Converge, DTI link up to boost MSMEs’ internet, AI access
MANILA, Philippines – Converge ICT Solutions Inc. and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) have teamed up to expand the access of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to the internet and artificial intelligence-driven solutions.
Under a memorandum of understanding signed on Tuesday, Converge will support the DTI in providing MSMEs with connectivity packages. The collaboration also covers onboarding assistance in e-commerce automation, cloud solutions and AI tools integration.
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“The DTI believes that digitalization of our MSMEs is no longer optional but absolutely essential in today’s highly digital business environment,” said Trade Assistant Secretary Nylah Bautista. She heads the DTI’s competitiveness and innovation group.
AI hub
A key component of the partnership is Converge’s role in helping develop the DTI’s planned AI hub.Bautista said the first hub is nearing completion at the ground floor of the DTI head office in Makati.
There are plans to expand this to other regions later on.
The AI hub will be open to MSMEs for free and can serve as a temporary workspace and training center for AI systems that Converge will help develop.
The new hub is different from the initial research center that the DTI planned, which has been transferred to the Department of Education.
Dindo Marzan, Converge’s senior vice president for the SME group, said the firm aims to develop AI tools tailored for MSMEs to help streamline their processes and reduce operational costs.
“Every business relies not only on effective and efficient connectivity but also easy-to-use and practical digital solutions,” Marzan said.
Collaboration
Converge also plans to cater particularly to micro enterprises, Marzan said, noting that most existing solutions cater to medium-sized businesses.
MSMEs make up 99.95 percent of total businesses in the country and employ more than 60 percent of the workforce.
However, a 2020 study by the DTI’s E-Commerce Bureau showed only 10 percent of MSMEs used advanced digital tools for processes like automation and analytics.
Bautista said the collaboration aims to level the playing field for small businesses.
“Through this initiative, we can give our entrepreneurs not just access to tools, but a fair chance to compete and succeed in the global market,” she said.
