THE Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (Setup) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) continues to drive economic growth and innovation among micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Cebu and Central Visayas with new initiatives set for 2025.
Since its launch in 2002, Setup has provided vital support to 626 MSMEs in Central Visayas, investing over P567 million in technology upgrading, product testing, packaging improvements and consultancy services.
In 2024 alone, 44 MSMEs in Cebu received P46 million in funding, enhancing productivity and market competitiveness across various industries.
For 2025, Tristan Abando, DOST 7 assistant regional director for technical operations, said the agency is advancing Setup 4.0, aligning with Industry 4.0 trends to help MSMEs digitize operations, automate processes and adopt sustainable solutions.
Key initiatives for Setup 4.0 include supporting MSMEs in integrating artificial intelligence-driven automation, 3D printing and smart manufacturing technologies as well as encouraging solar-powered production equipment and eco-friendly packaging innovations.
Setup 4.0 underscores the expansion of smarter enterprises that focus on socially responsive, market-oriented, agile, resilient, technology-intensive, environment-friendly and resource-efficient businesses. The enhanced program also aims to extend stronger MSME support through financial accessibility, technical training and capacity-building programs.
Partnerships
To ensure more businesses benefit from Setup, Abando said the DOST is strengthening partnerships with local government units, industry groups and academic institutions while ramping up information campaigns to boost awareness and accessibility.
Since 2021, Setup has directly contributed to 801 new jobs and P1.3 billion in gross sales for assisted MSMEs, underscoring its impact on Cebu’s economic landscape.
The program has significantly contributed to Cebu’s top industries by providing cutting-edge technologies and technical support. The food processing sector emerged as the biggest beneficiary, with P186.7 million invested across 253 MSMEs, followed by the metals and engineering industry with P89.6 million in assistance. Other key sectors benefiting from the program include furniture, agribusiness, health and wellness, ICT and packaging.
Abando said Setup has introduced critical innovations to help MSMEs modernize and remain competitive through manufacturing upgrades, food processing improvements, digital solutions, agri-based technologies and renewable energy. / KOC