DTI partners with Singapore-based firm, Globe for MSME online courses

MANILA, Philippines — The training arm of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has partnered with Singapore-based Proxtera and Globe Philippines to offer online courses to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to help them upgrade their skills in the digital economy.

In a statement yesterday, Philippine Trade Training Center-Global MSME Academy (PTTC-GMEA) Nelly Nita Dillera emphasized the need to help MSMEs be the best that they can be as they comprise 99.5 percent of businesses in the country.

“By unleashing their potential – especially in the age of digital and crossborder economy – and by teaching them how to innovate, we are also teaching them how to become financially resilient,” Dillera said.

“We are fortunate that through this partnership, Proxtera shall offer the SME Financial Empowerment (SMEFE) online training programs that cover foundational and global literacy courses, cross-border financial services, green financing for SMEs which even have Filipino (audio) translations. Globe Philippines shall fund the enrollment of 30 women SMEs screened by the PTTC in celebration of the Women’s Month,” she said.

The DTI said the SMEFE program mobile app would be launched on March 31.

The SME Financial Empowerment Program is a comprehensive and globally focused initiative by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), International Finance Corp. (IFC), and United Nations Development Program (UNDP) which aims to promote foundational literacy and cross-border financial services relevant to SMEs.

“Through PTTC-GMEA’s assistance, the SFE program in the Philippines is providing three courses tailored to MSMEs looking to expand their businesses and leverage digital marketplaces and network effects,” the DTI said.

It said these courses provide valuable insights on financial literacy and decision-making skills, enabling MSMEs to make informed choices and achieve their business goals.

The Foundational Financial Literacy course covers fundamental financial concepts and the importance of financial discipline, equipping learners with the tools they need to effectively manage their finances. It also introduces learners to starter financial service options.

In contrast, the Global Financial Literacy Course goes beyond the basics, offering guidance on broadening one’s business to new markets, adopting novel digital financing options, and utilizing digital networks. This course is perfect for SMEs looking to expand their reach and capitalize on new opportunities, according to the DTI.

The SFE program has added a new course, particularly green financing for SMEs, which emphasizes the importance of sustainable development.

“This course is designed to help SMEs understand green financing and traditional financing and offers tools and options for incorporating green financing into their business operations,”the DTI said.

To begin the courses offered by the SFE program, individuals can visit smefe.org, which is accessible via the web or can be downloaded as an app for Android and iOS devices.

After visiting the website or downloading the app, users can register for the course on the dashboard and begin by watching the videos and answering questions related to the course material. Upon completing the course, individuals will receive a verifiable certificate immediately.