The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) 1 (Ilocos Norte) is calling on business owners to take advantage of a free mentorship program now available online.

Maricor Racela, senior trade industry development specialist and trade promotions officer at DTI-1, said Tuesday that registration for the Kapatid Mentor Me Program (KMME) is now open, with 12 limited slots available.

The KMME program, a part of the Negosyo-Kapatid Project, guides micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to scale up through 10 weeks of consultations, coaching, and mentoring with experts, helping them become globally competitive.

In an interview, former mentee Grace Rabang, owner of the Doña Remedios Diner in this city, said the KMME program enhanced her entrepreneurial mindset and helped her gain valuable networking opportunities.

“It improved my critical thinking skills, helping me solve business problems. It also offered insights into leadership styles and provided essential knowledge of statutory laws for running a business successfully,” she said.

Farmer-leader Wilfredo Valdez of Barangay Nalvo, Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte also acknowledged the big impact of the program on his entrepreneurial journey.

“Through mentorship and guidance, I gained valuable knowledge in marketing, product development, and effective strategies. It is a powerful tool I use every day to strengthen and grow my business,” said Valdez, founder of Pasuquin Onion Growers Cooperative.

To date, the growing cooperative, which began with just 20 members, is now supplying onions to one of the country’s largest food chains. They have also expanded their reach and are now exporting their products internationally.

With limited knowledge of running a business, Aldrich Gabriel Limos, a 2022 KMME graduate, said the program equipped him with the skills to properly manage and organize Masagana EcoFarms, the family business that began in 2018.

This family-owned business in Barangay Cabungaan North in this city emphasizes natural farming methods.

“I am truly grateful because it helped me build a stronger brand reputation and earned customer loyalty,” he said.

Open to those with at least a year of business operations, DTI’s online mentorship program has produced hundreds of empowered local entrepreneurs in the province.

Most entrepreneurs participate in government-organized trade fairs, including the Kadiwa ng Pangulo program, held twice a month at the Ilocos Norte Capitol grounds. Some have also expanded their market reach here and abroad. (PNA)