The Department of Agriculture-Caraga through the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) will be conducting the 2nd Agribusiness Support for Promotion and Investment in Regional Enterprises (ASPIRE) 2019 on July 26-28, 2019 at Robinsons Place Butuan.

ASPIRE is an agribusiness and marketing program aimed at integrating market development support services to farmers, fisherfolk, micro and small-medium enterprises (MSMEs) and other stakeholders.

The DA’s efforts in initiating a paradigm shift toward agripreneurship are supported by the Department Trade and Industry and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with the National Government Agencies and in coordination with the Local Government Units.

On its second year, emerging by-products of the assisted farmers of the department will be showcased during the three-day regional trade show. Aspiring agripreneurs will be given access to markets and engage in future investments.

“This enterprise development initiative aims to bridge the gap between producer and consumer. DA also wanted to link agripreneurs to market opportunities making agriculture more profitable for the farmers turned entrepreneurs,” said DA Regional Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo.

Various activities and market opportunities will be showcased in the three-day event such as agri-fishery related seminars, agri-fishery trade fair showcasing local value-added products, Halal certified products, and naturally-grown produce. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority – Caraga will also spearhead the skills competition during the event.

The DA-Caraga is inviting all consumers, producers, and other agriculture stakeholders to support and join the ASPIRE 2019.