In an era defined by Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and digital transformation, innovation is often associated with global tech hubs far from home. Yet today, world-class technology is no longer just imported – it is being built right here in Cebu. At the center of this movement stands Engr. Norman Curato, the visionary behind Xeleqt Technology Innovations Inc., whose story of resilience, reinvention, and determination has reshaped what it means to be a Filipino innovator.
Norman’s journey is a testament to the power of beginning again. After enduring bankruptcy and finding himself in a job market that had little space for him, he made a courageous decision: instead of waiting for opportunity, he would create it. Armed with nothing more than two borrowed laptops, three deeply committed team members, and a belief that technology could uplift communities, he stepped into the world of startups.
Their first venture – a video conferencing platform fell short due to poor internet infrastructure and market readiness. But what could have been a breaking point became a turning point. Norman refused to let failure define him. He pivoted, explored low-bandwidth communication solutions, and recognized the untapped potential of IoT in the Philippines. It was here that his vision began to take shape.
Building a startup outside Manila’s established tech ecosystem was an uphill climb. With fewer investors, limited exposure, and scarce opportunities, Norman learned to turn obstacles into stepping stones. He traveled to Manila to join pitch competitions, forged relationships within Cebu’s business community, and even offered Xeleqt’s event registration system in exchange for booth space at local events. That strategic act landed Xeleqt its first major client eventually leading to over fifty events nationwide using the platform. His journey proved that innovation does not flourish in comfort, but in courage and creativity.
Under Norman’s leadership, Xeleqt has achieved milestones once considered improbable for a Cebu-based company. The startup championed national competitions such as the PLDT Startup Innovation Challenge and the SLINGSHOT x Venture Pilipinas pitch contest, consistently earning a place among the Top 100 Startups in the Philippines. Their breakthrough product, OmniTraq, an AI-powered machine was named Most Innovative Product of the Year at the 2024 KMC Startup Awards, making Xeleqt the only Cebuano startup honored at a national level. Today, the company serves nearly 1,000 paying customers across industries including logistics, FMCG, construction, retail, and supply chain solidifying its role as a trailblazer in Philippine tech.
Yet beyond the technology is a leader who champions purpose and people. Norman leads with humility, empathy, and intention. In Xeleqt’s flat, fast-paced culture, he connects with every team member personally, ensuring each one feels valued and heard. His leadership philosophy, “listen, learn, and then lead,” guides a workplace where ideas are welcomed, contributions matter, and everyone shares in the company’s success. He believes that innovation is not built by one mind, but by empowering many.
More than an engineer. More than an entrepreneur. Engr. Norman Curato is a visionary who saw possibility in uncertainty, a builder who transformed setbacks into momentum, and a leader whose courage continues to inspire a generation of dreamers and doers. His achievements are a testament that world-class innovation can rise from local soil and that Cebu’s resilience, creativity, and spirit can redefine the future of Philippine technology.
His story is not just a startup success. It is a celebration of Cebuano heart. A reminder of what Filipinos can create. And a powerful proof of what can happen when one person dares to begin again.
Without question, Engr. Norman Curato is a deserving Technopreneur of the Year.
