Intel Philippines said in a statement Thursday that they, in cooperation with their computer hardware and software partners, aimed “to equip Filipino entrepreneurs with the technology solutions they need in an increasingly connected world.”
Carlo Subido, Business Development Manager of Intel Microelectronics Philippines, said that SMEs made up 20 percent of the Philippine personal computer market, second only to the consumer market at 67 percent.
The problem, however, was that only 25 percent of SMEs used computers to help them in their business, Subido said.
The “Negosyantech campaign” is targeted specifically for SME so they can grow their business and make it more productive and efficient.
“Negosyantech provides solutions that create a link between front-end and back-end systems by giving entrepreneurs a range of offerings … that ensure their business processes run smoothly and productively through reliable technology,” Intel said at the launching of the campaign.
Online marketplace
Intel has partnered with Multiply.com, an online marketplace and social networking site, to serve as the front-end system of entrepreneurs where they can sell their products and services.
“Multiply.com’s vast expertise and success in the local e-commerce space is a testament to the advantages of having a strong online presence,” Intel said.
The online site has over 127,000 merchants selling online and over 2,500 online shops month-on-month “and continues to connect emerging entrepreneurs to business success.”
Steven Santos, Business Partnership Development Head of Multiply Philippines, said in an interview that among the advantages of e-commerce were the easy online payment schemes in partnership with trusted banks and their ease and convenience for buyers to shop from the comfort of their own home.
He said that the number of transactions through their site was growing “100 percent each month.” When a buyer or seller experiences the satisfaction of the first transaction, they become more encouraged with the system and eventually trusting it more, he said.
Software solution
To help entrepreneurs to run their business more efficiently, Intel collaborated with 8Layer Technologies, Inc. “to design software applications that achieve cost-effective, easy-to-use business solutions that grow with the entrepreneur.”
8Layer Technologies Inc. created the “Kasosyo Apps Suite,” a bundle of programs for the purchasing, sales, inventory, and accounting aspects of any business.
Deng Silorio, 8Layer Technologies Inc. Marketing and Business Operations Head, said that “by providing a software program wherein SMEs can confidently check its financials and operations at a glance, we are enabling Filipino entrepreneurs to be self-reliant by managing their business without the need for external consultants and exorbitant fees.”
The “Kasosyo Apps Suite” is available through the Negosyantech campaign for P12,000. They are also offering the suite as an online subscription service at P588 per month, Silorio said.
Empowered Entrepreneurs
Through Multiply.com and 8Layer Technologies, entrepreneurs will be able to “sell their products and services to a large market using e-commerce [as a] platform,” Intel said.
“The more entrepreneurs embrace technology and the internet through relevant and affordable offers, such as those of the Negosyantech program, the faster the e-commerce economy will grow benefitting all of our businesses,” Santos said.
“With social media and Internet usage quickly becoming an indispensable part of everyday life, today’s entrepreneurs are turning to technology to develop innovative solutions that address the unique business challenges they face,” Intel said.