DTI Eyes Bigger Lending Fund to Empower Filipino Entrepreneurs and Launches ?1-B Youth Enterprise Program

Business | Finance Posted on 2026-07-23 02:12:02

MANILA — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is seeking a ₱5-billion increase in the 2027 budget of the Small Business Corporation (SBCorp) to expand financing opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), reinforcing the government's commitment to accelerating entrepreneurship and economic growth across the country.

DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque announced the proposal on the sidelines of the National Exporters' Fair held at SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City, emphasizing that the additional funding will significantly strengthen SBCorp's capacity to provide accessible loans for Filipino entrepreneurs.

According to Roque, the agency received increased funding last year, bringing SBCorp's capitalization to approximately ₱12.9 billion, and is now seeking an additional ₱5 billion in 2027 to meet the growing financing needs of local businesses.

SBCorp continues to play a vital role in supporting Philippine enterprises. As of June 2026, the corporation has processed 94,532 loan applications and released approximately ₱32.45 billion in loans, helping thousands of entrepreneurs establish, sustain, and expand their businesses nationwide.

DTI Launches ₱1-Billion Youth Enterprise Fund

In a major initiative to cultivate the next generation of business leaders, Secretary Roque also officially launched the Youth Enterprise Fund, a ₱1-billion financing program designed to encourage young Filipinos to pursue entrepreneurship.

The program is open to aspiring and existing entrepreneurs aged 18 to 30 years old, offering loans ranging from ₱30,000 to ₱500,000 with repayment terms of up to three years and a grace period of as much as one year.

Applications for the new financing facility will officially open on July 27 through the SBCorp website and the SBCorp Money mobile application.

To ensure broader access to financing and business support, the DTI continues to provide assistance through its 18 regional offices nationwide, where entrepreneurs can receive guidance on loan applications, business development, mentoring, and enterprise growth.

Addressing young entrepreneurs, Roque encouraged them to embrace innovation, overcome challenges, and pursue their business aspirations with confidence.

She emphasized that every successful enterprise begins with a single idea and the courage to take the first step, reminding aspiring business owners that setbacks and early difficulties are valuable learning experiences that contribute to long-term success.

The expansion of SBCorp's lending capacity and the introduction of the Youth Enterprise Fund underscore the government's continued efforts to strengthen the country's MSME sector, generate employment, stimulate innovation, and create greater economic opportunities for hardworking Filipinos.

These initiatives align with the broader vision of building a more inclusive and resilient economy where entrepreneurship serves as a key driver of national development and sustainable growth.

NPO NEWS TEAM | PNA-PR

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