The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Ilocos Norte announced Thursday the opening of a free online business mentorship program for registered business owners in the province.

The Kapatid Mentor Me Program (KMMe), a flagship DTI initiative under the Negosyo-Kapatid Project, is open to individuals at least 18 years old who manage a team or have operated a business for at least one year.

Maricor Racela, senior trade industry development specialist and trade promotions officer of DTI-Ilocos Norte, said the program consists of 10 modules providing weekly learning sessions and guidance from experienced business mentors.

“The program is designed to empower MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) by providing access to the 3Ms —Mentorship, Money, and Market. It aims to help entrepreneurs strengthen their operation, improve financial management, enhance marketing strategies, and grow their business sustainably,” DTI said in a statement.

Racela said applications for the 2026 batch are now open, with the first batch accepting registrations until March 13. Applicants will undergo screening and evaluation. Interested parties may register at https://tinyurl.com/R1-KMME-MME-Registration.

The program follows a “big brother-small brother” concept, allowing mentees to learn strategies on marketing, finance, human resources, and operations management. On the 11th week, mentees present their business development plans before graduating.

Hundreds of business owners have graduated from the program since its 2017 launch in the province.

Mary Grace Lamug, a 2025 KMME graduate and co-owner of Enrique’s Great Mulberry Farm in Bacarra, shared her experience: “Through KMMe, I developed an entrepreneurial mindset and gained valuable knowledge in marketing, product development, financial management, and business planning. The mentoring sessions guided me in improving our operations, strengthening our branding, and making better business decisions.” (PNA)