DTI trade center launches furniture, creative industries training programs
In a bid to foster innovation in varying fields of business, the Philippine Trade Training Center - Global MSME Academy (PTTC-GMEA) launched on Dec. 6 two dynamic training programs aimed at the furniture and creative industries at the ENSAYO Creative Hub in Pasay City.
The launch was graced by Department of Trade and Industry - Competitiveness and Innovation Group (DTI-CIG) Undersecretary Rafaelita Aldaba, PTTC-GMEA Executive Director Nelly Nita Dillera, along with representatives from the Chamber of Furniture Industries of the Philippines, Inc., Pampanga Furniture Industries Foundation, Inc., and Cebu Furniture Industries, Inc.
The new programs are the OBRA Design Masterclass and Lunsod Lunsad Creative Entrepreneurship Training, which the PTTC-GMEA opened to empower local and diversified talent that will drive positive changes in their respective industries.
“Through these programs, we aim not only to elevate standards but also to contribute significantly to the economic and social well-being of our nation. The transformative impact of creativity and skill development is immeasurable, and we are excited to witness the positive changes that will unfold as we nurture the next generation of design leaders and creative entrepreneurs,” said Dillera.
The OBRA Design Masterclass Program focuses on enhancing the local furniture industry by elevating Filipino crafts and standards in furniture design by utilizing advanced technologies and sustainable materials and measures.
It consists of a “Designer’s Phase,” wherein participants are trained on product development including planning, execution, and evaluation stages. Afterwards, participant-companies are engaged in a consultancy process to tailor-fit the best product development plans for their needs.
The program will culminate in a marketing event to showcase their designs, guided by mentors who will assist in the visual merchandising aspect to ensure designs meet market demands.
Meanwhile, the Lunsod Lunsad Creative Entrepreneurship Training aims to support creative proposals for cities, including key areas of creative entrepreneurship, job creation, skills development, capacity building, design thinking, and digital skills.
Training is accessible for various programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) such as “co-financing Creative and Cultural Initiatives, capacity-building for local creatives, development and promotion of Cultural and Creative MSMEs, digitalization of information on Creative Industries, development of Creative Districts, incentive for Cultural and Creative Initiatives, support for young or emerging creatives participating in Summer Camps and Art/Creative Residencies, Creative Industries Research, and strengthening Creative Hubs.”
The PTTC-GMEA emphasized its commitment to nurture grassroots creatives for the further innovation and economic development of the country.