DTI doubles women’s MSME fund to P2 billion
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has doubled the funding for its women-focused financing program. It set aside P2 billion in 2026 to expand credit access for women entrepreneurs through the Small Business Corp. (SBCorp).
The allocation will support SBCorp’s Women’s Enterprise Fund (WEF), a dedicated facility for women-owned and women-led micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
It is twice the P1 billion initially earmarked for the WEF when it was launched in June 2025. The government seeks to support both fledgling businesses and firms ready to scale up operations.
Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the initiative aims to improve access to capital for women entrepreneurs while supporting inclusive economic growth.
“We continue to support women entrepreneurs seeking local and global expansion, while also opening opportunities for those ready to expand, create jobs and strengthen local economies,” Roque said in a statement on Wednesday.
Under the program, borrowers may avail of loans ranging from P30,000 to P20 million, with repayment terms of up to five years.
Eligible borrowers may also be granted a one-year grace period on both principal and interest. Requirements on collateral are waived for loans of up to P5 million.
An initial batch of WEF loans released in July 2025 amounted to P4.22 million. This benefited 24 women entrepreneurs engaged in businesses such as variety stores, garments, pharmacies, beauty salons, cafés and restaurants.
