Google launches MSME Caravan to digitize small businesses nationwide

Google Philippines, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), officially launched their MSME Caravan campaign last February 26. The project is under the banner of their Grow With Google program, which aims to make MSMEs more competitive through education on digital marketing.

The caravan has already trained more than 2,780 business owners through workshops across eight regions nationwide, in cities such as Makati, Tacloban, and Puerto Princesa. Aside from learning about the latest developments on the Filipino consumer, the participants are briefed on Primer, Google’s app that teaches digital marketing skills for free. They also set up their own websites through Google My Business, a free online listing that allows them to be visible on Google Maps.

Through this service, Michelle Mariano was able to expand Qmansi, her calamansi business based in Quirino Province. It helped her gain her first customers in Manila and a new partnership with a Korean businessman.

“We are humbled that Qmansi has gone places because of Google My Business. We are also proud at the same time that because of our products, more people now recognize the province of Quirino,” said Mariano.

Google MSME Caravan will run for the duration of the year and hopes to reach more cities and regions.

“Filipino MSMEs have the drive, the passion, and the dedication to succeed. Combine that with the new tools and opportunities of the internet, and there is no limit on what’s possible for them,” said Bernadette Nacario, Country Director of Google Philippines. “We hope that the MSME Caravan will help bring on board more trainees, visit more communities, and give more business owners the digital skills they need.”