Question & AnswerQ&A (DOST Administrative Order No. 002, s. 2015)
The main purpose of SETUP is to enable micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to address their technological needs and improve productivity and efficiency through infusion of appropriate technologies, human resource training, consultancy, compliance assistance, and technology acquisition.
Eligible proponents include any MSME with at least three years in business or any government entity operating business-like projects, wholly owned by Filipinos, and willing to adopt technological innovations to improve products, services, or operations.
The program focuses on priority sectors including food processing, furniture, gifts and handicrafts, agriculture/marine/aquaculture, metals and engineering, and other sectors such as ICT and pharmaceuticals.
Support includes technology and knowledge-based interventions such as training and consultancy, and Innovation System Support (ISS) involving provision of technology-related equipment, consultancy, laboratory analysis, packaging design, and acquisition of software.
Required documents include a letter of intent, accomplished Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) Form 1, SETUP Project Proposal Form (Form 1), business permits and licenses, environmental certificates if applicable, business registration certificates, board or legislative resolution if applicable, financial statements for past 3 years, projected financials for 5 years, equipment specifications, and three quotations for equipment.
Proposals up to two million pesos are approved by the Regional Director. Those above two million pesos are evaluated and approved by the DOST-GIA Executive Committee (EXECOM). Prior to approval, proposals are reviewed by the Regional Technical Evaluation Committee (RTEC).
The refund schedule starts twelve months after project commencement and typically spans three to five years depending on project nature and financial capacity, subject to approval by the Regional Director or DOST-GIA EXECOM. Beneficiaries must also pay a technology transfer fee of 0.5% of acquisition cost.
In case of force majeure, a relief of accountability may be requested. Final obligations are computed and collected, and legal action may be pursued if refund is not made. Terminal and financial reports are prepared for project liquidation.
Yes, pulled-out equipment is listed on the SETUP website, stored securely, and made available to new or existing adoptors for technology upgrading projects. If unclaimed for six months, equipment may be donated to State Universities or Colleges with DOST Secretary approval.
The Regional Director acts as Program Director, ensures proper implementation and monitoring, approves proposals up to P2M, handles refund schedules, oversees extension requests, and maintains project documentation within the region.