Starting your own business can be challenging, especially if you don’t have the right skills or training. Good thing, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) offers free and affordable training programs that can help Filipinos build businesses from scratch. Whether you’re dreaming of running a food stall, a salon, or even a repair shop, TESDA provides hands-on skills training that can serve as your stepping stone to entrepreneurship.
TESDA courses are not only designed to make you employable but also to prepare you to become self-reliant and capable of launching your own small business. In this guide, we’ll explore the best TESDA courses for starting your own business, their benefits, and how you can enroll to jumpstart your entrepreneurial journey.
Why TESDA Courses are Perfect for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
TESDA courses are practical, skills-based, and industry-aligned. Here’s why they’re ideal for those who want to start their own business:
- Affordable or Free – Many courses are free through the TESDA Online Program (TOP) or offered at a minimal cost in training centers.
- Short-Term – Most programs can be completed in just weeks or a few months, perfect for those who want to start quickly.
- Hands-On Training – TESDA provides real-world experience through laboratory work, kitchen practice, workshops, and simulations.
- National Certification (NC) – A TESDA NC certificate boosts your credibility when starting a business and assures customers of your competence.
With the right TESDA training, you don’t just gain skills—you gain confidence to build your own livelihood.
Best TESDA Courses for Starting Your Own Business
Here’s a list of TESDA courses that are excellent for Filipinos who want to run their own businesses:
1. Bread and Pastry Production NC II
If you’ve always dreamed of having your own bakery or café, this course is perfect.
- What you’ll learn: Baking bread, cakes, pastries, cookies, and desserts.
- Business opportunities: Start a home-based bakery, online pastry shop, or supply baked goods to cafés and restaurants.
- Why it’s great: Low start-up cost and high demand for baked products.
2. Cookery NC II
Filipinos love food businesses, and this course equips you with culinary skills to start your own eatery or catering service.
- What you’ll learn: Food preparation, cooking international and local dishes, kitchen management.
- Business opportunities: Karinderya, catering services, food delivery business, or food cart.
- Why it’s great: Food businesses are always in demand and can easily start from home.
3. Food and Beverage Services NC II
This course is ideal for aspiring café or restaurant owners.
- What you’ll learn: Customer service, handling food and drinks, barista skills, and basic hospitality.
- Business opportunities: Coffee shop, small restaurant, or food stall.
- Why it’s great: Pairs well with cookery and baking courses for a complete food business package.
4. Housekeeping NC II
Perfect for those who want to start a cleaning services business.
- What you’ll learn: Proper cleaning methods, laundry services, guestroom management, and sanitation.
- Business opportunities: Home and office cleaning services, laundry shop, or Airbnb property management.
- Why it’s great: Growing demand for reliable cleaning services in urban areas.
5. Beauty Care Services (Nail Care & Skin Care) NC II
Beauty is a booming industry, and TESDA offers training for nail technicians and skincare specialists.
- What you’ll learn: Manicure, pedicure, nail art, facial treatments, and basic skincare.
- Business opportunities: Nail salon, spa, or home-service beauty business.
- Why it’s great: High profit margin and flexible location—can be home-based or mobile.
6. Hairdressing NC II
Another in-demand skill is hairstyling, which opens doors to a thriving salon business.
- What you’ll learn: Haircutting, coloring, perming, and hairstyling.
- Business opportunities: Salon, barbershop, or freelance hairdressing services.
- Why it’s great: A steady stream of customers since hair care is a necessity.
7. Massage Therapy NC II
If you want to venture into wellness, this course is an excellent choice.
- What you’ll learn: Different massage techniques, client handling, and wellness practices.
- Business opportunities: Spa, home-service massage, or wellness clinic.
- Why it’s great: Low startup capital with consistent client demand.
8. Tailoring / Dressmaking NC II
The fashion and clothing repair industry is always relevant, especially in communities.
- What you’ll learn: Sewing, pattern-making, clothing repair, and dressmaking.
- Business opportunities: Tailoring shop, dressmaking business, or online clothing line.
- Why it’s great: Offers creative freedom and customization services.
9. Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II
For those interested in technical services, this course equips you to start your own repair business.
- What you’ll learn: Wiring installation, electrical maintenance, troubleshooting.
- Business opportunities: Electrical services, appliance repair, or subcontracting for construction.
- Why it’s great: High demand for skilled electricians everywhere.
10. Automotive Servicing NC II
If you’re interested in cars and machines, this course is a good investment.
- What you’ll learn: Vehicle maintenance, repair, and servicing.
- Business opportunities: Auto repair shop, motorbike servicing, or mobile mechanic services.
- Why it’s great: Car ownership in the Philippines continues to rise, ensuring steady demand.
How to Enroll in TESDA Courses
Here’s a simple guide to get started with TESDA training:
- Visit the TESDA Website – Go to www.e-tesda.gov.ph for available courses.
- Choose Your Course – Select a course that fits your business goals.
- Find a Training Center – Look for a TESDA-accredited center near your area.
- Submit Requirements – Common requirements include:
- 2×2 ID pictures
- Copy of birth certificate
- School credentials (diploma or Form 137)
- Valid ID
- Attend Training – Depending on the course, training may last from a few weeks to several months.
- Get Certified – Pass the assessment to earn your National Certificate (NC).
Tips for Turning TESDA Skills into a Business
- Start Small – Begin with a home-based business to reduce costs.
- Leverage Online Marketing – Promote your services through Facebook, TikTok, and online marketplaces.
- Offer Packages or Discounts – Attract first-time customers with affordable promos.
- Focus on Quality – Word of mouth is powerful; satisfied clients will recommend your services.
- Keep Learning – TESDA offers advanced courses you can take to upgrade your skills.
Final Thoughts
Starting your own business doesn’t always require a big capital—it requires the right skills and determination. TESDA offers a wide range of courses that can help Filipinos turn their passions into profitable businesses. Whether it’s food, beauty, wellness, fashion, or technical services, there’s a TESDA course that can equip you with the knowledge and certification you need to succeed.
If you’re planning to become an entrepreneur, the best time to start is now. Explore TESDA courses, sharpen your skills, and take the leap toward financial independence through your very own business.
Read Also: Best Vocational Courses Offered by TESDA
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