Payoneer, in partnership with social enterprise Bridge for Billions, recently concluded a six-month business incubation program aimed at supporting Filipino startups, hosting the final event “Accelerate Your Growth” at Grand Hyatt Manila.
This initiative, funded by the Payoneer Foundation, provided small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with essential mentorship and resources to address growth challenges, including brand awareness and limited access to funding.
Payoneer’s 2024 SMB Ambitions Barometer revealed that 38% of Filipino businesses view brand awareness and marketing as significant obstacles to expansion. Participants in the program benefited from business training, expert guidance, and networking opportunities to help them scale their ventures.
“Today, we celebrate Filipino entrepreneurs and their hard work,” said Monique Avila, senior director of Customer Success for Apac at Payoneer. “Our partnership with Bridge for Billions reflects our commitment to providing Filipino SMBs with the tools and support they need to grow internationally.”
During the event, top ventures pitched their businesses. Hey StorySeller Studios, a data management startup founded by Anna Violeta, won first place, while aquaculture venture Tambanokano Aqua Farm by Mary Grace Silverio took second. Studio Naghisa, a creative agency by Sheila Fuentes that supports women entrepreneurs, placed third.
Industry experts participated in a panel to offer advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
“If you get your numbers, culture, and mindset right, that will take you a long way,” said Love Gregorie Perez, Director of XChange Philippines.
“This program is just the beginning of Payoneer’s commitment to empowering Filipino SMBs and helping them seize global opportunities,” said Avila.