Training programs at the DTI


The training and entrepreneurship development programs of the National SME Agenda seek to provide existing and potential entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and knowledge to become competitive players in the local or global market.

It also seeks to create a pool of SME trainers, advisors and counselors who can effectively assist SMEs nationwide.

Training Programs:

Entrepreneurship & Skills Training for Potential Entrepreneurs

Training on Specific Skills and Knowledge Skills Upgrading for SME Service Providers Business Management Competency Courses Training Agencies:

• Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC)
• Cottage Industry Technology Center (CITC)
• UP Institute for Small-Scale Industries (UP-ISSI)
• Technology Livelihood & Resource Center (TLRC)
• Technical Education & Skills Development Authority (TESDA) DOST
• Technology Training Center, Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI)

1. What are the key training initiatives under the Plan?

The training and entrepreneurship development programs of the National SME Agenda seek to provide existing and potential entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and knowledge to become competitive players in the local or global market. It also seeks to create a pool of SME trainers, advisors and counselors who can effectively assist SMEs nationwide.

2. How can the SMEs avail of training programs? How much are the training courses?

Training programs are provided by both the private and government institutions and are available either for free or for a fee. SMEs must get in touch with the corresponding agency providing the training they would like to attend and register their names. They can check the major daily newspapers for the schedule or call Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) at telephone numbers 834-1344 to 49, or send a fax to 8341343 c/o Ms. Beth Manuel or Narcel. The seminar fees vary depending on the type and duration of the training.
Training programs are also available in the regions and provinces. They can check with the regional and provincial offices of the different agencies for the schedule.
The PTTC has come up with a compendium of training programs from which SMEs can check for the training schedule and contact information.

3. What is business counseling?

This is a service being provided to the SMEs wherein the business counselor explores with the entrepreneur the possible alternative solutions to the business management problems being encountered by the entrepreneur. The final decision, given the alternatives, still rests with the entrepreneur.

4. Where can I obtain a list of business counselors?

Business counselors are assigned to the SME Centers at the regional and provincial offices. SME Centers are the result of a joint undertaking by the private sector and government agencies, as initiated by the Department of Trade and Industry through its Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development (DTI-BSMED). For more information, you may contact either Jerry Clavesillas or Dhel of BSMED at telephone numbers 897-1680 / 897-7596 / 890-4968, fax number 896-7916 or e-mail: bsmed@dti.dti.gov.ph.

5. How can I become a business counselor?

PTTC accredits individuals who successfully complete its Business Management Systems (BMS) course as business counselors. For more details on the BMS course, you may contact Ms. Beth Manuel at 831-9988 or 833-9325.

6. Where can I obtain training on how to prepare a business plan?

The Philippine Trade Training Center of the DTI (DTI-PTTC) provides training on business plan preparation. This is a 3-day program that will enable the participants to come up with a business plan for their enterprise. For the details and schedule you may contact either Ms. Beth Manuel or Narcel through telefax number 831-9988 / 833-9325, trunk line 834-1344 to -49 loc. 320 / 312 / 318, or via e-mail at tbmd@netgazer.com.ph.
Training fee starts at P50. View training schedules here