Scaling Beyond Small: Australia-Backed Program Funds Filipina Entrepreneurs in Building Sustainable Gender-Equitable Enterprises

  

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — An innovative funding program backed by the Australian government was recently launched, encouraging further improvement in gender equity business practices while giving women-led and women-owned businesses in the Philippines scalable access to growth capital.

Called SheSecure, the funding program is an investment product that applies a “gender lens” in support of the growth capital needs of women-owned and women-led small businesses (WSBs) in the Philippines.

SheSecure offers financing of up to PHP 30 million per enterprise together with interest incentives tied to improvements in gender equality practices. These funds can be utilized by the enterprises to fuel expansion, invest in new technologies, or support their working capital requirements.

It was developed by ARQ SME Business Development Company (ARQ SME BDC), a pioneering SME-focused debt and mezzanine investor, in collaboration with the Australian-funded Investing in Women initiative.

The Australian Embassy’s Deputy Head of Mission, Dr. Moya Collett, led the launch of the financing program in Makati City on December 5, 2024.  “Australia is committed to supporting gender equality, and we are investing in women’s economic empowerment to help achieve this,” said Dr Collett.  “Australia is pleased to support local partnerships that develop innovative solutions such as SheSecure by ARQ because evidence shows that incorporating a gender lens into an investment strategy improves financial performance and impact outcomes for investors.”

Bridging critical gaps for women entrepreneurs by offering "unfair advantages"

Also supporting the launch of SheSecure are Edmund Solilapsi, Co-Managing Partner of ARQ SME BDC; Maita Madlambayan, President & COO of HausTalk; Jojo Malolos, CEO of PayMongo, Eleanor Keppelman, Impact Investing Director of Investing in Women; Ann Cuisia, Founder and CEO of Traxion Tech, Abetina Valenzuela-Mader, Founder and CEO of EQUILIFE, Monette Iturralde-Hamlin, Chair of TeamAsia, and master of ceremonies Lia Guerrero-Santos.

“SheSecure was developed to tackle two critical gaps faced by larger women-led and women-owned small businesses in the Philippines,” said Abigail Tan, ARQ SME BDC Managing Partner.

“The lack of appropriate capital is a major obstacle for growth. By offering tailored financing paired with strategic support, SheSecure aims to help bridge this gap for women entrepreneurs ready to scale,” she noted.

The SheSecure launch program was also a venue for women founders such as Maita Madlambayan (HausTalk), Ann Cuisia (Traxion), Abetina Valenzuela-Mader (EQUILIFE), and Monette Iturralde-Hamlin (TeamAsia) to converge and tackle the importance of capital access for women entrepreneurs, as well as share insights from their respective entrepreneurial journeys.

Valenzuela-Mader, a two-time founder in the healthcare industry, having built EQUILIFE and co-founded Kindred Health, spoke of leveraging “unfair advantages” to get ahead in business.

“We have different unfair advantages. [My family] was mine, and SheSecure is another unfair advantage. So don’t be hesitant to explore how you can get ahead with certain available funds or partnerships. If it’s available to you, then search it out. If it’s not your family, it’s things like [SheSecure], which were not available before.”

Addressing the ‘double bottomline’ 

With a strong commitment to the "double bottomline" approach, SheSecure is designed to drive financial profitability and social responsibility by fostering gender equality in business.

"By providing incentives linked to measurable progress in gender performance, SheSecure empowers companies to mainstream gender equality—ensuring opportunities and leadership roles are accessible to everyone, regardless of gender,” said Tan.

Speaking as a Male CEO Ally of the SheSecure launch event, PayMongo CEO Jojo Malolos spoke of the power of creating more diverse, equitable, and inclusive work cultures.

“When we create a space for diversity, when we champion women and value their perspectives, amazing things happen. But let's not sugar coat it. Women and entrepreneurs face challenges that their male counterparts don't. So we need to be more than just cheering from the sidelines and actively breaking down the barriers that hold women back. It's not charity — it's strategy. And when women succeed, businesses flourish, and we've proven that communities thrive and economies grow stronger,” Malolos pointed out.

Creating a ‘win-win’ network for women-led businesses and for society

While SheSecure has specific criteria, ARQ SME BDC is committed to connecting applicants to suitable sources of capital, even if they don't fully meet the program's qualifications. This initiative aligns with the broader vision of creating “gender-smart enterprises” that deliver strong financial returns alongside positive social impact.

"Our goal with SheSecure is to nurture progressive growth-oriented businesses that seek to further adopt and improve their gender-inclusive practices while being the “unfair advantage” as the SME captures visible opportunities" Tan added. "By prioritizing both profit and social progress, we create a win-win for businesses, their customers, and society as a whole."

