Uswag Negosyo Academy (UNA) is a banner program of the Iloilo City Government through the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) Office, which focuses on the needs and growth of local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the metropolis.

Aligned with Mayor Jerry Treñas’ vision, UNA aims to enhance the redevelopment of public markets in Iloilo City by providing vendors with essential skills in food handling and safety. This initiative ensures that the products and services offered are not only safe but also elevated to meet the standards of the Ilonggo community.

The training program, conducted in batches lasting six to seven weeks, will be held at the 2nd Floor LEDIP Office Training Room in Iloilo City Hall, starting from April 4. With each batch accommodating 25 participants, upon completion of the training, individuals will receive livelihood packages and a funding of P5,000 to support their businesses

UNA’s objective is to engage market vendors, ambulant sellers, start-ups, local MSMEs, and aspiring entrepreneurs, fostering business initiation, sustainability, and resiliency through collaborative partnerships. The initiative facilitates access to capacity development activities, networking services, business matching, and sector expansion for the city’s MSMEs, enabling improved operations and business legitimization.

The comprehensive program includes training sessions, seminars, meetings, and conferences on topics such as financial literacy, basic entrepreneurship, and enterprise management, tailored to the specific needs of the target market. To participate, applicants must be bona fide city residents, actively run a business with a valid market permit, and submit required documentation.

Furthermore, the program facilitates connections between local MSMEs, business partners, and suppliers to enhance marketability. Led by a partnership between government and private agencies, including SM, BDO Foundation, Department of Agriculture (DA), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Uygongco Foundation, the program ensures the provision of capability-building seminars.

For interested applicants, inquiries can be made to the LEDIP office at 333-1111, local 813, 09162927389, or via email at investiniloilocity@gmail.com.