The Ministry of Information and Communications Technologies (MinTIC) launched the call for its ’Your Business Online’ 2024 program, an initiative that supports the digitalization of micro, small and medium-sized business entrepreneurs, merchants and members of the popular economy and community. With the aim of increasing its competitiveness, the program will offer beneficiaries virtual stores, advice, training and technical support to strengthen their presence in electronic commerce.
“In 2023, ‘Your Business Online’ had 5,688 beneficiaries in the 32 departments and 518 municipalities of the country, becoming a successful initiative of the ICT Ministry. That is why it returns this year, since the entity remains committed to the digital transformation of Colombia and the strengthening of MSMEs and the popular and community economy, offering all the tools so that these entrepreneurs and merchants can sell online to reach new markets. and improve their sales processes,” emphasized the ICT Minister, Mauricio Lizcano.
In collaboration with the Mayor’s Office of Pereira, the program is aimed especially at entrepreneurs in the city, with priority for those located in rural areas and in agribusiness, tourism and commerce sectors. Andrés Vásquez, ICT secretary of Pereira, highlighted the importance of this local initiative: “Currently in the city of Pereira there are multiple merchants, micro and small businesses that do not have the resources or access to technologies to advertise their products through pages. web. Taking this situation into account, MinTIC, with the support of the Mayor’s Office of Pereira, has opened a call that will allow these entrepreneurs to promote their products and improve their sales through web portals designed and built at no cost, so that they can be used by each entrepreneurship. With this we seek for companies in our city to achieve greater visibility, thus increasing their reach and generating a positive impact on the local economy.”
For his part, Santiago Molina Gómez, operational director of Information and Digital Services, explained: “People who register in the call will have a completely free virtual store, technical support for two years, personalized advice to optimize their ventures, access to a 24/7 online training platform and group sessions to strengthen your digital skills and develop your virtual stores professionally. This will allow them to make their products known in the digital market and thus increase their opportunities.”
Registration will be open until 5,022 places are available for all economic sectors that meet the requirements. Priority will be given to the Agro, tourism and commerce sectors, and especially to enterprises located in rural areas. People interested in participating can register by entering the official page of the Mayor’s Office of Pereira at www.pereira.gov.co.
Interview: Bridging the Digital Divide – ‘Your Business Online’ Program
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to our interview series. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Claudia Jiménez, an expert in digital entrepreneurship and innovation. Dr. Jiménez, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Claudia Jiménez (CJ): Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss such an important initiative for Colombia’s small enterprises.
TNE: Let’s dive right in. The Ministry of Information and Communications Technologies, or MinTIC, recently kicked off its ‘Your Business Online’ program for 2024. What do you perceive as the significance of this initiative for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Colombia?
CJ: This program is critical for several reasons. First, MSMEs are the backbone of the Colombian economy. They contribute significantly to job creation and local innovation. However, many struggle with the transition to digital platforms, which can help them access wider markets. By providing virtual stores, training, and technical support, ‘Your Business Online’ empowers these businesses to enhance their competitiveness and sustainability.
TNE: Last year, the program reached over 5,600 beneficiaries. What impact do you think that level of support had?
CJ: The numbers speak volumes. The success of the 2023 initiative demonstrates that when these entrepreneurs receive tailored assistance, they can thrive. The outreach to all 32 departments and to 518 municipalities means that this initiative bridged geographical gaps, allowing rural businesses, in particular, to participate in e-commerce. It’s a great step towards regional equity.
TNE: You mentioned rural businesses and sectors like agriculture and tourism. Why do you think these areas were prioritized, particularly in collaboration with local authorities like Pereira’s Mayor’s Office?
CJ: Prioritizing these sectors makes a lot of sense. In Colombia, rural areas often face challenges like limited access to technology and markets. Agribusinesses have immense potential for growth through digital sales platforms. By collaborating with local authorities, the program ensures that support is customized to the local economic landscape, meaning it directly addresses the unique challenges faced by those entrepreneurs.
TNE: ICT Minister Mauricio Lizcano emphasized the commitment to digital transformation. How essential is this digital shift for Colombia as a whole?
CJ: It’s essential! Digital transformation provides opportunities for growth, innovation, and resilience. For Colombia, embracing this shift can lead to increased productivity, better access to global markets, and higher customer engagement. Moreover, it aligns with the global trend towards digital economies, ensuring that Colombian businesses remain competitive on an international scale.
TNE: Given your expertise, what advice would you give to entrepreneurs who are hesitant about engaging with digital tools?
CJ: My advice would be to start small. Embrace the resources offered through programs like ‘Your Business Online’ and take advantage of the training and support available. Building an online presence is no longer optional; it’s a necessity. Networking with peers who have successfully made the leap to digital can also provide encouragement and insights.
TNE: Lastly, looking ahead, where do you see the future of small businesses in Colombia with initiatives like this one?
CJ: I’m optimistic. If programs like ‘Your Business Online’ continue to evolve and expand, we will likely see a vibrant ecosystem of digital entrepreneurs across Colombia. It can help create a self-sustaining cycle where successful businesses inspire others to invest in digital technologies, ultimately driving economic growth and innovation in the country.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Jiménez, for your insights. It’s clear that the future is bright for Colombia’s entrepreneurs willing to embrace digitalization.
CJ: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this vital topic. I look forward to seeing how these initiatives unfold!
TNE: And thank you to our readers for joining us in exploring the promising future of Colombia’s small businesses through digital transformation. Stay tuned for more insights!
