The Department, in support of MSMEs, conceived the Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program or SETUP. It consolidated all technology transfer and commercialization efforts. The strategy is one of two others, namely, TECHNICOM (Technological Innovation Commercialization Program) and SUPRE-GOV (Technology Support for E-Governance). All aimed at moving technology transfer programs for some 826,783 registered enterprises of which nearly a hundred percent are classified as micro, small and medium scale enterprises (MSMEs). The figure accounts for 53% of total employment and represents 60% of all exporting firms in the country.
Simply, SETUP is a nationwide strategy to encourage and assist MSMEs in adopting technological innovations. It aims to enhance operational efficiency, and boost productivity and competitiveness. Firms are empowered because solutions regard local conditions and market impact of problems.
Technology-based solutions hence raise standards and product quality. The end results are a human resource base adept in use of its skills, as well as, operations that maximize efficiency while minimizing cost and waste.
SETUP is DOST's key strategy to stimulate investments in urban, peri-urban and rural areas. The Department focuses on assisting MSMEs through: