About 35 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Bataan joined a seminar organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) at Lou-is Resort and Restaurant. The event, dubbed “Negosyo Upgrade: Fund Right, Franchise Smart, and Think AI,” aimed to provide entrepreneurs with practical knowledge on financing, franchising, and the use of artificial intelligence to strengthen and expand their businesses.

DTI Bataan Provincial Director Eileen Ocampo said the seminar is aligned with the five-point agenda of DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, focusing on building a competitive and resilient business sector. “For today’s seminar, we zero in on three agenda points: financing, franchising, and digitalization and AI. Our goal is to equip you with practical tools that are not just informative, but actionable,” she emphasized.

Acting Division Chief Teresita Magtanong highlighted the role of partner institutions, including Landbank, SBCorp, and RCBC, in presenting financing services for MSMEs. She also acknowledged the support of members of the MSME Development Council such as PCEDO and DOST in addressing the broader needs of local enterprises.

One participant, Angelina Mae Cubales of Blessed Lads Bakeshop and member of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Bataan, said she found the seminar valuable. “I learned there are many support programs in Bataan and Balanga for small enterprises like ours, and franchising offers great opportunities to expand,” she shared, thanking DTI Bataan for empowering local businesses through initiatives like this.

The post DTI Bataan Hosts Business Seminar for MSMEs appeared first on 1Bataan.