Local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are poised to modernize and enhance their performance through the introduction of the Digital Export Enablement Programme (DEEP), an educational initiative designed to empower entrepreneurs with the skills to leverage Google tools for their businesses.
Google Philippines has joined forces with the Department of Trade and Industry, the International Trade Centre (ITC), and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) to bring DEEP to life. During this two-day workshop, participating entrepreneurs received training on how to effectively utilize Google’s Business Profile feature, along with other crucial digital export-related skills and tools.
By combining the resources and expertise of these three organizations, DEEP aims to facilitate a unique cross-border entrepreneurial journey for small businesses across Southeast Asia. The program will continue to guide MSMEs through various aspects of international trade, from identifying and comparing trade opportunities, understanding market access conditions, exploring trade finance options and contract governance through Incoterms, to honing their digital marketing skills and successfully expanding their business through e-commerce channels.
Bernadette Nacario, Country Director of Google Philippines, emphasized the critical role MSMEs play in the economy, constituting nearly 99% of all businesses. She stated, “MSMEs are the beating heart of the economy. They make up nearly 99% of all businesses, and their digitization promises great benefits for the country’s digital future and equitable growth. Together with our partners from across sectors, Google is committed to helping small business owners succeed by equipping them with the right digital tools and opportunities such as the DEEP program.”
Jean Pacheco, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Digital Philippines and Ecommerce Lead, expressed DTI’s support for DEEP and highlighted its potential to raise awareness of the free digital tools available to MSMEs for business growth. She added, “We look forward to working closely with Google and other stakeholders to help more MSMEs succeed.”
DEEP is the latest addition to Google’s ongoing efforts to support Filipino MSMEs through training and digital tools. These initiatives include the Google Business Profile, which enhances business visibility; Grow With Google, an educational program focused on essential skills for success; and Google Market Finder, which assists entrepreneurs in expanding internationally.
Google’s commitment to digitizing MSMEs is part of its broader mission to contribute to the development of a Digital Philippines. In the past year, the company, in partnership with organizations like the DTI, successfully trained over 100,000 MSME owners and employees in the country through its digital skilling program, MSME Caravan.
Entrepreneurs and business owners eager to elevate their success can begin their journey by visiting the Google Business website today.
