The fiber broadband provider said building trust and demonstrating everyday business applications would be critical as technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain and cloud computing become increasingly accessible to smaller enterprises.
Building trust
Speaking at the ASEAN Tech Summit Manila 2026, Converge senior vice president and SME Group head Dindo Marzan said MSMEs need guidance to understand how emerging technologies can address their specific business needs.
“The battle cry of our founders - Dennis and Grace Uy - has always been to leave no one behind in this digital age,” said Marzan. “For MSMEs to see the value of emerging technologies, there has to be dedicated guidance. A sari-sari store owner needs to see the practical, day-to-day benefit of a tool and trust it enough to use it.”
Marzan joined a panel that included Trade and Industry Undersecretary Jean Pacheco, Binance Philippines general manager Jen Bilango, and Blockshoals Technologies Inc. head of legal Atty. Tonet Quiogue.
Lowering barriers
Converge said technology providers could encourage adoption by giving entrepreneurs opportunities to test digital tools before making a financial commitment.
The company cited partnerships with government agencies such as the DTI and digital platforms such as TikTok to provide free trials and practical guidance.
It also advocates keeping software and digital add-ons affordable relative to an MSME’s main connectivity subscription.
Tailored tools
Converge said technology solutions should also address specific challenges faced by smaller businesses rather than take a one-size-fits-all approach.
The company is working with partners and affiliates to develop tailored solutions while offering connectivity products such as FlexiBiz, BizEdge and Micro BizMax.
By combining broadband connectivity with lower-cost tools and direct support, Converge said it aims to make digitalization more accessible to businesses that may lack the resources and technical expertise of larger enterprises. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
