Last Monday, Go Negosyo and the Department of Trade and Industry launched “Kapatid, Angat Lahat,” an initiative that encourages big companies to help small entrepreneurs through mentoring, training, access to credit and market linkages.

More than 600 members of the entrepreneurship community, legislators, government representatives, and partner organizations expressed their support for Kapatid’s mission. Many entrepreneurs expressed their intention to become a mentor, which is something micro and small entrepreneurs can look forward to since they will be sharing their personal entrepreneurial journeys and how they have overcome trials and survived challenges.

In our 11-year advocacy, there are people I recognized for their continuous support to Go Negosyo. First is Manny V. Pangilinan, who has been helping in promoting entrepreneurship through his companies and recognizes entrepreneurs as heroes of this country. Next is former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who appointed me as the presidential consultant for entrepreneurship in 2005, which then led to the establishment of Go Negosyo. Tony Meloto of Gawad Kalinga is also an inspiration to this worthy cause. Also, I recognized legislators such as Vice President Leni Robredo and senators Cynthia Villar, Grace Poe, Sonny Angara, and Bam Aquino, who’ve all pushed for entrepreneurship. Sen. Aquino inspired and supported us through the Go Negosyo Law, his first bill, which established the Negosyo Centers nationwide.

The highlight of the launch was the forum on inclusive business, which featured Aquino, Angara, Poe, and senators Miguel Zubiri and Win Gatchalian.

With the outpouring of support from both private and public sectors, we can see that “Kapatid, Angat Lahat” will be successful. We will be partnering with more institutions and government agencies and together, we will all strive to reach the main goal: inclusive growth.