LANDBANK, DOST strengthen nationwide support for MSMEs, startups

Reinforcing support for innovation-driven enterprises, LANDBANK has partnered with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to expand access to financing and technical assistance for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and startups nationwide.

Under the partnership, DOST-assisted enterprises will gain enhanced access to LANDBANK’s Innovative Financing Thrust Towards Inclusive National Growth (LIFTING) MSMEs Lending Program, enabling them to scale up operations, adopt new technologies, and generate employment in their communities.

The collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on 04 May 2026, led by DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. and LANDBANK President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz. They were joined by DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho A. Mabborang and LANDBANK Executive Vice President Charlotte I. Conde.

“Through this collaboration, we see an even brighter future for our fellow Filipinos. This initiative will provide our kababayans with the confidence to see STI [science, technology, and innovation] as a profitable industry. ‘May pera sa siyensya.’ This collaborative effort with LANDBANK shall foster the rise of new startups that would eventually create more job opportunities,” said DOST Secretary Solidum.

Under the agreement, DOST will identify and endorse eligible MSMEs and startups and provide technical assistance to help improve their readiness for financing. LANDBANK, in turn, will evaluate loan applications, extend financing support, and manage loan accounts to ensure the timely and efficient delivery of financial services.

“Our country is rich in innovators — young, capable, and driven by purpose. By aligning DOST’s innovation ecosystem with LANDBANK’s development financing, we are accelerating commercialization, lowering barriers, and strengthening MSMEs as drivers of inclusive growth — giving Filipino innovators a clear path to scale and impact,” said LANDBANK President and CEO Ortiz.

Launched in September 2025, the LIFTING MSMEs Lending Program aims to expand access to credit for MSMEs by offering tailored financing solutions that support innovation, growth, and countryside development. Since its rollout, the program has been implemented across key regions nationwide, bringing accessible financing closer to enterprises in both urban centers and underserved areas.

The MOU also builds on LANDBANK’s ongoing collaboration with DOST, including the Innovation and Technology (I-TECH) Lending Program implemented with the Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI), which supports the commercial production of patented Filipino inventions.

Together, these initiatives reinforce the national government’s efforts to promote innovation, strengthen financial inclusion, and accelerate enterprise growth in support of inclusive and sustainable development. (LANDBANK)