You've probably seen Go Lokal! stores in different malls, parks, and other establishments. In case you didn't know, this all-Filipino store is an effort by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) sell their products to a wider audience, not just in their cities and municipalities, but around the Philippines. Currently, there are 114 different Go Lokal! stores in different regions; a number which would hopefully increase in the coming years.
If you have big idea for a small business, and you really, really believe in the product you've developed and plan on selling, then Go Lokal! is a great avenue for you to start from. Here's how you can become a supplier, according to DTI:
1. Download all needed forms from https://golokal.dti.gov.ph/download-forms. These are:
- FORM A: Go Lokal! Application-Contract Form
- FORM B: Product Information Sheet
- FORM D: Go Lokal! Delivery Forms
2. Fill out FORM A.
3. Fill out FORM B and include images of your products. Make sure to have one information sheet per product/variant.
4. Fill out FORM D, and make sure to prepare samples of your product/s.
5. Have a photocopy of your BIR Forms 2303 and 0605 with you, as well as your official receipt or cash/sales invoice.
6. Don't forget your business registration documents.
7. Submit/send your applications (and six to twelve product samples) to:
Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (BDTP)
Ground Floor, Trade and Industry Building,
361 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City
Go Lokal! will then review your application. If your business gets approved, not only will you be able to undergo product development training, you'll also get to be a Go Lokal! supplier and enjoy all the marketing and promotional support that comes with it! It's definitely a great opportunity to grow your enterprise.
For more details on Go Lokal!, visit their website.
