Chemonics and Talino Venture Studios have formed a strategic partnership to build market-ready, inclusive innovations that address some of the world’s most pressing challenges—from financial exclusion to digital infrastructure gaps. This partnership is rooted in a shared vision: to create sustainable, scalable financial solutions that empower underserved communities through technology.
Chemonics, a global leader in sustainable development, has decades of experience solving complex, systemic problems across sectors. With a deep understanding of local markets, advanced technology applications, and private-sector engagement, Chemonics drives transformation at scale. Talino, an award-winning global venture studio, brings a track record of launching mission-driven startups that tackle critical barriers in access to finance, insurance, and digital services.
“We’re on the verge of something extraordinary,” said Winston Damarillo, CEO of Talino. “Our partnership with Chemonics signifies a pivotal moment in sustainable innovation. With a history of successful transformations and ventures and a commitment to people-first innovation, we’re devoted to closing the financial inclusion gap for underserved individuals and communities in emerging nations worldwide.”
This collaboration is not about pilot projects or short-term solutions—it’s about building long-term, inclusive systems that scale. Talino Venture Studios, known for its extensive experience in venture building and deep expertise in inclusive fintech, has consistently propelled industry transformation through dynamic collaborations with innovative fintech companies such as BayaniPay, Asenso, Earnie, and Saphron. Talino’s steadfast dedication to driving meaningful change has positioned these startups as leaders in the industry.
“We believe inclusive innovation is key to solving the world’s toughest challenges,” said Jamey Butcher, CEO of Chemonics. “Our work with Talino allows us to take sustainable, tech-enabled solutions further, faster—combining strong local leadership with scalable infrastructure to create lasting impact.”
Together, Chemonics and Talino are creating a new model for private-sector partnership in the global impact space—where mission alignment meets market-driven growth, and where innovation is guided by both equity and scale.
Spotlight: Higala – A New Era in Financial Inclusion
A prime example of this partnership is Higala, an inclusive instant payment system (IIPS) launched in April 2025 in Manila. Built using open-source technology and designed to connect rural banks to a modern payment network, Higala is poised to reach up to 50 million unbanked Filipinos by enabling real-time, affordable digital transactions. By lowering transaction costs by up to 60% and prioritizing local leadership and innovation, Higala embodies Chemonics and Talino’s joint commitment to scalable, sustainable solutions that expand financial access and accelerate local economic growth. Learn more about Higala here.
