Top 5 Manila Startups to Watch in 2026
Manila's startup scene shows a dynamic mix of industries, from financial technology to education. Companies are tackling key sectors, reflecting a broad range of market needs in the region.
Established players like the fintech company BillEase have secured significant funding, reaching over $146 million. Meanwhile, newer ventures in areas like retail and healthcare are also attracting investment, showing the ecosystem's continued growth.
Below is our list of 5 Manila startups worth keeping an eye on.
Failory's Top 5 Picks
Through its consumer finance app, BillEase provides buy now, pay later services and personal loans for everyday shoppers. The company uses AI to power its range of financial products for both online and offline transactions.
| Year Founded | 2015 |
| Founders | Georg Steiger, Huyen Nguyen, Ritche Weekun |
| Funding Amount | $146.3M |
| Startup Size | Large Team (251-1,000) |
| Last Funding Status | Debt Financing |
| Top Investors | The Rise Fund, Lendable, MDI Ventures, KB Investment, Helicap |
Phinma Education Holdings manages a network of colleges and universities across Southeast Asia, primarily serving students from low-income families. The educational group is notable for its strong student performance, with graduates achieving board exam passing rates well above the national average.
| Year Founded | 2021 |
| Founders | — |
| Funding Amount | ₱8.3B |
| Startup Size | Major Organization (1,001-5,000) |
| Last Funding Status | Private Equity |
| Top Investors | Asian Development Bank, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts, FMO, Kaizenvest |
Lista created a popular financial management tool designed to help Filipinos manage their credit and daily finances. The platform simplifies bookkeeping and debt collection, giving users a clearer picture of their financial standing.
| Year Founded | 2021 |
| Founders | Aaron Morada Villegas |
| Funding Amount | $5.1M |
| Startup Size | Founding Team (1-10) |
| Last Funding Status | Seed |
| Top Investors | Saison Capital, East Ventures, 1982 Ventures, Openspace Capital, Roland Navarro de Ros |
My Kindred operates a hybrid women's health clinic that provides a safe and accessible space for comprehensive care. They offer a range of services, including support for contraception, fertility, and sexual health, through both virtual and in-person consultations.
| Year Founded | 2022 |
| Founders | — |
| Funding Amount | $6.5M |
| Startup Size | Mid-Size Team (51-250) |
| Last Funding Status | Seed |
| Top Investors | KAYA, Integra Partners, Kaya Founders, TENCO Capital, KSR Ventures |
Toki builds a social commerce platform where users can safely buy and sell collectibles. The company focuses on making transactions profitable for sellers and enjoyable for the entire collector community.
| Year Founded | 2023 |
| Founders | — |
| Funding Amount | $1.8M |
| Startup Size | Lean Team (11-50) |
| Last Funding Status | Pre-Seed |
| Top Investors | Foxmont Capital Partners, Kaya Founders, Big Boy Cheng, Brian Cu, Ernest Cu |
