Aiko Reyes is the Co-founder and COO of Peddlr! They help MSMEs in the Philippines manage everything from inventory and business finances to accepting payments and creating online stores— all on their phones.

👋🏼  How would you explain your job to someone outside tech?

I put different types of small business owners in an online community to share business and trade tips, keep motivating each other and help them recover from this pandemic and beyond.

🧐  What's something about you or your job that would surprise us?

Working directly with micro and small business owners is an incredible experience. Bringing simple process automation that saves them time and improves their daily grind gives me total happiness and satisfaction.

‍

🏆  What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

Creating and leading a hyper-engaged community of micro and small businesses in the Philippines.

🔍  What's a startup trend or space you're watching this year?

Fintech is an exciting space in Philippines right now! The Philippines' Central Bank announced a three-year strategic plan to incentivize the proliferation of available finance in the country. This is to provide more financial choices to customers, increase access to financial products and improve the tools available for MSMEs to run their businesses efficiently.

Plus, NFTs, and I'm sure you know why!

💼  What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry?

Do something that you love! If your heart's not in it, the temptation to bail during difficult times will be high. If you can do something you love, you'll have more motivation to persevere.

🗣  What's one thing you can keep talking about for hours?

Peddlr!

🎥  What's your favorite movie/TV show?

Itaewon Class.

🍨  What's your go-to ice cream flavor?

Baskin Robbins' Strawberry cheesecake!