The Ilocos Norte government on Wednesday said it will be coming out with a business stimulus package for micro-enterprises suffering from financial distress due to economic challenges, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events.

Elma Gabriel, head of the local government’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Office, said they have set aside around PHP3 million to provide a PHP5,000 worth of livelihood kit to eligible small business owners in financial distress.

Interested applicants may submit their application forms at the Ilocos Norte MSME Incubation Center located at the Tabacalera building starting Sept. 14 until Sept. 29, 2023.

Applicants eligible for the grant are micro businesses owned by women, poverty-stricken individuals who are struggling to meet basic needs, elderly, and physically challenged individuals.

The program will also prioritize small-scale businesses that are engaged in manufacturing, handicrafts, retailers, and services. These businesses must also be operating in the province and the owner should be a bonafide resident of Ilocos Norte.

Inclusive of the business stimulus package for the target recipients are free training and capacity-building activities to enhance their skills and productivity in operating a business of their own, Gabriel said.

MSMEs that previously availed of the sari-sari store assistance program last year will no longer be accommodated to give more opportunities to other applicants, she said. (PNA)