BPI's business development program helps start-up businesses

“We have witnessed the entrepreneurs’ determination through the program, and we’re excited to see how they will scale their businesses in the future. It has been an honor to be part of their journey. BPI Foundation is committed to empowering small enterprises, and we believe that with the right support, these entrepreneurs can significantly contribute to economic growth and financial inclusion. We look forward to seeing their continued success as they transform their visions into reality.” ~Carmina Marquez, BPIF Executive Director

Corinthian Anne Valenton, owner of Corrsy's Kitchen, offers Cheese Pimiento spread and Langka Calamansi jam. Corrsy’s Kitchen is one of the winners of SEAL-SEGA.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), through its social development arm, BPI Foundation (BPIF), in collaboration with Bayan Academy, recently announced the top 40 small and 20 nano enterprises from this year's Small Enterprise Acceleration Lab (SEAL) programme.

The SEAL Project Series, which launched in 2022, was created to not only support but also empower micro and nano enterprises, as well as aspiring entrepreneurs. SEAL has become a beacon of hope for small business owners looking to scale and sustain their operations by providing strategic interventions and hands-on guidance.

Over 200 entrepreneurs received invaluable training in product and service development, operations optimization, and marketing through the SEAL-Small Enterprise Growth Agenda (SEAL-SEGA) over the course of the previous year. More than just lessons, the program provided tailored solutions to the specific challenges these businesses faced. Top-performing businesses were not only given knowledge, but also cash grants and expert mentorship to help them grow.

This year, BPIF recognized 40 businesses that demonstrated exceptional potential, awarding them cash grants ranging from Php80,000 to Php120,000. These businesses, now equipped to carry out their strategic plans, will continue to benefit from ongoing mentoring.

OhMi Krafts, one of the winners of SEAL-BEGIN, customizes souvenirs from polymer clays, beads, wood, and succulents.

This year, BPIF also launched a new track known as the SEAL-Business Education and Growth Initiative for Nano-entrepreneurs (SEAL-BEGIN). SEAL-BEGIN provided basic training and resources to aspiring entrepreneurs, with an emphasis on integrating digital-age opportunities.

SEAL-BEGIN had over 240 registrants, and 20 nano-enterprises were recognized for their promising potential and innovative ideas. Participants received entrepreneurial training and were encouraged to use local and government resources to grow their businesses.

Since its inception, the SEAL program series has supported numerous businesses, disbursing a significant amount of cash grants. The program is fostering a vibrant and innovative entrepreneurial ecosystem across the country by providing comprehensive training, mentorship, and financial aid.