Are you a sari-sari store owner looking to elevate your business? TESDA and Coca-Cola have launched Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFE) in Taguig City, aimed at empowering micro-entrepreneurs like you.
A New Beginning for Sari-Sari Stores
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), in partnership with Coca-Cola, recently inaugurated the Centers for Entrepreneurship in Taguig City.
This initiative empowers sari-sari store owners in the region by equipping them with essential skills and resources to thrive.
Objectives of the Centers for Entrepreneurship
The Centers for Entrepreneurship are set to revolutionize how sari-sari store owners operate by:
- Providing entrepreneurship training: The CFE will equip store owners with vital business skills, enhancing their ability to manage and grow their businesses effectively.
- Achieving sustainability: This initiative builds on the STAR (Sari-Sari Store Training and Access Resources) program, ensuring continued support for micro-entrepreneurs.
- Professionalizing the industry: By offering structured training and resources, the CFE aims to professionalize the operation of sari-sari stores, reducing the prevalence of failing or closing businesses.
- Offering digital access: The upgraded iSTAR program allows participants to access training and resources digitally, making it more convenient and accessible.
Expanding Opportunities for Entrepreneurs
TESDA’s Executive Director, Floramel Joy Songsong, highlighted the importance of this initiative:
“Through the establishment of CFE, we aim to achieve sustainability of the STAR program, equipping sari-sari store owners and other micro-entrepreneurs with the skills needed for their businesses to succeed.”
The iSTAR program, an upgraded version of STAR, now accommodates all genders, offering peer mentoring and access to essential business resources.
With the inclusion of digital access, participants can engage with the program from anywhere, at any time.
Partnership and Support
Coca-Cola has been a steadfast partner in both the STAR and iSTAR programs. Their collaboration extends to providing counterpart funding for the development of training modules and the overall running of the program.
This partnership ensures that the CFE initiative remains robust and impactful.
Micro financing institutions (MFIs) also play a critical role in the success of CFE. They assist in establishing and maintaining the facilities, and require their clients to undergo entrepreneurship training before applying for loans.
This integrated approach helps ensure that participants are well-prepared to manage their businesses and finances effectively.
Impact and Future Prospects
The Centers for Entrepreneurship have already been launched in other regions such as Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod, Nueva Ecija, and Naga.
The positive feedback and success stories from these areas underscore the potential impact of the CFE in Taguig.
In Conclusion
The launch of the Centers for Entrepreneurship in Taguig City marks a significant step towards empowering sari-sari store owners with the skills and resources needed to succeed.
By providing comprehensive training, digital access, and professional support, TESDA and Coca-Cola are paving the way for a brighter future for micro-entrepreneurs in the Philippines.
More information is available on the TESDA’s website.
Sources: THX News, TESDA, Business Inquirer, LinkedIn & Philippine News Agency.
