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The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) recently concluded a comprehensive visit to three Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Programme (SETUP) projects in the Ilocos Region. Led by Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr..
The visit aimed to showcase the achievements and overall development of enterprises that have benefited significantly from the technical and technological support provided by the DOST. This initiative serves as a compelling demonstration of the potential benefits that science, technology, and innovation can bring to bear on improving business operations within the region.
The purpose of the visit to the three SETUP projects during this initiative was to highlight their achievements, showcase ongoing developments, and underscore the positive impact of the technical and technological assistance provided by DOST under SETUP.
The DOST’s involvement in SETUP underscores its role as a catalyst for positive change in the entrepreneurial landscape, propelling local businesses towards greater heights of success. By providing crucial technical and technological support, the DOST empowers enterprises to not only thrive in their respective industries but also contribute meaningfully to the overall economic development of the region.
The Department of Science and Technology’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Programme (DOST-SETUP) is a nationwide initiative with a focused mission – encouraging and supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in embracing technological innovations to elevate the quality of their products, services, and operations.
The programme aims to bolster productivity and competitiveness, contributing to the overall economic development of the nation. DOST-SETUP employs a holistic set of tools and resources to address technical challenges and enhance efficiency.
The programme strategically focuses on several key areas, including the infusion of appropriate technologies, which involves conducting technology needs assessments, facilitating technology sourcing, providing seed funds for technology acquisition, delivering Science and Technology (S&T) training, and offering consultancy and technical advisory services.
DOST-SETUP actively collaborates with the Department of Trade and Industry-Bureau of Product Standards (DTI-BPS) to develop product standards, conduct comprehensive product testing, enhance testing laboratories, and contribute to the design of functional packages and labels. The programme also emphasises identifying and developing suitable or alternative packaging materials, particularly from indigenous sources, reflecting a commitment to sustainability.
Within the Database Management and Information Systems domain, DOST-SETUP pursues initiatives such as compiling an extensive list of available technologies, creating a comprehensive database of Science and Technology (S&T) experts, establishing a curated list of testing laboratories with information on available testing services, and developing a dedicated website for MSMEs. This website serves as a dynamic platform for MSMEs to showcase their products, fostering accessibility to essential information.
DOST-SETUP actively facilitates the sourcing of raw materials, supports marketing endeavours, provides assistance in financing initiatives, and lends expertise to equipment design and fabrication. These strategic initiatives contribute to creating a robust network, promoting collaboration and resource accessibility for MSMEs.
To effectively achieve its objectives, DOST-SETUP employs five major strategies, focusing on technology provision, product standards and testing, database management and information systems, as well as linkaging and networking. These initiatives collectively empower MSMEs, fortify their technological capabilities, and contribute to the larger goal of economic development.
DOST-SETUP emerges as a crucial player in fortifying MSMEs, fostering innovation, and contributing to the nation’s economic development through science, technology, and innovation. The programme’s commitment to collaboration, information dissemination, and technological empowerment underscores its role in driving positive change within the MSME landscape.
