In a landmark event at the Podium Hall in Mandaluyong on November 8, Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) demonstrated its unwavering commitment to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with the launch of UB Negosyante. This cutting-edge solution, a part of UnionBank's 'Powered UP' campaign, aims to empower entrepreneurs and further solidify the bank's standing as a reliable partner for MSMEs.

UB Negosyante: A 'Powered UP' Solution for MSMEs

The launch of UB Negosyante follows the recent accolade received by UnionBank's business banking app, recognized as the Best Smart Payments Solution by an SME Bank at the Global Retail Banking Innovation Awards 2023 in Singapore. The new brand is strategically designed to cater to the diverse needs of MSMEs, offering support to business owners, sole proprietors, and micropreneurs alike.

UnionBank initially introduced the MSME Business Banking app in 2021, and UB Negosyante represents an evolution of this platform, incorporating enhanced tools to propel businesses even further. During the launch event, successful MSME clients were showcased, and Marketing Entrepreneurship Mentor Josiah Go shared valuable innovation tips in a fireside chat with seasoned entrepreneurs Jorge Wieneke and Nene Tamayo-Plamio, hosted by Lia Cruz.

Why UB Negosyante? A Result of Collaboration

According to Dino Velasco, UnionBank Institutional Segment Marketing Head, the rebranding to 'UB Negosyante' emerged from a collaborative effort, including surveys and discussions with business owners and existing MSME clients. The decision was guided by a desire for simplicity and relatability, as revealed by the survey findings.

SMEs face so many challenges due to various pain points which can be discouraging to them. We wanted to address those pain points, so we put together a single user experience through the UB Negosyante app that will address those pain points, may they be related to collection, reconciliation, disbursement, just to name a few. - Jaypee Soliman, UnionBank Business Banking Head

The "Powered UP" Campaign: Inspiring Growth for MSMEs

In tandem with UB Negosyante, UnionBank launched the "Powered UP" campaign, a revitalized version of the "Power to Grow" #WalangMaliitNaBusiness campaign introduced in 2022. The campaign aims to inspire MSMEs, providing insights, tips, and best practices for entrepreneurs while emphasizing UnionBank's role as a steadfast partner in their growth journey.

Revamped Tools and Features with UB Negosyante

Among the upgraded tools offered by UB Negosyante is a feature-rich mobile app, that allows SMEs to perform various financial transactions on the go. Additionally, BizStarter, a basic checking account requiring a low opening and maintaining balance of just P5000, provides accessibility for businesses of all sizes.

QRPH/UPAY for MSMEs is an all-in-one payment acceptance hub, simplifying payment collections through QR codes and links, accommodating payments from various channels such as banks, e-wallets, and over-the-counter transactions.

The suite of solutions under UB Negosyante includes UnionBank GlobalLinker, an online platform enabling SMEs to set up free online stores, enhance online marketing, forge business connections, access exclusive benefits, and learn from experts, aligning with UnionBank’s commitment to helping MSMEs thrive in the digital economy.

These initiatives align with UnionBank’s commitment to the digital transformation of MSMEs, contributing to the nation's growth by supporting Filipino entrepreneurs in digitizing their businesses as part of its Tech-Up Pilipinas advocacy. UB Negosyante is poised to redefine the MSME landscape, offering a comprehensive suite of solutions to propel businesses toward unprecedented success.