More than 700 entrepreneurs gathered at the launch of the Mentor ME Program held at the Marco Polo Hotel in Davao City recently.
The Mentor ME program, otherwise known as the Kapatid mechanism — is jointly organized by the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship, Inc. – Go Negosyo and the Department of Trade and Industry.
The concept is considered a tool for the successful growth of start-up entrepreneurs who are just starting to survive in business. Many entrepreneurs lacking in experience can be greatly helped with experienced mentors guiding and supporting them through initial hurdles.
President Rodrigo Duterte, who graced the launch, was introduced as “Kuya Rody” or the big brother to the whole entrepreneurship community.
The President, specifically, gave advice to one of the entrepreneurs present, Imelda Basilan, a maruya vendor for 15 years who has a puesto near the Davao City Hall. Maruya is commonly known as a favourite snack food of the President.
The President suggested that Basilan try venturing into other products and businesses and promised assistance if she would comply and diversify. He also said Basilan can be helped by other businesses – large and small –- in her efforts to grow in her business.
Jose Concepcion of the PCEI explained that the Kapatid mechanism is designed to link the micro and small business community with the big brothers in industy.
Trade and Industry Secretary Manolo Lopez said that the program is expected to empower MSMEfor greater competitiveness and sustainability.
After 11 sessions in the Mentor program, the participant micro entrepreneurs are expected to be able to upgrade their status to small or even medium-scale.
The pilot areas for the initial implementation of the progam are Davao Cty, Baguio, Iloilo, Cebu, Tacloban, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, and General Santos City.
Photo credits: www.ibtimes.ph/pldt-dti-go-negosyo-launch-kapatid-program