The Department of Science and Technology approved a total of P15,617,330 projects under its Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program this year that benefited 12 entrepreneurs, Glady Reyes, science research specialist, said yesterday.

Reyes said SETUP is an innovative system support assistance fund of DOST that provides technical assistance to small entrepreneurs to upgrade their machines and equipment for manufacturing their products.

Among the assisted industries of DOST include metal and engineering, furniture, handicrafts, agriculture, health products, aquatic and marine, and information, communication, and technology, Reyes said.

She said the assistance aims to help them advance their production, manage waste, minimize expenses, and produce quality and competitive products.

The 12 beneficiaries of SETUP were Jocynth’s Coco Food Enterprise, Kahayag Nature Farms, Marchris Industrial and Engineering Supply, Marcies Cakes and Pastries, Theo and Shine Enterprises, and Negros Prawn Producers Cooperative.

PB&C Logistics Marine Products, Seed Trade Muscovado, Buro-Buro Springs Black Pepper, Flowers & Vermi Farm, GH Foods, Inc., Fresh Start Organic Personal Care Products Boutique, and Herbanext Incorporated also availed of DOST aid.

Reyes said the beneficiaries will have three years to pay for the grants without interest, adding that the scheme will help them establish good machines and equipment that will help them in their respective businesses.

In Western Visayas, Negros Occidental has the highest approved proposals under SETUP, followed by the province of Iloilo with 10, Capiz with nine, Aklan and Guimaras with six approved proposals each, and four from Antique, she also said.

In Region 6, a total of 47 beneficiaries were assisted under the program that amounted to P38,114,593.40, Reyes added. *LTG

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