SLIDE 10 - INTRODUCTION

Good day, everyone! Today, we’ll be talking about the different support services available to Filipino
entrepreneurs.
As shown on this slide, the Philippines offers a wide range of support programs from both the
government and private sectors. These services help businesses in crucial areas such as funding, training,
mentorship, networking, and market expansion—all of which are essential for growth and success in
today’s competitive market.
Through these programs, entrepreneurs gain access to capital, technical skills training, legal guidance,
and digital transformation support, making it easier for them to start, sustain, and scale their businesses.
Now, why does this matter? Supporting entrepreneurs is not just about individual success; it plays a vital
role in economic growth, job creation, and innovation in the country. When businesses thrive, they
contribute to a stronger economy and a more competitive business environment.
In this presentation, we’ll explore the key agencies, programs, and initiatives that are empowering and
sustaining Filipino entrepreneurs—helping them turn their ideas into reality and their businesses into
success stories.
[End of Script]

SLIDE 11 – DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY (DTI)

Continuing from our introduction, one of the key agencies that provide crucial support to Filipino
entrepreneurs is the Department of Trade and Industry, or DTI. DTI plays a vital role in helping Micro,
Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) grow by providing training, funding, and market assistance.
To achieve this, DTI has several key programs designed to assist entrepreneurs:
• Negosyo Centers – These are one-stop shops where aspiring and existing business owners can
get assistance with business registration, mentoring, and advisory services. If you’re starting a
small food business and need help with permits and business strategies, you can visit a Negosyo
Center for guidance.
o Negosyo Centers (DTI)
Established under the Go Negosyo Act (RA 10644), Negosyo Centers are set up by the
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to support MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium
Enterprises). These centers provide business registration assistance, mentorship,
market linkages, financial advisory services, and capacity-building programs to
entrepreneurs.
o Compostela's Negosyo Center: On August 30, 2024, DTI-Cebu inaugurated the 36th
Negosyo Center in Compostela, Cebu. Located inside the Municipal Hall, this center
offers services such as business registration assistance, advisory services, and
development seminars to support local MSMEs. Mayor Felijur Quiño emphasized its role
in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit within the community. [Link]
o Carmen's Negosyo Center: In November 2024, the 37th Negosyo Center was launched
in Carmen, Cebu. This initiative aligns with Carmen's recent achievement of the Seal of
Good Local Governance and aims to bolster local enterprises in tourism, hospitality, and
 artisanal industries. The center complements the newly inaugurated Tourist Rest Area,
enhancing the experience of over 14,000 monthly visitors. [Link]

• Shared Service Facilities (SSF) – This program provides MSMEs with access to equipment and
technology they may not be able to afford on their own. For example, if you run a small clothing
business, you can use SSF’s high-quality sewing machines and textile printing tools to improve
production.
o Shared Service Facilities (SSF)
The Shared Service Facilities (SSF) Program is a DTI initiative that provides MSMEs with
access to modern equipment, technology, and tools to improve productivity and
competitiveness. These facilities are usually placed in cooperatives, organizations, or
local government units to be shared by multiple entrepreneurs.
o CTU's Product Packaging Facility: 𝗗𝗧𝗜-𝟳 𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱
𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗧𝗨-𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗻 on March 4, 2025. The Cebu Technological University
(CTU) received an SSF focused on product packaging, design, and printing, valued at
₱2.5 million. This facility aids MSMEs in improving their product presentation, making
them more competitive in the market. [Link]

• Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso (P3) Program – This is a loan program that offers affordable
financing for small businesses. Instead of borrowing from high-interest lenders, entrepreneurs
can access low-interest loans to fund their operations, whether for purchasing inventory,
expanding their store, or upgrading their equipment.
o The Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso (P3) Program is a microfinancing initiative
launched by the Philippine government to provide affordable and accessible financial
support to micro and small enterprises (MSEs). This program aims to offer an alternative
to informal lending practices, such as the "5-6" scheme, by providing loans with low-
interest rates and flexible terms.
o Key Beneficiaries: Micro and Small Entrepreneurs: The program primarily targets Filipino
microentrepreneurs, including market vendors, sari-sari store owners, and stall owners
who already have existing businesses. These entrepreneurs often struggle to access
traditional financing and are vulnerable to predatory lending practices.
Through these programs, DTI helps reduce barriers for Filipino entrepreneurs, making it easier for them
to start, sustain, and expand their businesses.

