A group of Filipino college students has created iSkolar, an innovative scholarship platform powered by artificial intelligence and blockchain technology. The platform aims to simplify the complex process of securing educational funding, a challenge many students face.
iSkolar recently secured a Top 10 position in the Project RISE startup competition, earning a cash prize of ₱100,000. The initiative addresses the fragmented and tedious scholarship application process prevalent in the Philippines.
All-Student Founding Team
The iSkolar project is led by an all-student team comprising Justin Luzano (Founder and CEO), Adam Ruadilla (Co-Founder and COO), and Louigie Caminoy (Co-Founder and CTO). Their goal is to create a centralized platform where students can easily browse scholarship opportunities, submit applications, and track their progress.
“We are building iSkolar because too many students are forced to work harder than necessary just to find support that should already be within reach,” said Luzano.
Justin Luzano
Leveraging Blockchain and AI
iSkolar is designed to enhance the scholarship distribution process. It employs blockchain technology for secure fund disbursements and on-chain verification of student credentials. This allows sponsors to verify documents without needing to contact educational institutions directly.
Additionally, the platform uses AI to match applicants with suitable scholarship programs and assist sponsors in managing their initiatives.
Current Development and Future Plans
Currently in its beta phase, iSkolar is accessible to early users at iskolar.io. The development team is actively testing core features.
Looking ahead, the team plans to pilot institutional integrations in the third quarter of 2026, collaborating with the University of Makati and student organizations at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines and Taguig City University.
The founders aim for a broader rollout by the end of 2026, aspiring to connect more students with vital educational funding opportunities.