MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL — The Department of Science and Technology 10 (DOST 10) has extended its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) to ABN Marketing, formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement on June 21, 2024, Ozamiz City.
The partnership aims to enhance the enterprise’s operational efficiency, expand product offerings, and boost market competitiveness.
ABN Marketing, managed by Pegielyn J. Sabunod, was founded in 2009 as an encoding hub and retailer of fashion accessories. The business has grown into a convenience store and provides photocopying, bookbinding, and tarpaulin lay-outing services. It serves many clients, including students, teachers, government employees, and bank customers.
Despite its growth, ABN Marketing envisions mechanizing production and expanding into wide-format printing services but needs more equipment in its facility. Recognizing this barrier, the enterprise sought assistance through DOST’s SETUP, a program designed to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by providing technological interventions to improve productivity and product quality.
“Our printing company views DOST SETUP as a pivotal opportunity for the long-term success of our printing business. We anticipate that the project’s support will not only enhance our operational efficiency and technological capabilities but also strengthen our market position and sustainability efforts. We are committed to maximizing the benefits of this engagement to drive long-term growth and innovation within our company,” Sabunod said.
Through the DOST program, ABN Marketing will acquire cutting-edge printing equipment, including a wide-format printer and cutter plotter. This technological upgrade will allow the enterprise to offer advanced printing services such as tarpaulin, posters, backdrops, murals, and banners. The business will also be able to produce temporary vehicle plates, signages, and other related products with greater efficiency and precision.
With these interventions, the business is expected to experience a 22% boost in productivity and 21% increase in sales after the first year of upgrades.
“DOST remains committed to supporting MSMEs in the province through SETUP. Through this program, we hope to support priority enterprises, including food processing, furniture, metals and engineering, and agriculture, among others, and contribute to the economic development in Misamis Occidental,” said DOST Misamis Occidental Provincial Director Eufresnie Ann D. Simbajon.
DOST SETUP is a nationwide strategy that provides a package of science and technology interventions, including seed funds for technology acquisition and equipment upgrading that the proponent will refund without interest.
In the famous words of DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, “Sa siyensiya at teknolohiya, negosyo tiyak kikita…” highlighting DOST’s commitment to support MSMEs with science and technology interventions.
This flagship program aims to enhance MSMEs’ capabilities through technological innovation. By supporting the acquisition of modern equipment, the program helps businesses overcome operational challenges, increase productivity, and remain competitive in the market. Interested and qualified firms may visit the nearest DOST office to participate in the program. (Ella B. Nadela, DOST Misamis Occidental)
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