CONTINUE – GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE FUNDING PROGRAMS

Now that we’ve seen how DTI, SB Corp., and TESDA help entrepreneurs through financing and skills
training, let’s dive into even more funding opportunities available through both government and private
sector programs!
Government Funding Programs
The government provides additional financial support through two major institutions:
 1. Land Bank of the Philippines – LANDBANK is a government financial institution that provides
accessible credit facilities to MSMEs, aiming to stimulate economic growth and development. As
of June 2023, LANDBANK's outstanding loans to MSMEs reached ₱49.5 billion, benefiting over
6,100 borrowers. [Link]
2. Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) – For those working on startups and innovation
projects, DBP provides financial backing to turn great ideas into successful ventures.
• DBP is a state-owned development bank that offers various financing programs to support
MSMEs. One such initiative is the Sustainable Enterprises for Economic Development
(SEED) Program, which aims to enhance MSMEs' access to credit through simplified loan
procedures. [Link]
• Additionally, DBP has partnered with the Small Business Corporation (SBCorp) to facilitate
the recovery and growth of MSMEs, demonstrating a collaborative approach to support
the sector. [Link]
So whether you’re a small business owner, or an innovator, these banks can be your partners in growth!
Private Sector Funding Programs
Aside from government support, the private sector also plays a crucial role in funding businesses:
1. Go Negosyo – Established in 2005, Go Negosyo is a non-profit organization under the Philippine
Center for Entrepreneurship. Its mission is to promote entrepreneurship among Filipinos as a
means to alleviate poverty and drive economic growth. The organization offers a variety of
programs, including mentorship, training sessions, and networking events, all designed to
empower aspiring and existing entrepreneurs.
• Example: Go Negosyo's Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) Program pairs MSME owners with
seasoned business mentors. This initiative provides guidance on business strategies,
financial management, and market expansion. Many participants have reported
significant business growth and improved operational efficiency after completing the
program.

2. Local Banks & Venture Capitalists – If you need startup loans or investment opportunities, private
banks and investors looking for the next big thing can provide funding in exchange for a stake in
your business.
• Several local banks and venture capital firms in the Philippines offer funding solutions
tailored to the needs of MSMEs:
• Bangko Kabayan: This rural bank focuses on providing financial services to MSMEs. In
2023, it was recognized as the "Best MSMEs Development Bank in the Philippines" at the
International Finance Awards, highlighting its commitment to supporting small
businesses. [Link]
• Venture Capital Firms: Firms such as Kickstart Ventures and Narra Venture Capital invest
in startups and growing businesses, offering not just capital but also strategic guidance to
help enterprises scale.
Kickstart Ventures invested $3 million in PICKUP COFFEE’s $40 million Series A funding
in 2023. This substantial investment enabled PICKUP COFFEE to expand its operations,
increase its number of outlets, and enhance its marketing efforts, thereby making
 specialty coffee more accessible and affordable to a broader audience in the Philippines.
They also provided strategic guidance and industry connections.
This means that whether you apply for a bank loan or pitch your idea to investors, there are multiple
funding pathways to explore.
By tapping into government and private funding, entrepreneurs have more opportunities than ever to
start, grow, and sustain their businesses!
[End of Script]

SLIDE 12 – SMALL BUSINESS CORPORATION (SB CORP.)

Now that we’ve covered DTI’s key programs, let’s talk about Small Business Corporation, or SB Corp.,
another crucial government initiative that supports Filipino entrepreneurs.
SB Corp. is a government financial institution that operates under DTI that specializes in providing
affordable loans to MSMEs. Their goal is to help small businesses grow, expand, or recover from
financial struggles.
They offer two main programs:
1. MSME Loan Programs – These provide low-interest loans to business owners who need funding
for expansion, inventory, or new equipment.
o Business Expansion Loan Program: Launched in January 2025, this initiative supports
newly established businesses or those operating for less than a year. It offers loans
ranging from ₱50,000 to ₱3 million, with flexible payment terms of up to three years. The
loans are interest-free for the first 12 months, followed by a 1% monthly interest rate
based on the diminishing balance for the remaining term. Philstar
2. COVID-19 Response Loans – A special program designed to help businesses affected by the
pandemic get back on their feet.
o In response to the pandemic, SB Corp. introduced the following programs:
CARES Program: Under the Bayanihan 2 Act, SB Corp. received a capital infusion to
provide financing assistance to MSMEs affected by prolonged lockdowns. As of the end
of 2021, SB Corp. had approved ₱8.20 billion in loans to 50,003 MSMEs under the CARES
Program and other lending initiatives targeting pandemic-affected businesses.
[Link]
o CARES for TRAVEL: Specifically designed for tourism-related MSMEs, this program offers
zero-interest, no-collateral loans with a loan term of up to four years, including a one-
year grace period. [Link]
3. Enterprise Rehabilitation Financing (ERF) Program: The ERF provides financial aid to MSMEs
affected by calamities, offering zero interest in the first year and flexible payment terms to
support recovery.
o The ERF Program provides financial assistance to MSMEs affected by calamities, aiding in
their recovery from revenue loss, asset damage, and operational setbacks. Loans under
this program carry an interest rate of 0.5% per month (6% per annum) and can be used
for loan amortizations, inventory replacements, and working capital requirements.
 [Link] These programs demonstrate SB Corp.'s commitment to supporting the
resilience and growth of MSMEs across various sectors in the Philippines.

