Kaunlad Pinoy pushes legislative plan to support small Filipino entrepreneurs

Building on its strong foundation of community support and grassroots empowerment, Kaunlad Pinoy is now channeling its efforts toward the legislative arena, aiming to create a more supportive environment for Filipino entrepreneurs.

The organization’s shift from a non-profit to a party-list is driven by a clear mission: to advocate for the rights and welfare of micro to small business owners and informal entrepreneurs across the Philippines.

A vision rooted in positive mindset and self-reliance

At the heart of Kaunlad Pinoy’s advocacy is the belief that a positive outlook can drive success.

As articulated by first nominee James Christopher "Choi" Napoles, "You attract what you give out to the universe. If you want to start something, you have to have that principle of having a positive outlook in life."

This principle guides their legislative agenda, aiming to instill self-reliance and resilience among Filipino entrepreneurs.

Capital for entrepreneurs

Kaunlad Pinoy’s legislative platform centers on several key goals designed to empower entrepreneurs and foster economic growth. Among these is the push for capital funding for small businesses, ensuring that entrepreneurs have access to the financial resources they need to start and grow their ventures.

To supplement the capital funding, simplifying access to funding for small communities must also be implemented. Kaunlad Pinoy plans to carve out a dedicated budget that entrepreneurs can access for financial assistance.

Napoles notes, "We need to create a budget of our own, ensuring that funds are readily available for those who need them to sustain and grow their businesses."

Napoles emphasizes that their approach moves beyond temporary solutions: "I am not a fan of dole outs; that is not sustainable. Not only are we going to teach them how to fish, we’re going to give them a boat too."

This philosophy is reflected in their goal to create social programs tailored for business owners, similar to those available for workers, to provide them with a safety net and growth opportunities.

Targeting informal entrepreneurs

Kaunlad Pinoy's advocacy is particularly focused on informal entrepreneurs, specifically those with assets below P3 million, which is the threshold to be considered a micro enterprise. Their target includes informal entrepreneurs like taho vendors, food stalls, kiosks, street food vendors, and other micro-scale business operators who often lack the initial capital to grow their businesses.

"Our aim is to support those who have no capital, ensuring that even the smallest entrepreneurs have a chance to succeed," Napoles underscores. He also emphasized that this initial capital is not borrowed, but given, ensuring that aspiring business owners are subject to minimal risk.

Institutionalizing financial literacy through Negosyo School

One of Kaunlad Pinoy’s groundbreaking initiatives is the Negosyo School, which they aim to institutionalize. This program will be integrated into curriculums to teach financial literacy and business skills, including essential knowledge about taxes. By doing so, they intend to equip future generations with the tools to manage and grow their businesses effectively.

Expanding reach through regional offices and chapters

To enhance their support network and garner more members, Kaunlad Pinoy aims to expand their regional offices and enforce the different headquarters and chapters of the organization. This expansion will provide localized support, making their resources and programs more accessible to their members across the Philippines.

International investment and economic growth

Kaunlad Pinoy also recognizes the need for the Philippines to attract more international investment. Napoles stressed, "Gusto natin pumasok ang pera sa Pilipinas mula sa ibang bansa. We should not be relying solely on the money circulating within our own citizens. We need more foreign investments to boost our economy."

Their legislative agenda includes policies to make the Philippines a more attractive destination for foreign capital, driving economic growth and creating more opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

Negonation: Bridging gaps

Kaunlad Pinoy’s flagship program, Negonation, serves as a blueprint for their legislative vision. It brings business leaders to local communities, offering practical business tips and matching local products with appropriate markets.

This initiative exemplifies their commitment to lowering the barriers to starting a business, providing support and resources without requiring initial capital from participants.

Napoles underscores the significance of this approach, "We’ve lowered the bar on how to start a business. We connect them to corporations they wouldn't normally have access to."

Beyond business and finances

Kaunlad Pinoy’s advocacy extends beyond just business support. They aim to create a holistic environment where small businesses can thrive, ensuring legislative measures are in place to protect and promote entrepreneurial ventures. Napoles, along with the party-list’s supporters, including Isko Moreno Domagoso, believes in a future where Filipino entrepreneurs are given the tools and opportunities to succeed.

As Kaunlad Pinoy continues its journey in the political landscape, it remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for the Filipino entrepreneur. By transforming their grassroots initiatives into legislative action, they are not only fostering economic development but also paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous Philippines.