The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE) launched the DTI-KAPATID Mentor ME (KMME) Program in 2016.
This program helps micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in the Philippines grow and thrive.
It encompasses three key components aimed at providing comprehensive support to entrepreneurs.
Significance of the Program
The DTI-KAPATID Mentor ME (KMME) Program holds significant importance for the Philippine economy, particularly for the growth and sustainability of micro and small enterprises (MSEs).
MSEs are foundational to the country’s economic landscape, comprising 99.5% of all enterprises and contributing around 63.2% of total employment, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). Despite their numbers, MSEs often face substantial challenges, including limited access to capital, markets, and advanced business knowledge.
The KMME Program addresses these challenges through its comprehensive approach, fostering a more inclusive economic environment.
Since its launch in 2016, the program has benefited over 36,500 MSEs, certified 802 mentors, and graduated 12,176 mentees who are now better equipped to scale their businesses.
A 2022 study highlighted that 74.75% of KMME mentee graduates reported improved entrepreneurial status, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in enhancing operations, profitability, and market reach.
In 2023, the program recorded a 98% completion rate among 98 mentees enrolled in the Cordillera Administrative Region.
These statistics underscore the KMME Program’s significance in empowering Filipino entrepreneurs, driving economic activity, and creating employment opportunities across the country.
Key Components
The DTI-KAPATID Mentor ME (KMME) Program empowers micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in the Philippines through comprehensive support and resources.
The program is built on three key components that aim to foster business growth, enhance operational capabilities, and integrate small enterprises into larger economic ecosystems.
1. Mentor ME Program
The Mentor ME (Micro Entrepreneurs) Program is a core component of the DTI-KAPATID.
It uses a coaching and mentoring approach where large corporations share their expertise with MSEs.
The primary objectives of the Mentor ME Program are to help entrepreneurs scale up their businesses, spur economic activity, and create employment opportunities.
Mentor ME Seminars
The Mentor ME Program offers seminars that cover various entrepreneurship concepts, helping owners develop the necessary skills and acumen for business growth.
The seminars are structured into three main modules:
- The Entrepreneur: Focuses on the mindset and values of successful entrepreneurs.
- The Enterprise: A comprehensive module covering product development, marketing, operations management, accounting, taxation, finance, and legal obligations.
- Sustaining the Enterprise: Addresses sustainability through HR management, supply chain and value chain management, succession planning, and business plan development.
2. Adopt-an-SSF Program
The Adopt-an-SSF (Shared Service Facility) Program is another important component of the DTI-KAPATID.
This program provides MSEs with access to shared facilities in their communities, enabling them to improve their production processes and increase efficiency.
By adopting SSFs, micro-entrepreneurs can leverage advanced equipment and technology without the significant financial burden of purchasing their own.
3. Inclusive Business Model
The Inclusive Business (IB) model links MSEs to the value chains of larger companies.
This integration helps small enterprises expand their market reach and enhances their capacity to meet larger demands.
The IB model fosters a collaborative environment where both large corporations and MSEs benefit from shared growth opportunities.
KMME Online
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted businesses worldwide.
To address this challenge, the KMME Program adapted by transitioning to an online format known as KMME-MME Online.
This digital version ascertains that entrepreneurs continue to receive mentorship, access to financing, and market linkages despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic.
Key Features of KMME-MME Online
- Virtual Mentorship: The program’s 10 modules are delivered through webinars and canned lectures via the Zoom app.
- Money Market Encounter (MME): Mentees present their Business Improvement Plans (BIPs) to a panel of evaluators from banks, online marketplaces, and entrepreneur support organizations.
- Coaching Sessions: Additional coaching helps mentees draft their BIPs, improve presentation skills, and develop their capacity to access capital and markets.
Objectives of KMME-MME Online
- Provide a platform for entrepreneurs to learn from mentors online.
- Enable capacity building using the KMME modules via webinars.
- Offer mentorship to waitlisted MSEs across regions.
- Inspire MSEs to adapt their strategies in response to the new normal entrepreneurial landscape.
Impact and Reach
Since its inception, the KMME Program has reached all regions and 101 provinces/cities in the Philippines.
It has benefited over 36,500 MSMEs, certified 802 mentors, and graduated 12,176 mentees who are now scaling up their businesses with the guidance of their mentors.
Benefits of the Mentor ME Program
Participating in the Mentor ME Program offers numerous benefits:
- Enhanced Business Management Skills: The program covers essential business topics to improve participants’ skills and knowledge.
