In 2024, a total of 62 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Central Luzon benefitted from P67.8 million in support through the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).

SETUP is designed to boost the productivity and competitiveness of MSMEs, especially in rural areas, by offering technology transfer, training, consultancy, product testing, packaging assistance, and funding through the Innovation-Enabling Fund (iFund).

During the sixth edition of Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas, a 2025 event organized by the Philippine Information Agency, DOST Regional Director Julius Caesar Sicat emphasized that SETUP has been the agency’s flagship program for over a decade.

“It plays a crucial role in advancing socio-economic development in Central Luzon. As one of the top three regions contributing to the country’s GDP, it is vital that our department continues to create technologies, systems, and programs that support the success of local entrepreneurs in the manufacturing sector,” Sicat said.

Sicat clarified that while SETUP provides government assistance, it is not a grant. Beneficiaries are required to repay the funds within three years.

Thanks to this repayment model, DOST has reported a 92-93% repayment rate in the region.

“Our SETUP beneficiaries are experienced business owners who understand their responsibilities. This is why the repayment rate is so high,” Sicat explained. “This is a program we are truly proud of, as it not only supports MSMEs but also ensures that the funds provided by the government are returned to the National Treasury.”

DOST highlighted that any company or individual firm in the Philippines, fully owned by Filipino citizens, is eligible to apply for SETUP. MSMEs from priority sectors, as well as firms willing to adopt technological innovations in their operations, are encouraged to apply. Local government units (LGUs) can also participate if they aim to implement technological innovations within their jurisdictions.

Interested applicants can contact the SETUP Regional Program Management Office at 0917-834-3422 or via email at setup3@ro3.dost.gov.ph. They may also visit the DOST Regional Office or its Provincial Science and Technology Offices for further assistance.

Since June 2022, DOST has supported 161 MSMEs in Central Luzon through SETUP, providing more than 500 technology interventions, creating over 2,500 jobs, and generating over P613 million in sales. (PIA Region 3-Pampanga)