Shell LiveWIRE

As the flagship enterprise development programme of Shell globally, LiveWIRE focuses on strengthening local economies by promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, and meaningful employment.

We worked closely with local partners to help them adapt their products in order to remain relevant during the pandemic.

For one, PSFI has had a long history of working with the Silangan Ibabao Batis Bulihan Araneta Proper Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SIBBAP-MPC) in Batangas. PSFI provided the cooperative with heavy-duty sewing machines and 3D printers, as well as conducted capacity-building to hone their sewing skills.

Although they were already producing eco-bags, t-shirts, jogging pants, uniforms, and other items of clothing, the cooperative shifted their activities to focus on the creation of relevant products that most consumers would need during the pandemic. This led to the production of PPE clothing and washable face masks, which are essential for people who had to be outside their homes.

The face masks were made available at Shell Select stores, making it easy and convenient for people to purchase them. SIBBAP-MPC was recognized as one of the Top 10 Innovators in the 2020 Global Shell LiveWIRE competition.

PSFI also looked for ways to bridge the gap between community enterprises and Pilipinas Shell’s business community. This involved working with partner farmers, communities of indigenous peoples, and local seamstresses to produce high-quality, unique products for corporate giveaways.

Shell LiveWIRE also worked directly with business experts and consultants to help local start-ups expand and develop through the first run of its Acceleration Programme. This is a three-month programme where participating start-ups are given training, funding support, and mentorship to help grow their businesses and increase their chances of success.

The Shell LiveWIRE Acceleration Programme focused on innovative Filipino enterprises in areas of (1) energy, (2) environment and circular economy, (3) local prosperity, and (4) COVID-19 impact. Apart from the financial support and valuable training, community enterprises that successfully participated in the programme would enhance their brand and strengthen their credibility. They would also have the opportunity to be integrated into the value chain of Pilipinas Shell.

In 2020, there were nine sign-ups for the Acceleration Programme, namely: three tech startup enterprises (Nanotronics, NextPay, and uHoo); three social enterprises (SIBBAP-MPC, Cocohub, and Ecobricks); and three community enterprises (Oro Handmade, Magzwheel, and Revolve Outerwear)