This year, small businesses and online entrepreneurs continued to flourish, given that more people need to financially survive the impact of the pandemic. Starting an online business also drives owners to make the most out of technology and digital strategies as they continue managing their shops into the new normal.
To help these online sellers grow their businesses, GrabExpress launched the Madiskarteng Boss Club early this year, which is a rewards and loyalty program exclusive to online sellers that aims to help them grow their businesses.
Through this program, entrepreneurs are given access to weekly rebates, exclusive promos codes and rewards, a chance to get featured on the Grab App through ad spaces, exclusive products like cash on delivery and bagged fleet, exclusive event invites, learning opportunities, and access to small business loans.
Grab has chosen the Madiskarteng Boss 20, a diverse group of Filipino entrepreneurs. Some have been operating for years whereas the others opened during the pandemic, but have all grown their businesses by skillfully making the most of innovative digital tools.
Among the members is Nene Tamayo-Plamio, the first winner of “Pinoy Big Brother,” who owns Nene Prime Foods, which stemmed from her love of sardines and growing interest in cooking. She sells jarred goods like pickled chilis, bangus in corn oil, and eight spiced tuyo, among others. These are all homemade with love. This year, the club perks and convenience of the delivery helped boost her business.
Tonette Leachon brought Les Aunor Meat Shop to Facebook and Instagram, selling various fresh meats. Originally an onsite shop at the Farmer’s Market in Cubao, Leachon grabbed the opportunity to take the business online in order to survive the pandemic.
“Please do not be afraid to embrace changes. It may look like a risk but if you seek the proper guidance, it can make a lot of impact not just for your business but also on others. Offer all that you do to God so you can do your best,” Leonen wrote on Instagram.
Through the Grab Madiskarteng Boss Online, Les Aunor Meat Shop was given free ad space on the app and was able to reach more users.
Carmela Jiao is the owner of Likha Lokal, a brand selling bags, organizers, and more accessories using upcycled katsa or flour bags and leftover fabric. Each piece is made by a small group of women from Batangas, where each piece is unique and made with lots of creativity and talent.
Jiao expressed that being part of the Madiskarteng Boss 20 is a milestone for the small business. “Because of the club, I learn a lot from the free and exclusive webinars to help grow my business.”
Next is Saipo Soap is owned by Isabella Madamba. Believing in the concept that skincare is for everyone, the company offers soaps, shampoo bars, and bath bombs in a variety of scents, colors, and applications. Regarding her work and current membership, Madamba expressed, “Being part of a community with like-minded individuals during these difficult times is encouraging.”
Other members of the club are Jamila Co and Jacqueline Go of Coco X Fifi, selling aesthetically pleasing bags, shoes, and clothes fit for any taste.
Monogram Style is led by Grace Santiago Sardea. A shop that personalizes products like jewelry, bags, pillowcases, and pouches, the business also helps jewelers, sewing communities, and women’s livelihood projects.
Kellsey Quiambao founded Activ Green Eco-Services which sells products to promote sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyles.
Nicole Guillermo owns Baba Bake on Instagram, which offers flourless, sugarfree, diabetic, and keto-friendly products. Similarly, online shop Pure & Simple sells keto-friendly and low-carb ingredients.
Georgianna Carlos started Fetch Naturals to provide organic pet food and other animal products.
Nicole Dela Pena and Neven Charpentier started Kuya Crepes as to a way to help the medical frontliners. But because of the great flavors of their French Crepes, orders started coming in until they became a full-fledged online shop.
Larissa Joson leads The Dream Coffee, a brand selling 100% single estate, single origin Philippine Arabica coffee, created together with the T’Boli farmers of South Cotabato.
Melvene Celeste’s Celestea sells premium loose teas which support local farmers as well.
Eleven cousins make up the team of Eleven Baker Street, selling sushi bakes in flavors like Uni Aburi, Truffle Scallop Aburi, and Classic Kani.
Jorge Joseph started Fresh Neighborhood Seafood, a community-based shop sourcing from local seafood exporters.
Ada See of The Juicery Manila creates healthy and nutritious drinks with fruits and vegetables to help boost immunity.
Gemma Gotangco owns the shop Bathgems, offering organic, eco-friendly, and handmade soap, shampoo, conditioners, bath bombs, aroma wax, soy wax, lip balms, essential oils, and more, in different looks and scents.
Agnes Wang of Blooms by Agi presents bouquets, flower arrangements, and pressed flowers sourced from different parts of the Philippines.
Gugma Pabon owns SucculentsPH, which is known for its signature ceramic pots and innovative, contemporary terrariums.
Finally, husband-and-wife Robert and Tasha Tuazon started Backspacer Records due to their love for music and vinyl records.