The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has taken another significant step in advancing the digital transformation of Filipino Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through a new partnership with Converge ICT Solutions Inc. formalized with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
As part of DTI’s broader push to equip MSMEs for the digital economy, the partnership with Converge will support the Department’s programs by expanding MSMEs’ access to reliable connectivity, digital onboarding assistance, and capacity-building initiatives.
These efforts also reinforce DTI’s ongoing work in nurturing emerging startup communities and helping entrepreneurs explore technologies such as e-commerce automation, cloud solutions, and responsible use of AI tools to improve business efficiency.
Comprising 99.6% of all businesses in the country, MSMEs continue to face challenges in adopting digital solutions. With this collaboration, DTI aims to accelerate their digital readiness and competitiveness.
Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista, Supervising Head of the DTI-Competitiveness and Innovation Group, highlighted the importance of strengthening MSME access to digital tools.
“Through this initiative, we can give our entrepreneurs not just access to tools but a fair chance to compete and succeed in the global market.”
“Our goal is to push for MSMEs to embrace technology and digitalization, and we believe that this partnership with Converge strengthens our push. Through this initiative, we can give our entrepreneurs not just access to tools but a fair chance to compete and succeed in the global market,” Bautista said.
She further emphasized the role of digital transformation in sustaining MSME competitiveness.
“The DTI believes that digitalization of our MSMEs is no longer optional but absolutely essential in today’s highly digital business environment,” Bautista added.
Under the MOU, Converge will complement DTI programs by offering connectivity packages and digital solutions for MSMEs participating in DTI-led digitalization and innovation initiatives, including those focused on helping startups and traditional enterprises adopt digital tools, AI-supported platforms, and other emerging technologies.
Converge Senior Vice President for SME Group Dindo Marzan expressed the company’s support for DTI’s efforts.
“Every business relies not only on effective and efficient connectivity but also on easy-to-use and practical digital solutions.”
“Every business relies not only on effective and efficient connectivity but also on easy-to-use and practical digital solutions. We are honored to support the DTI in ensuring that MSMEs—wherever they are—gain access to the technology and assistance they need to grow sustainably,” Marzan said.
The partnership forms part of DTI’s broader effort to build an inclusive digital ecosystem, promote innovation and competitiveness, and ensure that no Filipino entrepreneur is left behind—whether they are a traditional MSME adapting to digital tools or a startup innovating with next-generation technologies.
