The Iloilo City government will establish a start-up center for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in partnership with the private sector and national government agencies to help entrepreneurs develop and grow their businesses.

The initiative, which stemmed from the 1st Iloilo City MSME Summit last month, will provide a permanent hub for innovation, collaboration and mentoring. The center will be located at Festive Walk Mall in the Mandurriao district.

Mayor Raisa Treñas said Friday the facility will support aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly graduates of school-based entrepreneurship programs, by providing a co-working space, meeting venue and access to business development support.

“In the coming months, we will finalize our start-up center in partnership with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT),” Treñas said in a video message.

PCCI Western Visayas Gov. Fulbert Woo welcomed the initiative, saying it strengthens collaboration among government, industry and academe.

“The center can serve as a stepping stone for innovators and start-ups by giving them space to develop their ideas and connect with industry partners,” Woo said in a phone interview.

He said the facility could help entrepreneurs develop solutions to business challenges, such as digital systems, programming and other innovations, while providing an alternative support venue for those who are unable to access technology business incubators operated by state universities and colleges.

Woo added that the chamber welcomes the city’s involvement in expanding support for MSMEs alongside existing government programs. (PNA)