The Department of Agriculture-Caraga through the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) will launch the Agribusiness Support for Promotion and Investment in Regional Expositions (ASPIRE) 2018 on October 12-14, 2018 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 agri-preneurship 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.

It is expected that emerging by-products of the assisted farmers of the Department will be showcased during the three-day regional trade show. Aspiring agri-preneurs will be given access to markets and engage in future investments.

“This enterprise development initiative will integrate DA programs through investment promotions, market opportunities, and enterprise development to make agriculture profitable for farmers,” 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, and skills competition spearheaded by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority – Caraga.

ASPIRE is a strategy to enhance profitability, sustainability, and competitiveness among the local farmers in the region.

DA-Caraga is inviting all consumers, producers, and other agriculture stakeholders to support and join the ASPIRE. (Rhea Abao/DA13)