The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region III continues its dedication to shaping the future of entrepreneurship through the Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP). This initiative is designed to equip young people with the necessary skills, networks, and opportunities to succeed in the business world.
The program targets aspiring and current entrepreneurs aged 15 to 30, with a special focus on out-of-school youth, in-school youth, indigenous youth, youth with disabilities, and those not in education, employment, or training (NEET).
YEP is built on three core components: Youth Start, Youth Net, and Youth Match. Youth Start encourages young people to explore entrepreneurship and unlock their business potential. Youth Net connects them with industry leaders, chambers of commerce, and school-based organizations. Lastly, Youth Match provides platforms such as pitching competitions, networking events, and trade fairs to help young entrepreneurs develop and showcase their business ideas.
A key platform of the program is the You Can Be Your Own Boss (YEP-BYOB) training workshop. This workshop follows a standardized curriculum that covers four business modules and 19 essential topics, designed to enhance business knowledge and skills.
DTI-3 Regional Director Edna D. Dizon shared, “This program aims to inspire more young adults to venture into business and support those already in it. It helps them embrace the benefits and convenience of being their own boss.”
With a hands-on, activity-based approach, the YEP-BYOB workshop ensures that participants gain practical experience and valuable business insights. The program culminates in a Business Pitch Competition, where participants present their ideas to industry experts.
In 2024, DTI-3 conducted four YEP-BYOB sessions, benefiting 92 aspiring and existing entrepreneurs. The program’s focus on capacity building, mentorship, and market access has helped foster the development of young entrepreneurs throughout the region.
For 2025, DTI-3 plans to hold five YEP-BYOB workshops across various provinces, with a target of reaching at least 100 young entrepreneurs. These workshops will offer hands-on training, business coaching, and opportunities for participants to refine and grow their business ideas.
DTI Region III remains committed to expanding the program’s reach by partnering with local government units, academic institutions, and the private sector. Moving forward, the goal is to provide more support to youth-led businesses, including increased access to funding and mentorship, ensuring a sustainable future for young entrepreneurs in Central Luzon.
