DTI launches AI hub to support MSMEs in adopting artificial intelligence

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Tuesday launched a hub to help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) adopt artificial intelligence (AI) in their business operations.

The DTI Bagong Pilipinas AI and Scale-Up Center is a key part of an agreement signed by DTI and the Converge SME Business Group last year to strengthen MSME connectivity.

“There are a lot of businesses that are already moving forward, but now here comes AI. What should they do? How can they move forward with AI?” DTI Secretary Cristina Roque said in a mix of English and Filipino during the launch.

“For the small and medium [enterprises], they should not be scared of AI. They should use AI as a driver for them to succeed,” she added.

Converge ICT Solutions CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Uy said that it’s important for businesses to learn to use AI in their operations.

“If you do not learn AI, AI will replace you,” he said.

Also in attendance was Dennis Augusto Caharian, president and chief operating officer of GMA News Media, Inc., who noted how “DTI AI and Scale-Up Center is an important step in helping Filipino MSMEs move beyond just being aware of AI and actually putting it to work.”

“The real opportunity for MSMEs is not simply to adopt AI para masabi na AI-enabled sila, but to really understand where it can create meaningful business value in terms of improving productivity, reducing operational costs, creating better customer experiences, or even possibly discovering entirely new business models,” Caharian said..

Spanning 380 square meters, the center is located inside the department’s headquarters in Makati City.

It features co-working stations, meeting rooms, training rooms, and start-up and scale-up spaces. The hub will also offer free training programs for entrepreneurs.

“Because AI is no longer simply a technology of the future. It is already changing how businesses operate, compete, and grow. AI can help enterprises reduce costs, improve productivity, understand their customers, and make faster decisions,” DTI Undersecretary Nylah Bautista said.

Interested business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs can walk into the center for free or contact dtistartup@dti.gov.ph for reservations or other activities. –NB/RSJ, GMA News