- Access to Mentorship: Entrepreneurs receive guidance from experienced business leaders, helping them apply lessons to scale up their enterprises.
- Business Expansion: The program helps MSEs develop a comprehensive Business Improvement Plan for business growth.
- Employment Generation: Supporting the growth of MSEs spurs economic activity and creates jobs.
Program Eligibility
The DTI-KAPATID Mentor ME (KMME) Program is designed to assist micro and small entrepreneurs who are looking to scale up their enterprises.
To make sure the program benefits those who can make the most of it, there are specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age and Nationality: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and must be Filipino citizens residing in the Philippines.
- Business Ownership: The applicant must be the owner, co-owner, or partner of an existing enterprise.
- Business Registration: It must be legally registered with the appropriate government authorities.
- Operational History: It must have been operating for at least one year.
- Team Management: It should have employees, or the owner must manage a team.
- Commitment: The applicant must be willing to attend all scheduled sessions and sign a Contract of Commitment.
- References: Applicants need to provide three references who can vouch for their business and commitment.
Program Requirements
To participate in the KMME Program, applicants must meet certain requirements so that they are well-prepared to benefit from the mentorship and training provided.
Tools and Resources
- Technology Access: Mentees must have access to a laptop or desktop computer or a mobile phone.
- Internet Connectivity: A stable internet connection is required, which can be through LAN, Fiber Internet, or Mobile Data.
- Audio Equipment: Mentees need to have a headset or earphones for clear communication during online sessions.
- Facebook Account: A personal Facebook account is necessary as official announcements will be posted in the program’s Facebook group.
Participation Guidelines
- Owner or Successor Participation: The mentee should be the business owner or a successor. Employees of the mentee’s enterprise are discouraged from participating to avoid conflicts of interest.
- Single Representation: Only one mentee per enterprise and one mentee per family can join the program.
- Full Attendance: Mentees must commit to attending all sessions as specified in the schedule.
- Active Engagement: Participants are expected to actively engage in sessions, complete assignments, and present their Business Improvement Plan (BIP).
Application Process
- Contact DTI: Reach out to the nearest DTI Regional or Provincial Office to inquire about the program schedule and application details.
- Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents such as business registration, financial statements, a business profile, and photos of products or services.
- Submit Application: Submit the application online or in-person by the specified deadline. An interview may be required as part of the selection process.
- Attend Orientation: If selected, attend the mandatory orientation session to understand the program structure and expectations.
- Participate in Mentorship: Engage in the 10-module mentorship program over 10-12 weeks, which includes face-to-face and online learning sessions.
- Complete Requirements: Make sure all program requirements are met, including session attendance, assignments, and the BIP presentation.
- Graduate and Implement: Upon graduation, apply the knowledge and skills gained to grow and scale the business, with potential post-program support from DTI.
Recent Updates
Celebrating Entrepreneurial Resilience: Evelyn’s Food Shop
Evelyn’s Food Shop, a standout graduate of the KMME program, showcases resilience and culinary excellence in Nueva Vizcaya. Despite challenges, Ms. Evelyn Castro’s dedication to quality and joy through food shines bright. Contact 0956 498 6410 to support this local gem today!
Eight MSMEs from Bicol Region excelled in the KMME-MME Online Program, showcasing their dedication to business growth. These “Mentee-Graduates” presented Business Improvement Plans and completed a 10-week module program, culminating in a hybrid graduation ceremony at The Avenue Plaza Hotel, Naga City. Congratulations to the achievers!
Congratulations to Ms. Yna Patungan for winning the Best Business Improvement Plan in Rizal Province! Wishing her continued growth and success from this KMME accolade.
Ten Rizalenyo entrepreneurs benefit from streamlined access to key government agencies, enhancing their business development without the hassle of long queues.
Video: DTI-NCRO Kapatid Mentor Me (KMME) Program
Join the DTI Kapatid Mentor Me Program for expert coaching and mentoring to enhance your entrepreneurial skills.
Engage in a comprehensive 11-week program covering various entrepreneurial topics.
To qualify, aspiring mentees must meet specific criteria and commit to the program’s requirements for growth and development.
Conclusion
The DTI-KAPATID Mentor ME Program is a comprehensive approach designed to empower Filipino micro and small entrepreneurs.
Through mentorship, access to shared facilities, and integration into larger value chains, the program helps MSEs grow and thrive.
Whether online or face-to-face, the KMME Program continues to support the entrepreneurial journey of thousands across the Philippines, fostering economic growth and creating a brighter future for all.