#GCash has once again ignited the innovative spirit of nearly 600 future leaders through its annual #ImaGnation competition. This four-day event challenges third to fifth-year undergraduate students to devise a comprehensive strategy that enhances the accessibility of digital financial services and promotes inclusivity among GCash users.
‘ImaGnation’ serves as GCash’s platform to engage students in crafting innovative ideas that resonate with the company’s vision of a sustainable future. It also serves as a talent identification platform in the burgeoning fintech industry, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to join the workforce.
This year, students were tasked to formulate a strategy addressing at least two UN Sustainable Development Goals. The strategy will guide the development of new product features, marketing strategies, and other solutions to tackle identified challenges.
From 217 teams, 15 finalists were shortlisted, and three emerged as winners. The grand prize of Php60,000 GCash credits and an Apple iPad 10th Gen for each member was awarded to team G na G! Their winning pitch focused on financial inclusion through P2B micro-lending, empowering MSMEs and everyday Filipinos.
Team ADMUPDLSU clinched the second-place prize of Php40,000 GCash credits and a pair of Apple Airpods Pro for each member. Their innovative strategy centered on accessibility features catering to the PWD sector.
Team Baler Nights secured third place with their pitch on how GCash can foster a more sustainable, resilient, and future-proof agriculture industry. They won Php20,000 GCash credits and an Amazon Kindle for each member.
The winning strategies will be integrated into GCash’s Sustainability plans and initiatives, reflecting the company’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators driving financial inclusion for a more sustainable future.
“At GCash, sustainability is not just an agenda—it is our way of life. I eagerly anticipate the realization of these ideas, driving a positive impact on Filipinos through their financial journey,” said Winsley Bangit, GCash VP and Group Head of New Businesses and Wealth Management.
The winning teams have also secured slots in GCash’s Jumpstart Internship Program, where they can further refine their innovation skills. They will also gain valuable insights from their bootcamp on Design Thinking & Business Storytelling Frameworks, Business Case Essentials, and Sustainability in Business.
Teams Autobots Rollout and Matja, the fourth and fifth placers, also received a consolation prize of Php15,000 GCash credits.
“As we usher in a new generation into the emerging FinTech Industry, we at GCash aim to provide them with opportunities through ImaGnation,” said Robert Gonzales, GCash Chief People Officer.
This year’s ImaGnation reached 105 schools from 16 regions across the Philippines. The Top 15 finalists were selected based on the overall quality, feasibility, and uniqueness of their initial idea pitches. Among the Top 15, one team hailed from Cebu, and another from Pangasinan, showcasing the wealth of untapped talent across the country.
“This is just the beginning. GCash is committed to nurturing the ideas, talent, and energy of young people to drive financial progress for all Filipinos. I hope everyone here will continue to help us pursue our vision of Finance for All through these ideas and in your own ways,” Bangit concluded.
FAQs
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What is GCash’s ‘ImaGnation’? ‘ImaGnation’ is an annual competition by GCash that challenges undergraduate students to come up with innovative strategies that align with the company’s vision of a sustainable future.
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What was the challenge for this year’s ‘ImaGnation’? This year, students were tasked to devise a strategy that addresses at least two UN Sustainable Development Goals.
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Who were the winners of this year’s ‘ImaGnation’? The grand prize was awarded to team G na G!, while Team ADMUPDLSU and Team Baler Nights secured the second and third places, respectively.
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What are the prizes for the winners? The grand prize includes Php60,000 GCash credits and an Apple iPad 10th Gen for each member. The second-place prize includes Php40,000 GCash credits and a pair of Apple Airpods Pro for each member. The third-place prize includes Php20,000 GCash credits and an Amazon Kindle for each member.
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What happens to the winning strategies? The winning strategies will be integrated into GCash’s Sustainability plans and initiatives.