SBPA launches in CMDI Tagum

The CARD-MRI Development Institute, Inc. Tagum Campus conducted an orientation on the Student Business Project Assistance (SBPA) Program to students on August 1, 2019.

Participated mostly by BS Entrepreneurship students, the orientation provides information needed by students about this new program of CMDI.

The business project assistance was initially introduced by Dr. Alip on his previous visit in CMDI Tagum during one of the school’s morning assemblies.

As stated in the guidelines, SBPA ‘aims to encourage and develop students to become new entrepreneurs creating business opportunities. Furthermore, ‘the program will provide assistance and exposure to students in developing their business skill and competency by giving them entrepreneurial education to start the business or grow their existing business.’

The presentation was led by Butch Carlo Gono, CMDI Faculty, and Michael Cose of OSAs. They discussed the program’s objectives, guidelines and procedures and explained the eligibility criteria of the program as well as the assessment process and referral to CARD, Inc. which was tapped to provide the funding for the program.

Gono assured students that the program is more than just providing funds since faculty members of the Department of Business and Management (DBM) are also members of the SBPA program and are expected to participate in its implementation by providing assistance, mentorship, and consultation. Thus, students can seek advice from them. They are also assured that their respective businesses are regularly monitored, reported and evaluated to keep track of their progress.

Moreover, institutions like BDSFI and MLNI, that have expertise in business processing, marketing, packaging and even sourcing of raw materials, will be extending their support to the students as well.

The initial loanable amount of under the program is from Php 500.00 to Php 3,000.00 and has a loan ceiling of Php10,000.00 payable for in 3 to 6 months at a very low-interest rate of 0.5% per month.

Cose informed that their office is now ready to accept application from students.