Mobile app for kids with autism wins EU-funded startup competition 

A speech development app for kids with autism and speech delays has won a startup competition funded by the European Union.

Mylo Speech Buddy, which took first place at the ARISE Plus Ye! Boost Accelerator Program Cohort 3 was awarded $2,500, or around P146,000 in cash, for its mobile application that uses a research-backed method that seeks to hone the speech and language skills of children on the autism spectrum.

"I believe our win underscores the importance of the service we provide to the market. Our winnings will play a crucial role in our efforts to further grow the company and help more Filipino families,” said Mylo Speech Buddy founder Vincent Rocha.

According to its website, Mylo Speech Buddy employs a video modeling method “that supports learners in expanding their vocabulary, comprehending instructions, and enhancing their expressive abilities.”

The mobile app has also collaborated with speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and other medical professionals who are dealing with children with special needs.

The app can be downloaded from both the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.

London-based fintech company BCRemit, which seeks to provide efficient money transfers for overseas Filipino workers, won second place.

"Our focus has been on penetrating more markets geographically to reach more migrant workers. The grant we won will fund our expansion plans to the United States," said BCRemit co-founder and director Gio Calma.

Sustainable fashion brand PAMMÉ bagged third place for its recycled plastic-made accessories crafted by women deprived of liberty.

“I’m grateful that they have opened doors for us to explore global markets. At PAMMÉ, a fashion social enterprise, we take pride in this win," said PAMMÉ founder Pamela Meija.

BCRemit and PAMMÉ received cash prizes worth $1,500 (P87,000) and $1,000 (P58,000), respectively.

In addition to the cash prizes, the top three winners will have the opportunity to build stronger networks with EU partners and investors for their global market expansion.

The winners were announced on Demo Day on June 25 in Taguig City.

Twelve startups took part in the ARISE Plus Ye1 Boost Accelerator Program Cohort 3, which was led by the International Trade Centre in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry's Competitiveness Innovation Group and QBO Innovation. —VBL, GMA Integrated News