MANILA, Philippines — Building on the momentum of its successful “SM for MSMEs” program in 2025, SM Supermalls is kicking off 2026 with an expanded roadmap designed to upskill and scale Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through its vast nationwide mall network.
The initiative highlights SM’s role as a “big brother” to small businesses, offering them a physical platform to transition from start-ups to regular mall tenants.
Reflecting on 2025 Milestones The previous year served as a springboard for the program’s success:
- Empowering New Players: In 2025 alone, SM empowered 920 new MSMEs and start-ups.
- Conversion Rate: Nearly 10% of these participants successfully transitioned into regular tenants, securing permanent kiosks, counters, or in-line stores.
- Massive Exposure: The mall network hosted 28,761 MSME booth activations, tapping into a surging consumer demand for experience-led, locally made products in food, beauty, and wellness.
- Total Reach: Since its enhanced rollout in 2024, the program has supported a total of 2,288 unique MSMEs.
The 2026 Roadmap SM Supermalls is starting the new year with a fresh slate of regional trade fairs and themed marketplaces:
- DTI Region IV-A Coco Festival (Jan 14–20): Held at SM City San Pablo, featuring coconut-based products and local delicacies.
- Philstar Nakakalokal Bazaar (Jan 16–18): Hosted at SM Seaside City Cebu, showcasing homegrown food, fashion, and crafts from the Visayas and Cordillera regions.
- The Silk Events Bazaar (Jan 28 – Feb 10): A curated artisan market at SM City La Union, targeting tourists and lifestyle shoppers.
Strategic Partnerships The program’s success is anchored in deep collaboration with government and private sector partners, including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Go Negosyo, and various media organizations. “The private sector has a role to play in enabling the future growth of the MSME sector,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “Supporting the grassroots economy is a long-term commitment we intend to uphold.”
Why It Matters With MSMEs accounting for over 99% of businesses and 66% of total employment in the Philippines, SM’s initiative serves as a critical engine for nation-building. By providing prime retail space and mentorship—such as the business insight sessions led by Francis Kong—SM is helping local brands like Famous Belgian Waffle and Rainbow Scoops achieve sustainable growth and reach more communities.
As SM Supermalls continues its 2026 rollout, the “SM for MSMEs” program remains a primary gateway for Filipino entrepreneurs to test their concepts in a world-class retail environment and graduate into the formal economy.