Founder and CEO, Kumu
This tech innovator is the founder of Kumu, one of Asia’s top streaming apps
Online networks have become part of social entrepreneurship, building communities among like-minded individuals to improve people's lives. Roland Ros’ Kumu is proof of this. In 2022, the Filipino-made streaming app hit a record 15 million registered users, actively supporting the 10,000 content creators who make their living through the platform. Kumu took the #2 spot that year on the top 10 mobile applications list in the Philippines, overtaking streaming giants Netflix and HBO GO and topped only by Facebook.
As he was the first local tech start-up to receive venture funding from Summit, Ayala's Kickstart Ventures and the SM Group's Gentree Fund, Ros teamed up with Foxmont Capital Partners, Kaya Founders and Endeavor to start the cheekily named Sinigang Valley, which aims to uplift the country's technological ecosystem. By 2023, Ros has invested in Podcast Network Asia, Lista PH, Pickup Coffee, and AcadArena—all run by fellow Gen.T honourees. Ros has also invested in Endeavor Catalyst Fund IV, a USD 292m venture capital fund backed by over 100+ entrepreneurs.
Ros was also the executive producer for Love First Stream, a film directed by Cathy Garcia-Molina that garnered six nominations at the 2021 Metro Manila Film Festival. He also launched the mobile app Penlab, which has kept Philippine comics culture alive in the 21st century.
In 2023, Ros partnered with Ikon Solutions, an overseas recruitment agency, to pioneer an inclusive online space for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to look for job opportunities.
“[I am] dreaming about how to serve the country further through advising and mentoring future entrepreneurs and purpose-driven leaders focused on the Philippines.”
Recognitions
Awards
2020
Endeavor Entrepreneur [of the year]; Endeavor
2006
Certification of Appreciation; City of Los Angeles
2006
Gerald Phillippe Award for Oustanding Community Service; General Electric Corporation
Did You Know?
Roland Ros’ biggest interests in high school circled around social justice. He was fascinated with the civil movements of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.; Ros used to write for the school newspaper and even founded the Junior Statesmen, a lively debate club that tackled society’s most pressing issues.