Two decades of championing entrepreneurship in the Philippines

As I reflect on the 20 years since founding Go Negosyo, I am reminded of the journey that has empowered micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to rise to their role of becoming a cornerstone of the Philippine economy.

- JOEY CONCEPCION

Since 2005 and until now, it is clear that to champion entrepreneurship, I needed to build essential partnerships with the government and rally support from the private sector.

The success of Go Negosyo has always hinged on collaboration. From its inception, the partnership between government and the private sector has been pivotal. When I was appointed as the Presidential Consultant for Entrepreneurship by former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in the same year I founded Go Negosyo, it marked the beginning of a harmonious alliance aimed at creating an enabling environment for MSMEs. This partnership inspired the launch of nationwide entrepreneurship caravans and sectoral dialogues that have empowered countless entrepreneurs throughout the Philippines.

Through these initiatives, I saw how effective collaboration can lead to significant results. For instance, the entrepreneurship mentoring caravans not only provided access to resources but also facilitated networking Opportunities among the entrepreneurs themselves. This exchange of ideas and experiences has proven invaluable for the MSMEs that participated in our activities.