CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-7) has introduced 48 micro-small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) to join the roster of participants for the 2024 Kapatid Mentor Me - Money Market Encounter (KMME-MME) Online program in Central Visayas.
This follows the successful launch of the online training program by DTI-7 in partnership with the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship - Go Negosyo last April 5, 2024.
According to DTI undersecretary Ma. Cristina Roque, KMME aims to empower participants by offering valuable guidance, financial resources, and market insights.
“The program has served as a beacon of hope for entrepreneurs nationwide, providing invaluable support to countless businesses as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship," Roque said, expressing her commitment to spearhead programs and initiatives that advance MSMEs in the Philippines.
“I firmly believe that knowledge is power; the more we learn, the stronger we become," she added.
The 'mentees' will undergo 10 business modules and coaching sessions via the Zoom platform, and will present a Business Improvement Plan (BIP) to an expanded panel of evaluators, including representatives from banks, online market platforms, and other business support organizations.
DTI-7 regional director Maria Elena Arbon also announced that the office will plan a face-to-face networking event for the program's mentees and mentors. Among the 48 mentees, 14 are from Bohol, 14 from Cebu, 14 from Negros Oriental, and 6 from Siquijor.
This multi-sectoral batch includes participants from various sectors such as processed food, food service, coffee, retail, creatives, health and wellness, and other services. In total, DTI-7 has produced 905 KMME graduates since the program's inception in 2016. .