Research Details

Government Support Programs as Predictors of Micro Enterprise Sustainability in Ilocos Norte

Errol John V. Valdez

Brief Description

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) play a vital role in the Philippine economy by generating employment, providing income, and supporting economic development. Despite their contributions, microenterprises face challenges in accessing financing, technical assistance, market opportunities, and regulatory services. In response, government agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and local government units provide various support programs to strengthen enterprise development. However, local studies indicate that financial management difficulties persist and that some eligible enterprises have not availed themselves of available government benefits and incentives (Macatumbas, Corpuz, & Bool, 2021).

This study aims to determine the level of awareness and utilization of government support programs among microenterprises in Ilocos Norte and examine how financial assistance, non-financial assistance, and regulatory facilitation predict microenterprise sustainability in terms of financial viability, operational continuity, and adaptive capacity. Using a descriptive-predictive research design, the study will identify which dimensions of government support significantly predict specific sustainability outcomes. It addresses the limited province-specific evidence on the relationship between government assistance and microenterprise sustainability.

The findings will serve as the basis for developing a Microenterprise Government Support and Sustainability Guide for Ilocos Norte. The guide will consolidate information on available government programs, eligibility requirements, application procedures, and relevant services, together with practical recommendations for strengthening business sustainability. The study will benefit microenterprise owners, government agencies, local government units, business development service providers, cooperatives, business associations, academic institutions, policymakers, and local communities. Findings will be disseminated through digital and printed copies of the guide, research publications, policy briefs, stakeholder consultations, and research presentations.

The study's social and economic value lies in promoting inclusive access to government assistance, improving the delivery and coordination of support services, strengthening enterprise resilience, and contributing to sustainable livelihoods, income generation, and employment opportunities. It supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by promoting sustainable enterprises and employment; SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by addressing barriers to accessing government support; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by encouraging collaboration among government agencies, local government units, and microenterprise stakeholders. Ultimately, the study seeks to provide evidence-based recommendations for more responsive government interventions and sustainable microenterprise development in Ilocos Norte.

Expected Output

Product. Development of a Microenterprise Government Support and Sustainability Guide for Ilocos Norte that consolidates information on available government support programs, eligibility requirements, application procedures, and relevant services. The guide will include practical recommendations to strengthen microenterprises’ financial viability, operational continuity, and adaptive capacity.
Publication. Preparation and dissemination of a research paper presenting the findings on the awareness, utilization, and predictive relationships of government support and microenterprise sustainability. The study will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal and may be presented at research conferences to share evidence-based insights with academic institutions, policymakers, and development practitioners.
People and Services. Improved awareness and understanding among microenterprise owners and operators of available government assistance programs and appropriate strategies for business sustainability. The findings will also provide government personnel, business development service providers, and other stakeholders with evidence to enhance the delivery, accessibility, and responsiveness of enterprise support services.
Places. Generation of province-specific evidence on government support and microenterprise sustainability in Ilocos Norte. The findings and proposed guide may serve as reference materials for municipal and provincial government units in identifying gaps in program awareness, accessibility, utilization, and service delivery across local communities.
Partnership. Strengthening of collaboration among the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), local government units (LGUs), and other relevant institutions. The study will provide a basis for coordinated information dissemination, improved referral mechanisms, and more responsive government support for microenterprises.
Social Impact. Promotion of inclusive access to government support programs, particularly among microentrepreneurs who may experience difficulties accessing financial assistance, technical services, business development programs, and regulatory support. By improving awareness and access to appropriate assistance, the study may contribute to more resilient enterprises, sustainable livelihoods, and inclusive local economic development, consistent with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8, 10, and 17.
Economic Impact. Contribution to improved microenterprise sustainability through better access to relevant government programs and the adoption of appropriate business management and adaptation strategies. In the long term, the study may help strengthen enterprise survival, business continuity, income generation, employment opportunities, and local economic activity in Ilocos Norte. Its findings may also guide government agencies in improving the targeting and coordination of support programs and the use of public resources.