The newly opened Negosyo Center here is expected to provide greater support to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by bringing essential business services and assistance closer to them.

Located on the lower ground floor of City Hall, the center serves as a one-stop shop where aspiring and established entrepreneurs can access guidance on registration, development, financing, and other government programs designed to boost MSME growth.

“The center is a big help to promote and market my products. I hope it will last to cater to the needs of MSMEs like us,” Sarah Dabucon, a rice coffee manufacturer in Barangay 54 Lagui Sail, told the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday.

Some of her products are on display at the Negosyo Center, the 20th of its kind in the province.

For many small entrepreneurs like Dabucon, navigating government requirements and finding the right assistance can be challenging.

According to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Negosyo Center helps address this gap by providing accessible information and connecting MSMEs with appropriate government programs and services.

“The establishment of the Negosyo Center underscores the continuing partnership between DTI and the city government of Laoag in promoting entrepreneurship, facilitating business development, and creating a more enabling environment for MSMEs,” Ilocos Norte provincial director Amelia Galvez said.

Galvez underscored the vital role of MSMEs in the local economy, providing jobs and income to families while contributing to economic activity in communities.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, the center serves as a launchpad for transforming innovative concepts into viable enterprises.

While small businesses often struggle with capital, market access, digitalization, business skills and regulatory compliance, the Negosyo Center provides the necessary guidance and referrals to overcome these hurdles. It also helps local firms scale and explore opportunities beyond their immediate markets.

Through entrepreneurship programs, mentoring, training and market linkage initiatives, MSMEs can acquire the essential tools to optimize their products, services and operations.

“Thanks to DTI and other government agencies for extending assistance to MSMEs. We are very grateful for giving us a platform as we continue to innovate, improve, and market our products,” Cathy Baided, president of the Cataban Water Hyacinth Weavers Association, said in an interview. (PNA)