Sun Life Philippines, the nation’s leading life insurance company, has joined forces with Go Negosyo, a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship, in a strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing financial literacy and securing the future of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the Philippines.

Photo shows (from left:) Thermina Akram, Executive Director of Go Negosyo; Joey Concepcion, Founder of Go Negosyo; Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines; and Cary Casipit, Head of Client Segments Marketing of Sun Life Philippines during the MOA-signing.

The partnership, which was recently formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), marks a significant step towards creating a more resilient and financially savvy business community.

The collaboration between Sun Life and Go Negosyo is designed to guide MSMEs toward a brighter future by building an ecosystem that nurtures entrepreneurship, fosters financial inclusion, and strengthens the Filipino business landscape.

Recognizing the critical role that MSMEs play in the Philippine economy, the two organizations have committed to developing tailored financial solutions that meet the unique needs of these small businesses. These solutions include access to capital, insurance protection, and expert financial planning services, all aimed at helping MSMEs achieve long-term success and sustainability.

Sun Life to participate in Go Negosyo’s 3M on Wheels program

A key component of this partnership is Sun Life’s participation in Go Negosyo’s 3M (Mentorship, Money, and Markets) on Wheels program. This mobile entrepreneurship caravan travels across the country, bringing essential business support services directly to MSMEs in various regions.

At these events, Sun Life financial advisors will be on hand to offer financial consultations, helping entrepreneurs not only secure their business ventures but also align their personal financial goals with their entrepreneurial aspirations. This hands-on approach is intended to provide MSMEs with the knowledge and tools they need to future-proof their businesses in an increasingly competitive market.

Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines, emphasized the importance of this partnership in supporting the nation’s entrepreneurs. “Securing the future of our negosyantes is an important focus for us at Sun Life because we believe that they are the backbone of our economy,” Gonzalez-Chong said. “This is why our partnership with Go Negosyo is a natural fit. We share a common vision of a nation where entrepreneurship thrives, and where every Filipino is given the opportunity to reach their full potential.”

Joey Concepcion, Founder of Go Negosyo, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the critical need for financial literacy among MSMEs. “Go Negosyo is grateful to Sun Life Philippines for doing its part in helping our MSMEs,” Concepcion stated. “Access to capital, as well as financial literacy, is an important pillar of successful entrepreneurship, and with this collaboration, we will be able to better address a learning gap that is especially common among aspiring entrepreneurs.”

The MOA signing event, which took place recently, was attended by key figures from both organizations, including Gonzalez-Chong; Cary Casipit, Sun Life Philippines Head of Client Segments Marketing; Joey Concepcion; and Thermina Ann Akram, Executive Director of Go Negosyo. The event underscored the shared commitment of both organizations to empower Filipino entrepreneurs through education and financial support.

As part of the event, Sun Life also introduced Go Negosyo to its innovative financial literacy tool, Play for Life: A Game of Choices. This tabletop board game, specifically designed for business owners, serves as an engaging way to impart valuable financial literacy tips and strategies. The game aims to make the often complex concepts of financial planning more accessible and enjoyable for MSMEs, further supporting their journey toward financial independence and success.

In 2023, Joey Concepcion, Go Negosyo founder, stated that the country’s small entrepreneurs are pre-positioned to lead the country’s recovery following three years of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Looking ahead, this partnership between Sun Life and Go Negosyo is poised to make a lasting impact on the MSME sector in the Philippines. By providing entrepreneurs with the financial education and resources they need to thrive, the collaboration seeks to build a stronger, more resilient economy where Filipino businesses can flourish.

For more information about Sun Life’s products and services for business owners, visit sunlife.co/entrepfinancialplan or speak with a Sun Life Financial Advisor today.

By Ralph Fajardo

Ralph is a dynamic writer and marketing communications expert with over 15 years of experience shaping the narratives of numerous brands. His journey through the realms of PR, advertising, news writing, as well as media and marketing communications has equipped him with a versatile skill set and a keen understanding of the industry. Discover more about Ralph's professional journey on his LinkedIn profile.