Thai Credit Bank Advances Financial Knowledge for Modern OTOP Entrepreneurs in Rayong Province, Strengthening Sustainable Community Economy

Thai Credit Bank continues to pursue its “Sustainability Banking” strategy by collaborating with Rayong Province and the Rayong Provincial Community Development Office to enhance the capacity of OTOP entrepreneurs through the training program “Tang-To Know-how: Unlocking Community Business Success for OTOP Entrepreneurs.” The initiative aims to build financial literacy, business management skills, and responsible access to funding, with the ultimate goal of strengthening and sustaining the local economy.

The event, held on May 20, 2025, at the Golden City Hotel in Rayong, was honored by the presence of Ms. Salareewan Thaptavee, Deputy Governor of Rayong Province, who presided over the opening ceremony. Also in attendance were Ms. Jeerapa Boonchaiyo, Director of the Community Development Promotion Division, and Ms. Khemruthai Asavanon, Senior Vice President of Micro Economic Development Department at Thai Credit Bank PCL.

Mr. Kamolphu Phuredithsakul, Deputy Managing Director of the Microfinance and Credit Branch Business Group at Thai Credit Bank, stated: “Thai Credit Bank’s primary goal is to be a ‘Sustainability Bank,’ focusing on balancing business growth with social responsibility. Local economies play a vital role in this vision, with small entrepreneurs and OTOP producers being key drivers of income generation. These groups add value to local resources while preserving their cultural identity.

This training was designed as a hands-on program that enhances entrepreneurs' understanding of community-based business development, financial management, investment planning, and business adaptation in a rapidly changing environment. As consumer behavior evolves and digital channels become central to commerce, this program provides entrepreneurs with critical tools to stay competitive and increase product value to meet modern market demands. Over 100 OTOP entrepreneurs from Rayong participated in the training.”

Ms. Saruta Supawong, owner of ToTomTon Traditional Tom Yum Noodle Shop, shared her experience: “This program gave me a fresh perspective on business operations, particularly in financial planning—such as separating personal and business finances, calculating true costs, and setting clear business goals. It helped me manage working capital more effectively and introduced me to funding sources suitable for small-scale entrepreneurs, which is extremely valuable for scaling up.”

Similarly, Ms. Amonrujee Sophonpatima, owner of Choco Hard, remarked: “This training helped me realize that having a great-tasting product isn’t enough. You also need a brand, a story, and an attractive image. Financial planning is essential—even if your product sells well, lacking reserve funds can cause you to miss out on improvement opportunities.”

Additionally, Thai Credit Bank presented information on its “OTOP Entrepreneur Loan”—a financial product specifically designed to meet the needs of local entrepreneurs. The loan supports responsible funding access, improves liquidity, and empowers entrepreneurs to manage finances and expand their businesses efficiently.

This collaboration between Rayong Province, the Rayong Community Development Office, and Thai Credit Bank is more than just a training initiative. It represents an integrated effort by the government, financial institutions, and community businesses to establish a stable and sustainable economic foundation. It embodies the bank’s philosophy, “Everyone Matters,” which promotes equal and fair access to financial services for all.

Entrepreneurs interested in the OTOP Entrepreneur Loan can visit any Thai Credit Bank branch nationwide or contact 02-697-5454 for more information. Visit the website:  www.thaicreditbank.com