Tindahan Ni Nanay continues to live out its mission of empowering micro-entrepreneurs, sharing their inspiring stories, and celebrating handmade products crafted with love and dignity. In pursuit of RAFI Micro-finance’s vision of sustainable and dignified growth, the initiative has taken a bold step forward through a partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 7. 

With support from a successful DOST GIA grant, the PEER+ Training Program was launched to introduce micro-entrepreneurs to a more strategic, business-oriented approach to product development. This non-financial service is designed to uplift clients in Cebu, Bohol, and Negros Oriental, especially those producing food products and striving to grow their small businesses. 

In collaboration with DTI Region 7, participants received guidance on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and FDA compliance, helping them improve their product packaging and labeling to meet industry standards. 

To further enhance branding, Tindahan Ni Nanay partnered with Southwestern University – PHINMA, where 20 strategic communications interns from the School of Design & Communications worked closely with our micro-entrepreneurs. With support from DTI’s product designers, they held feedback sessions where entrepreneurs shared the stories behind their products—stories of tradition, resilience, and love. The interns then helped turn these stories into eye-catching and meaningful label designs. 

This partnership, with DTI Region 7 providing technical input and SWU – PHINMA (SDC) offering creative expertise, ensures each label is not only compliant but also visually compelling and emotionally resonant. 

As the initiative progresses, we are now finalizing product labels and preparing for the livelihood kit awarding this July 2025 in Cebu (North & South), Negros Oriental, and Bohol. These kits—funded through the DOST GIA grant—will include either a CAPEX product packaging vacuum sealer/labeler or a subsidy for FDA accreditation, supporting our clients in scaling their businesses. 

More than just training, PEER+ is a journey of transformation—helping our clients meet industry standards, refine their products, and take confident steps toward sustainable growth. 

Together, we’re crafting labels that speak volumes—about the people, the passion, and the purpose behind every product.