CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — Marie Claire Bince, the founder of Purple Craft, has transformed her business with the help of government programs designed to support entrepreneurs.
She initially started Purple Craft with a focus on scrapbooking but had to pivot during the pandemic in 2020. She adapted quickly by creating takeout boxes to maintain operations while working from home with limited resources.
“With the lockdown, we became resilient,” Bince shared. “We created takeout boxes. It wasn’t easy, as we had to work from home using only basic tools. Despite these challenges, we found a way to keep the business going.”
In search of ways to strengthen her business, Bince turned to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for guidance. She enrolled in the DTI’s Enhanced Business Learning Session (EBLS) in 2024, a program designed to help entrepreneurs improve their business operations.
EBLS is a three-month course offering one-on-one coaching in areas such as marketing, production, operations, human resources, and financial management. The program, part of DTI Misamis Oriental’s initiative, aims to help businesses in Cagayan de Oro City grow and succeed.
“Joining EBLS helped me improve how I manage my business, especially in handling finances and staffing. I realized I still had a lot to learn and improve,” she said.
Through EBLS, Bince refined her operations, expanded her market reach, and strengthened her branding efforts. Recognizing the value of mentorship, she also joined the DTI’s Kapatid Mentor Me (KMME) Program Batch 18, which supports micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in scaling their businesses.
“Now, joining the KMME program, I’m hoping to grow my business and build more connections,” she added.
With the expertise gained from both programs, Bince is focused on growing Purple Craft CDO and improving business efficiency.
Her success highlights the impact of government initiatives in helping women entrepreneurs navigate challenges and scale their businesses.
“Challenges are part of the journey. Every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow,” she said. (DTI-10/PIA-10)
