Dominican Welfare Institute Boosts MSMEs, Fuels National Economy

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – The National Institute of Student Welfare (INABIE) announced that more than 80% of its 3,188 suppliers are micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), underscoring the government's commitment to fostering productive inclusion and strengthening a vital sector of the national economy.

Adolfo Pérez, INABIE's executive director, highlighted that over 2,500 of the institution's suppliers are MSMEs. Speaking at the Expo Feria Codopyme 2025, Pérez stated that this makes INABIE one of the public entities generating the most opportunities for local entrepreneurs and producers, thereby boosting commercial ties and economic dynamism nationwide.

“Eight out of every ten companies currently working with INABIE are MSMEs. This figure reflects our dedication to democratizing public procurement and strengthening national talent and production,” Pérez said during his address. “Every contract with an MSME is an investment in our people and the future of the country.”

Fernando Pinales, president of Codopyme, praised INABIE's pivotal role in the growth and revitalization of MSMEs, particularly those involved in supplying goods and services for state social programs.

“INABIE has been a fundamental ally in strengthening the sector. Its openness, transparency, and commitment have enabled more Dominican companies to grow, formalize, and create jobs across the country,” Pinales affirmed.

Since 2020, INABIE has awarded contracts totaling RD$161.01 billion (approximately $2.7 billion USD), with RD$128.86 billion (approximately $2.2 billion USD) specifically allocated to MSMEs. This includes RD$31.98 billion (approximately $540 million USD) directed to women-led businesses.

Pérez explained that through these contracts, INABIE not only ensures the operation of its food and school supply programs but also promotes the sustainability of thousands of businesses that contribute jobs and economic vibrancy to communities.

“We support MSMEs that aim to grow, strengthen, and improve,” Pérez added. “Let's collaborate to become a benchmark for quality and social responsibility. Together, we are stronger.”

He also noted the progress of an agreement between INABIE and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs (MICM), which has provided training to 1,402 suppliers and 92 institutional collaborators. This initiative aims to enhance technical competencies and transparency in procurement processes.

INABIE's participation in Expo Feria Mipymes 2025 demonstrated its commitment to open, inclusive public management focused on national development, according to Pérez. He emphasized that when the state procures with purpose, MSMEs grow, and the country advances.

Other attendees at the event included INABIE's deputy directors Gilberto Santana, Luis Valdez, and Melvin Ramírez, along with various directors and managers from the institution. Representatives from the MSME sector, led by Codopyme Executive Director Isabel Puig, were also present.

The three-day Expo Feria Codopyme 2025, which concluded today, served as a strategic platform to boost productivity and growth within the country's MSME sector. The event brought together key public sector institutions, including INABIE, the National Institute for Technical Professional Training (Infotep), the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs, and the National Council for the Promotion and Support of Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (Promipyme), among other organizations and figures.