To put this into perspective—let’s say you own a small bakery, and you need funds to buy new ovens and
expand your store. Instead of turning to high-interest loans, you can apply for SB Corp.’s MSME Loan
Program, giving you access to affordable financing.
Applying is easy! You can submit your application online through SB Corp.’s website or visit a Negosyo
Center for assistance.
With programs like these, the government is making it easier for Filipino entrepreneurs to succeed by
ensuring they have the financial support they need to thrive.
[End of Script]

SLIDE 13 – TESDA
Now that we’ve discussed how DTI and SB Corp. provide financial support, let’s talk about another
essential factor in business success—skills development!
This is where TESDA, or the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, plays a vital role.
TESDA offers free or affordable training to help entrepreneurs develop skills in food processing, digital
marketing, business management, and more!
Through its training centers and online learning platform, TESDA ensures that aspiring and existing
business owners are equipped with the right knowledge and hands-on skills to start and grow their
businesses.
TESDA provides three main programs for entrepreneurs:
1. Entrepreneurial Training Courses – These free training programs cover essential business and
technical skills, such as financial literacy, business management, and product development.
o Example: TESDA's Bread and Pastry Production NC II helps aspiring bakers start their own
bakery businesses.
2. TESDA Online Program (TOP) – A convenient e-learning platform that allows entrepreneurs to
take business-related courses anytime, anywhere.
o Example: Courses like "Managing Your Business" and "Digital Marketing" help small
business owners improve operations and sales strategies.
3. Scholarships and Grants – Additional financial support for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to
enhance their skills
• Example: The Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) helps individuals gain
industry-relevant skills, allowing them to launch small businesses in fields like welding,
cosmetology, or food processing..
Imagine you want to start a small catering business but don’t have formal training in cooking or food
safety. With TESDA’s programs, you can enroll in culinary training courses for free or at a minimal cost.
Not only do you learn the necessary skills, but you also increase your chances of success as an
entrepreneur!
By combining financial support from DTI and SB Corp. with skills training from TESDA, Filipino
entrepreneurs have everything they need to turn their business dreams into reality!
[End of Script]

SLIDE 14 – BUSINESS REGISTRATION AND REGULATORY SUPPORT and MARKET EXPANSION AND
EXPORT ASSISTANCE

A. Business Registration and Regulatory Support

1. Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)
The BIR is responsible for tax administration in the Philippines. Entrepreneurs must register their
businesses with the BIR to obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) and ensure compliance with tax
obligations.
• Ex: After registering a business name with the DTI, an entrepreneur must proceed to the
BIR to register for taxation purposes, which is a crucial step in legitimizing the business.
[Link]
2. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) & Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
The SEC oversees the registration and regulation of corporations and partnerships, while the DTI handles
the registration of sole proprietorships. Proper registration with these agencies grants legal recognition
and ensures compliance with Philippine laws.
• Ex: A group planning to establish a corporation must register with the SEC to acquire legal
personality. This process includes submitting the Articles of Incorporation and other
required documents. [Link]
Conversely, a sole proprietor would register their business name with the DTI to secure legal recognition
and the right to use the business name. [Link]
B. Market Expansion and Export Assistance
1. Philippine Exporters Confederation (PHILEXPORT)
PHILEXPORT is a leading umbrella organization of Philippine exporters, dedicated to promoting and
developing the country's export industry. It offers services such as export facilitation, training, and
advocacy to help businesses penetrate global markets.

• Ex: A local handicrafts manufacturer aiming to export products can become a PHILEXPORT
member to access training on international trade standards and participate in overseas
trade fairs. Membership requirements include a BIR Certificate of Registration, Mayor's
Permit, and product photos or brochures. [Link]
2. Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) One Town, One Product (OTOP) Program
The OTOP program is an initiative by the DTI to promote goods and products rooted in local culture,
community resource, creativity, connection, and competitive advantage. It assists micro, small, and
medium enterprises (MSMEs) in enhancing their products and reaching wider markets.
 • Ex: A small-scale producer of traditional Filipino snacks from a particular town can receive
assistance through OTOP to improve packaging, obtain necessary certifications, and
market products both locally and internationally.
By leveraging these support services, Filipino entrepreneurs can effectively navigate regulatory
requirements and expand their market reach, both locally and internationally.
[End of Script]

before we proceed to the next slide, let me ask you a question. you can answer in the chatbox, okay? so
diba nakahibaw naman ta sa mga government and private sectors nga pwede maka help sa atoa para ma
realize atong mga business ideas no? so now if you could…..

Interactive Q&A: Let’s Talk! 💬

1. If you could pitch a business idea to an investor right now, what would it be?
it looks like everyone already answered, so may I have 1 volunteer to share his/her business idea?
thankyou mr. __, so now while I read your answers here, let me pass the virtual floor to ms. Sheila
mae bejoc to continue.
______________________________________________________________________________
Final Takeaway:
"Knowing the right support service can make or break a business. Use these resources to your
advantage!"