MANILA — Land Bank of the Philippines and the Department of Science and Technology have strengthened efforts to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and startups by expanding access to financing and technical assistance nationwide.

Under the partnership, enterprises assisted by DOST will gain better access to LANDBANK’s Innovative Financing Thrust Towards Inclusive National Growth (LIFTING) MSMEs Lending Program, which aims to help businesses expand operations, adopt new technologies, and create jobs.

The collaboration was formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed on May 4, 2026 by DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. and LANDBANK President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz. Also present during the signing were 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,” Solidum said.

Under the agreement, DOST will identify and endorse qualified MSMEs and startups while also providing technical assistance to improve their readiness for financing.

LANDBANK, meanwhile, will assess loan applications, extend financing support, and oversee loan accounts to ensure 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,” Ortiz said.

Launched in September 2025, the LIFTING MSMEs Lending Program was designed to widen access to credit through financing solutions tailored for innovation, business growth, and countryside development.

According to LANDBANK, the program has already been rolled out across key regions nationwide to bring financing services closer to enterprises in urban and underserved communities.

The memorandum also builds on existing cooperation between LANDBANK and DOST, including the Innovation and Technology (I-TECH) Lending Program implemented with the Technology Application and Promotion Institute, which supports the commercial production of patented Filipino inventions.

Both agencies said the initiatives aim to strengthen innovation, financial inclusion, and enterprise development in support of sustainable and inclusive economic growth.