THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently launched the latest batch of beneficiaries under the Kapatid Mentor Me program in the province.
A total of 20 Kapampangan micro entrepreneurs were listed as the third batch of the program’s mentees. They include 14 from the processed food industry, four from gifts, decor and houseware, and two in trading.
DTI-Central Luzon Assistant Secretary Blesila Lantayona said the primary objective of the program is to inculcate all the lessons in the hearts of micro, small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) and be able to make a difference despite the agency’s limited budget.
“Our objective is to see how many among our graduates have scaled up because this will spell the difference and determine whether or not our program is successful,” Lantayona said.
The official added that in joining the program, the best motivation should not be competition alone, but the willingness of MSMEs to scale up their businesses.
“Even if the government needs to spend approximately P25,000 per mentee for the entire duration of the program, as long as they get to improve and expand their businesses, then we can say our program is relevant,” she added.
DTI Regional Director Judith Angeles said the program targets MSMEs because their improvement is easier to measure and because they are the ones who need the most assistance.
She also urged the mentees to complete all the mentoring sessions and give their best during the presentation of their respective business improvement plans.