To learn more about SheSecure, visit https://www.arqcapital.com/shesecure.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Nusantara Global Network Announces Strategic Partnership with CXM Direct to Recruit Introducing Brokers Across Southeast Asia

  

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 14/1/2025 – Nusantara Global Network, a leading company in digital marketing and business development, is proud to announce a strategic partnership with renowned online broker, CXM Direct. This collaboration aims to strengthen the Introducing Broker (IB) program of CXM Direct across Southeast Asia, providing brokers with access to opportunities and technology capable of significantly enhancing their business.

The partnership between Nusantara Global Network and CXM Direct marks an important step in strengthening their position in the regional financial market. Nusantara will leverage its extensive experience in digital marketing to help CXM Direct develop a more dynamic and user-friendly Introducing Broker (IB) program, offering brokers various benefits and support to help them succeed.

Opportunities and Benefits for Introducing Brokers (IB)

Introducing Brokers (IB) who join this program will enjoy a wide range of benefits, including access to a sophisticated trading platform, competitive spreads, and fast execution. Additionally, IBs will receive comprehensive support such as customized promotional materials and technical guidance from both Nusantara Global Network and CXM Direct.

“We are very excited to partner with CXM Direct, a broker committed to innovation and providing high-quality services to its clients,” said the CEO of Nusantara Global Network. “This partnership allows us to empower Introducing Brokers (IB) of CXM Direct in Southeast Asia by providing them with the necessary tools to thrive in an increasingly competitive trading environment.”

 

CXM Direct: Commitment to the Best Trading Experience

CXM Direct is well-known in the online trading industry for its commitment to providing the best customer experience, offering a variety of financial instruments from Forex to commodities and indices. Its advanced technology and competitive trading conditions make CXM Direct a top choice for Introducing Brokers (IB) looking to provide more value to their clients.

“We are very pleased with this collaboration with Nusantara Global Network. It is an opportunity to expand our reach in the Southeast Asian region and offer exceptional support to Introducing Brokers (IB),” said CXM Direct. “We are confident that this synergy will bring great benefits to the brokers joining our program and provide their clients with a better trading experience.”

Raising Awareness and Access to Trading Opportunities

Southeast Asia is a dynamic market with significant growth potential in online trading. This partnership aims to open more opportunities for Introducing Brokers (IB) who want to participate in this rapidly growing industry. With strategic support from Nusantara Global Network, CXM Direct will empower brokers with the skills, technology, and marketing support they need to maximize their potential.

About CXM Direct

CXM Direct is an online broker providing access to a variety of asset classes, including Forex, commodities, and indices. Known for its user-friendly trading platform, attractive trading conditions, and excellent customer support, CXM Direct is a top choice for both traders and Introducing Brokers (IB).

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

The Evolution of Media: Strategies for Adapting to Rapid Technological Changes

 

In today’s fast-paced world, rapid technological advancements are changing industries, economies, and personal lives. To stay competitive and resilient in this environment (which is challenging), individuals and organizations must proactively adapt. There are several strategies to navigate and thrive amid technological changes: however, it’s important to remember that flexibility is key. Although some may find it difficult to keep up, embracing these changes can lead to new opportunities. This is essential because those who adapt quickly will likely succeed in the long run.

1. Embrace Lifelong Learning

Stay Informed (it’s important): Follow industry trends, attend webinars, and read about emerging technologies to keep up with changes. Upskill Regularly: Take online courses, attend workshops, and earn certifications in relevant technologies or tools. However, you should also encourage curiosity. Cultivate a growth mindset (because) it helps you remain open to new ideas and innovation. Although some may find it difficult, this approach can lead to greater success.

2. Develop Digital Literacy

Learning basic tech skills is crucial (1) for today’s world. Understanding how to use common software, cloud systems, and digital communication tools is essential. However, it’s also important to understand data security: familiarize yourself with cybersecurity practices to protect sensitive information. Experimenting with tools is a great way to gain experience. Explore new apps, platforms, or systems that are relevant to your field, because this will help you build confidence in using them. Although it might seem challenging at first, the effort pays off in the end.

3. Build a Flexible and Agile Mindset

Adapt Quickly (1): Be ready to change workflows or adjust strategies as new technologies come up. Focus on Problem-Solving: Use technology as a tool to solve problems, however, don't see it as a threat. Embrace Uncertainty: Accept that change is constant, although it can be challenging, and develop resilience to handle disruptions effectively (2). This ability is important because it helps individuals and organizations thrive in a rapidly evolving environment.

4. Leverage Collaborative Networks

Joining professional communities is important (because) networking with peers helps to exchange knowledge about technological developments. Participating in industry events, such as conferences, hackathons, and trade shows, can offer exposure to new tech and ideas. However, seeking mentorship is also crucial. Learning from tech-savvy colleagues or industry leaders can guide your adaptation efforts, although it may seem intimidating at first. This way, you can stay ahead in the game!

5. Adopt a Strategic Approach

Align with Goals: It's important to identify how new technologies (like AI and cloud computing) can contribute to personal or organizational objectives. Invest Wisely: You should prioritize technologies that offer the highest return on investment (ROI) because they can boost efficiency or growth. Evaluate Continuously: However, it's essential to periodically assess the effectiveness of adopted technologies and be willing to replace outdated ones. Although this may seem challenging, staying updated is crucial for success.

