BANGKOK, Thailand – The government has reported that 150 people have purchased franchise packages through the “Thais Help Thais: Franchise Career Plus” program, which supports people starting small businesses. Applications remain open until August 31, with more applicants currently completing enrollment. The program covers 50% of the cost of franchise packages priced at up to 100,000 baht, with government support capped at 10,000 baht per applicant. Participants can choose from more than 100 approved franchise brands. Food and beverage businesses have attracted the most interest, including street food, coffee, Thai milk tea, fruit smoothies, and noodle shops, followed by education-related and service businesses such as laundry and dry cleaning.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Perisvivatana said the government is also working with SME D Bank, Krung Thai Bank, the Government Savings Bank, and the Thai Credit Guarantee Corporation to provide access to low-interest loans and loan guarantees for new entrepreneurs. It has also partnered with CP Axtra Plc. to offer participants sales space at more than 2,000 Lotus’s and Makro stores, covering more than 10,000 sales locations nationwide, along with a six-month exemption from rental fees. Participants will also be able to use the Tung Ngern digital payment application to join the “Thais Help Thais Plus 60/40” economic stimulus program. (NNT)
