MAKATI CITY — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with telecommunications provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc., has officially opened the DTI AI and Scale-Up Center to accelerate technology adoption for local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and startups. Located at the DTI Filinvest Building in Makati City, the dedicated facility provides businesses with practical guidance and infrastructure to integrate artificial intelligence into their daily operations.
A Hands-On Hub for Emerging Technologies
The newly inaugurated center functions as an interactive environment where growing enterprises can transition from early-stage ideas to market-ready operations. Visitors and participating business owners gain access to live AI demonstration spaces, dedicated Accelerator Pods, pitching areas, and specialized training facilities designed to demonstrate how automated digital tools can raise workforce productivity.
Through expert-led workshops and technical consultations, local businesses can learn to streamline routine workflows, automate customer service channels, and enhance decision-making pipelines without needing massive capital investments.
Private-Public Collaboration for Business Scaling
The launch marks the formal execution of a memorandum of understanding signed between DTI and Converge through its Converge SME Solutions arm. Backed by national economic frameworks—including the Tatak Pinoy Strategy, the Philippine Innovation Act, and the Innovative Startup Act—the center bridges the gap between private tech expertise and local enterprises.
As the primary technology partner, Converge provides high-speed enterprise connectivity, cloud tools, and technical support to keep the center running. Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque emphasized that scaling a business requires usable tools and practical guidance, enabling local entrepreneurs to convert innovative concepts into functional commercial solutions.
Empowering Smaller Enterprises for Digital Competition
While large corporations often possess the financial resources to adopt proprietary AI systems, smaller enterprises frequently face infrastructure and expertise barriers. The DTI AI and Scale-Up Center levels the playing field by offering accessible, low-barrier entry points for MSMEs seeking to compete in an increasingly digital economy.
By equipping local business owners with direct assistance from private-sector tech leaders, the initiative aims to build long-term digital resilience, enhance operational efficiency, and drive local economic growth across various industries.
