The fiber broadband and technology provider launched SheConnects: Women Powering Business through Technology, an external digital empowerment campaign designed to support female entrepreneurs, particularly those running micro, small and medium enterprises.
Women entrepreneurs
The pilot leg was held in partnership with the Quezon City Government through its Small Business and Cooperatives Development and Promotions Office, and women’s empowerment nonprofit Network for Enterprising Women.
The event gathered about 70 emerging and established businesswomen from the MSME sector for training on digital tools that can help them compete in an increasingly technology-driven marketplace.
“Innovation should leave no one behind. Driven by our Tech for Good philosophy, we are intentionally bridging the digital divide for female-led micro, small, and medium enterprises by turning complex innovations into accessible, game-changing growth tools,” said Converge SME Solutions vice president and head of SME business development Heidi Garayblas in a statement.
“Through SheConnects campaign, we are delivering the essential technology insights that small businesses need to compete, scale, and thrive in today’s marketplace,” she added.
Digital security
The first session focused on digital security and the use of technology to improve business operations.
Converge Senior Vice President and Head of Cybersecurity Services Andrew Malijan led a discussion on data privacy and cybersecurity, emphasizing the need for businesses to protect their systems, customer information and day-to-day operations from digital threats.
Participants were also introduced to generative artificial intelligence and how it can support everyday business tasks.
AI tools
During the workshop, attendees learned how to draft more engaging social media posts and explore ways to use AI tools in daily operations.
The Converge Small and Medium Enterprises team also shared strategies on how businesses can better integrate digital solutions into their workflows. The program ended with an introductory session on using social media tools to improve brand visibility and expand market reach.
Quezon City officials said the initiative supports the local government’s efforts to build a stronger environment for women entrepreneurs.
“Quezon City has long championed women empowerment by creating opportunities that enable women to lead and succeed,” said QC-SBCDPO department head Mona Celine Yap.
“We acknowledge their contribution as powerful drivers of economic development, so through this campaign with Converge, we are strengthening an ecosystem where women-led businesses can flourish and reach greater heights through digital innovation and connectivity,” she added.
Wider rollout
Network for Enterprising Women President Ella Santos-Sol said the partnership would help equip women business owners with skills, resources and mentorship to build more sustainable enterprises.
Following the Quezon City launch, Converge said it plans to bring SheConnects to more communities nationwide as part of its push to expand digital inclusion among female-led MSMEs. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