6. Foster an Innovative Culture

Encouraging experimentation is important (1). You should create an environment where trying new tools and methods is welcomed. However, it's also essential to reward innovation: recognize efforts to adopt or innovate with technology within your team (or organization). Although some may hesitate, promoting collaboration is key. This means fostering cross-functional teams to explore how technology can solve interdisciplinary challenges. But remember, the success of these efforts often depends on the mindset of the individuals involved.

7. Be Proactive About Change Management

Communicate effectively (this is key): Ensure stakeholders understand new technologies' purpose and benefits. Provide training: Offer hands-on training sessions to help ease transitions to new systems. Monitor implementation: It's important to keep track of adoption rates, however, you should also address resistance or challenges proactively. Because of this, being prepared can make a big difference in the success of the new technology.

8. Focus on Soft Skills

Cultivating adaptability is important (1) because it helps you build resilience and be open to change. Improving critical thinking is also essential; you need to evaluate the relevance and impact of new technologies effectively. Strengthening collaboration skills is necessary, however, it’s vital to work well with diverse teams to integrate technology seamlessly. Although these skills are different, they all contribute to a successful future.

9. Engage with Emerging Technologies

Experimenting with AI and Automation can help improve productivity and efficiency (however, it's important to know how to use these tools effectively). When you explore Cloud Computing, you can learn about remote storage and access systems that help streamline operations. Dive into IoT and Blockchain too, because these technologies are reshaping industries in significant ways. Maintaining a good work-life balance is crucial amid tech changes. You should set boundaries to avoid burnout (this means establishing clear limits for work and personal time). Leverage productivity tools, such as apps that help manage time, prioritize tasks, and organize workflows. Focus on well-being as well, although it can be challenging to cope with the stress of constant changes. By adopting these strategies, individuals and organizations can survive and thrive in a world driven by rapid technological advancement.

About Kwento Co

Kwento Co is a diverse and dynamic media and information literacy website. We are a team of accomplished content creators, artists, influencers, and young entrepreneurs passionate about helping micro and macro-sized businesses market their services through effective digital marketing strategies tailored to their brands.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

Nusantara Global Network and FBS Broker Launch Innovative Introducing Broker (IB) Program

 

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 11 January 2025 – Nusantara Global Network (NGN) proudly announces a new strategic partnership with FBS Broker to launch a highly innovative Introducing Broker (IB) program. This partnership aims to empower aspiring brokers and expand market access by equipping them with the necessary tools, training, and ongoing support to thrive in the competitive financial sector.

The collaboration between Nusantara Global Network and FBS Broker creates a golden opportunity for individuals to confidently enter the financial markets. Participants in this Introducing Broker (IB) FBS program will benefit from a variety of resources, including a state-of-the-art trading platform, comprehensive educational materials, and personalized guidance from industry experts.

“This collaboration with FBS Broker marks a significant milestone for Nusantara Global Network as we continue to enhance our offerings and support the development of new brokers,” said the Head of Nusantara Global Network. “By providing aspiring brokers with the training and resources they need, we aim to cultivate a new generation of financial professionals who will drive growth within the trading industry.”

Key Benefits of the Introducing Broker (IB) FBS Program

The IB FBS program offers numerous advantages for participants, including:

Attractive Commission Structure: Brokers can earn competitive commissions based on their clients' trading activity.

Innovative Trading Tools: Access to advanced trading platforms and tools to help brokers manage their business efficiently.

Ongoing Education: Continuous learning opportunities to enhance brokers' knowledge and trading strategies.

Networking Opportunities: Participants will join a vibrant community that promotes collaboration and knowledge sharing, enabling brokers to learn from each other’s experiences.

A representative from FBS Broker commented, “Partnering with Nusantara Global Network allows us to extend our reach and provide aspiring brokers with the guidance they need to succeed. We believe this collaboration will not only elevate the skills of new brokers but also enhance the overall professionalism in the trading industry.”

This initiative is aligned with current industry trends that focus on financial inclusion and market accessibility. By emphasizing education and support, Nusantara Global Network and FBS Broker aim to close the skills gap and empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue rewarding careers in trading.

Learn More and Get Involved

For more information on the Introducing Broker (IB) FBS program and how to join, please visit our website or click here for further details.

About FBS Broker

FBS Broker is a globally recognized financial firm committed to providing high-quality trading services with a focus on customer satisfaction. Known for its innovation and commitment to education, FBS simplifies the trading experience while delivering the tools needed for success.

About Nusantara Global Network

Nusantara Global Network is a leading financial services provider in Malaysia, dedicated to offering cutting-edge trading solutions and promoting financial literacy. By fostering partnerships and integrating the latest technology, Nusantara Global Network aims to elevate the trading landscape and empower individuals in the financial industry.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES