GENERAL SANTOS CITY (PIA) — The United States Agency for International Development through its program USAID Opportunity 2.0 and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) conducted a forum titled “DigiBiz: Redefining MSMEs’ Future by Leveraging Workforce and Digital Technologies.”
The forum held Friday (July 7) in General Santos City brought together around 50 business owners, government officials, and youth to discuss strategies for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) to effectively engage consumers through financial technology (fintech) tools and virtual platforms.
The USAID and the DTI have partnered with fintech providers to ensure that marginalized youth in General Santos City were included in the digitalization of MSMEs.
Leading mobile wallet apps such as GCash and Maya, along with the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and UnionBank of the Philippines, are also collaborating to facilitate the entry of youth and local businesses into the digital economy.
The aim, according to USAID, is to empower MSMEs in the digital world with the help of a young and dynamic workforce.
DTI Gensan caretaker, Chief Trade Industry Development Specialist Eddie de Asis emphasized that Generation Z, often referred to as “digital natives,” are likely to lead the way in embracing digitalization and innovation among GenSan MSMEs. The Opportunity 2.0 program introduces the concept of closely collaborating with and investing in upskilled Gen Z youth, as they possess universal life skills that can enhance business operations.
De Asis also highlighted the valuable contributions of technologically savvy youth in driving business growth.
In line with DTI’s objective of assisting businesses in their digital transformation, USAID said this initiative will have a positive impact on the vital MSMEs in General Santos City, contributing to the local economy. This event also represents the organization’s second DigiBiz forum in the city this year, following the previous one in February that focused on addressing cybersecurity risks faced by emerging businesses.
During the forum, GCash and Maya shared insights on how MSMEs, including youth-led businesses, can streamline transactions through their apps, offering features like instant transfers and virtual cash-ins. BPI and UnionBank provided tips and tricks for businesses to efficiently manage their finances and facilitate virtual transactions.
The forum also included a workshop to assist youth entrepreneurs in implementing digitalization strategies, such as generating QR codes for easy payments and sharing best practices to start and scale their businesses.
The USAID Opportunity 2.0 program operates in 15 cities nationwide and encourages local businesses to engage upskilled out-of-school youth as part of the future workforce. Implementing organizations such as the U.S.-based Education Development Center, Philippine Business for Education, Accenture, Catholic Relief Services, Voluntary Services Overseas, and SEAMEO INNOTECH work to strengthen services for out-of-school youth and connect them with education, employment, and entrepreneurship opportunities by collaborating with over 2,200 employers and at least 50 education or training institutions. (Harlem Jude P. Ferolino, PIA-SarGen)
