Tell us more about yourself.
My name is Alvin Edwald Chan. Currently, I am a freelance behavioral strategy consultant working on various projects aimed at helping clients achieve specific target behaviors. My work ranges from on-field research and community engagement, to consulting with teams to integrate interaction models into their existing systems. Additionally, I implement experiments such as game-aided learning modules.
In terms of my background, I have worked as a game designer, a gamification/behavior consultant, a community builder, and as a co-founder/product strategist for a software development house. I also had a brief stint as an investment manager for RLC’s experimental tech investment arm.
What made you want to become a mentor at Plug and Play?
I was approached for this role due to my unique experience as an investment manager for a large real estate company. Initially, I was hesitant because I believe that mentoring should always add value to the startup. However, my first experience turned out very well; I was glad that I could help the startup understand the local landscape. Being able to connect and assist others is what I love about mentoring.
What are some of your highlights as a mentor for our Global Innovation Alliance program in Manila?
Meeting new startups and fellow mentors in the cohort is always a rewarding experience. As a community builder at heart, these new connections not only benefit me in the long term but also empower me to support others and strengthen our community.
How do you help founders who are embarking on their entrepreneurial journey?
I try to understand the stage each startup is at and identify relevant connections I can introduce to the founders. This helps them either gain a better understanding of the startup space or source for potential local partners. Having been actively involved in a business club for four years, in addition to other community initiatives, I have built a strong network of vetted connections across various industries.
Why do you think the Manila market is ideal for startups looking to expand?
The culture in the Philippines is a unique blend of East and West, making Manila an excellent testbed for understanding diverse use cases. Manila has proved itself to be an early adopter of global trends, such as anime, K-pop, and even crypto. Filipinos are highly engaged, which has resulted in the rise of an interesting online phenomenon called "Pinoy baiting" – a strategy often utilized by content creators on social media platforms like YouTube to attract a substantial audience.
How can startups benefit from joining Plug and Play’s ecosystem?
Plug and Play has strong ties with a diverse array of local, international, private, and public entities. This unique position enables them to help startups understand local markets and connect them to valuable resources, particularly through government channels and established corporations.
What are the biggest challenges and most important lessons you learned in your career?
Throughout my career, I’ve learned that it’s important to understand yourself and recognize when to ask for help. Carefully choose, build, and value your connections, as they will help lighten any problem you come across.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Solve problems close to your heart. No matter how unique the problem is, there could potentially be thousands of clients seeking solutions.
Mentor: Alvin Edwald Chan
Alvin Edwald Chan is one of our Global Innovation Alliance Manila mentors. He is a freelance behavioral strategy consultant.
Find out more about our GIA Manila Program here.
Interested in being one of our mentors? Join our platform here!
