In a decisive move to champion women’s economic empowerment, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its financing arm, the Small Business (SB) Corporation, has launched the Women’s Enterprise Fund (WEF).
This flagship credit facility is a direct response to the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to scale up support for women-led Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the archipelago.
The program recognizes the pivotal role Filipina entrepreneurs play in nation-building, offering them the financial “gasoline” needed to accelerate their business growth and sustainability.
The Women’s Enterprise Fund is designed to break down the traditional barriers women face when accessing capital. By streamlining requirements and offering flexible terms, the DTI aims to transform the landscape for local “negosyantes.”
Key features of the fund:
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Substantial Loan Caps: Borrow up to ₱20 million to fund equipment purchase, working capital, or business expansion.
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Preferential Rates: Access low-interest financing significantly more affordable than commercial bank rates.
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Expedited Processing: A simplified application path ensures that entrepreneurs spend less time on paperwork and more time on operations.
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Inclusive Eligibility: Open to women-owned or women-led MSMEs that have been operational for at least one year.
“Our goal is to ensure that no Filipina entrepreneur is left behind,” said the DTI Secretary. “Through the SB Corp, we are providing not just credit, but a vote of confidence in the brilliance and resilience of our women leaders. This fund is an investment in the future of the Philippine economy.”
The initiative aligns with the administration’s broader “Bagong Pilipinas” campaign, which prioritizes inclusive growth and the digitalization of small businesses. By providing easier access to multi-million peso loans, the government seeks to bridge the gender financing gap and encourage more women to transition from informal micro-operations to formal, scalable enterprises.
The SB Corporation is now accepting applications through its online portal. Filipina entrepreneurs are encouraged to take the next step in their negosyo journey today.
Application steps:
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Visit the official SB Corp website at www.sbcorp.gov.ph.
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Navigate to the Women’s Enterprise Fund section.
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Submit the digital requirements and track your application status in real-time.
