiveness of priority GIs.

  • Provision of S&T assistance to priority GIs
  • Packaging of S&T interventions
  • Technology transfer and capacity building

LINKING

Building collaborative networks through the Penta Helix model to strengthen GI ecosystems and knowledge sharing.

  • Creation of GRIND Network via Penta Helix
  • Enrollment to DOST Experts' Pool
  • Sharing of expertise within the network

LEGITIMIZING

Establishing formal recognition and policy frameworks to ensure sustainable GI development and protection.

  • Policy recommendations based on field insights
  • Use of GRIND Implementation Guidelines
  • Regulatory framework development
Aligned with MTPDP & Sustainable Development Goals

Target Communities and Beneficiaries

GRIND is committed to empowering Filipinos from the grassroots level by recognizing and supporting community-based innovators with little to no access to formal institutions.

Indigenous Peoples & Communities
Indigenous Peoples & Communities

Recognizing traditional knowledge systems and indigenous innovations that preserve heritage while solving modern-day community challenges.

Learn More
Women Innovators
Women Innovators

Supporting women-led innovations in livelihood, health, and community development—often born from daily challenges and care work.

Learn More
Out-of-School Youth
Out-of-School Youth (OSY)

Empowering young minds with raw creativity and resourcefulness by nurturing their capacity to contribute to inclusive innovation.

Learn More
Grassroots Innovators
Grassroots Innovators

Farmers, fisherfolk, artisans, workers, and other community members who create low-cost, high-impact innovations—without formal R&D support.

Learn More
Informal & Unorganized Sectors
Informal & Unorganized Sectors

Individuals with no access to structured support systems but who demonstrate ingenuity and resilience through practical innovations.

Learn More
Community-Based Impact
Community-Based Impact

Any innovation that addresses localized problems and improves quality of life, regardless of the innovator's background or sector.

Learn More