The Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) is a capacity-building initiative designed to provide impoverished and marginalized communities with access to resources and skills for improving their socio-economic status.
The program, administered by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), leverages both microenterprise development and employment facilitation to empower participants.
Historically, SLP evolved from the Self-Employment Assistance Kaunlaran (SEA-K) Program, which began as an effort to combat poverty by building social capital at the community level.
1. Program Objectives and Structure
The primary goal of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) is to improve the economic status of the poor and marginalized by enhancing their skills and providing access to resources necessary for sustainable livelihoods.
The two track approach supports the establishment and sustainability of small businesses by providing participants with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources. It focuses on organizational and economic viability, helping individuals to start and maintain their own microenterprises.
2. Community-Driven Enterprise Development (CDED) Approach
The Community-Driven Enterprise Development (CDED) approach is a fundamental aspect of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). This method involves empowering communities to actively participate in and manage their economic development initiatives.
Key Components of the CDED Approach
- Resource Identification: Communities assess and identify local resources that can be utilized for enterprise development.
- Capacity Building: Training and support are provided to enhance local skills and managerial capacities.
- Project Implementation: Communities lead the development and management of local enterprises based on identified resources and capacities.
Promotion of Local Economic Development (LED)
The CDED approach promotes Local Economic Development (LED) by encouraging the production and consumption of local goods and services, thereby stimulating local economies.
Ways CDED Promotes LED
- Enhancing Local Capacities: By developing skills and entrepreneurial capabilities, local residents can start and grow businesses, creating jobs and boosting local income.
- Stimulating Local Investment: With support and training, community members are more likely to invest in local enterprises, further driving economic activity.
- Improving Market Access: CDED helps connect local businesses to wider markets, including linking them to supply chains and larger market systems.
Integration into Value Chain Production
Integrating community enterprises into larger value chains is a critical component of the CDED approach.
Steps for Integration into Value Chain Production
- Market Analysis: Understanding market demands and requirements to tailor products and services.
- Partnership Building: Establishing connections with businesses along the value chain to ensure smooth integration.
- Quality Improvement: Continuously enhancing product quality to meet market standards and consumer expectations.
Key Activities in CDED Approach for LED and Value Chain Integration
| Activity | Description | Impact on LED | Role in Value Chain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skill Development | Training in specific trades and business management | Enhances local employment and income levels | Prepares businesses for value chain requirements |
| Financial Access | Facilitating loans and credit for small businesses | Increases local investment | Enables scaling and meeting demand |
| Market Linkages | Connecting local businesses with regional and national markets | Expands market reach | Secures position in the value chain |
3. Capacity Building and Support
The Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) offers a diverse range of training programs designed to equip participants with the necessary skills for entrepreneurship and employment.
Key Training Areas Include
- Business Management Skills: Basic accounting, financial management, and operational management.
- Technical Skills: Specific to the type of microenterprise or job role, such as agricultural techniques, handicraft production, or retail management.
- Marketing and Sales: Training on market research, product positioning, customer service, and sales strategies.
- Product Development: Innovating and improving products to meet market demands.
- Financial Literacy: Understanding credit, budgeting, and financial planning.
Partnerships with NGOs and the Private Sector
These collaborations help bridge gaps in funding, training, and market access that the program alone may not fully address.
Notable Partnerships Include
- NGOs: Often provide sector-specific expertise and additional training resources. They can also assist in community mobilization and advocacy.
- Private Sector: Collaborations can include corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, direct investment in local enterprises, or providing market access to emerging businesses.
- Educational Institutions: Offer technical training and research support, helping to innovate and improve training methodologies.
Examples of Successful Partnerships
- SM Foundation: Assists with agricultural training and market access for farmers.
- Kapampangan Development Foundation (KDF): Provides skills training in various trades like meat processing and honeybee keeping.
- BPI-Globe BanKo: Offers financial services such as savings programs and microinsurance tailored to the needs of SLP participants.
These partnerships enhance the capacity-building efforts of the SLP by providing comprehensive support across various stages of business and employment preparation.