After a year of strong momentum, SM Supermalls enters 2026 with a sharpened mission: to strengthen the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by leveraging its nationwide mall network to deliver real business growth opportunities. As the backbone of the Philippine economy, MSMEs remain central to job creation, community development, and sustainable national progress.
Through the SM for MSMEs program, SM Supermalls supported 920 new MSMEs and start-ups in 2025, with nearly 10% successfully transitioning into regular mall tenants through kiosks, counters, and in-line stores. Since the program’s enhanced rollout in March 2024, it has empowered 2,288 unique MSMEs, providing accessible, real-world platforms where entrepreneurs can test products, learn from consumers, and scale sustainably.
In 2025 alone, 28,761 MSME booth activations were launched nationwide—reflecting rising consumer demand for locally made, experience-driven products across food, beverage, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle sectors.
Honoring MSME Excellence and Innovation
A key highlight of SM’s commitment is the annual SM for MSMEs Wall of Champions, which celebrates MSMEs that demonstrate resilience, innovation, and community impact. With business owners and government partners in attendance, the event recognizes how entrepreneurs contribute to national growth and help shape the future of Philippine retail.
“The private sector has a critical role in shaping the future of MSMEs,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “Supporting the grassroots economy is a long-term commitment we intend to uphold.”
“SM is like a big brother to small businesses like us,” said Euclid S. Cezar, President and CEO of Famous Belgian Waffle and a 2025 Medium Enterprise Finalist. “Being recognized motivates us to innovate and reach more communities.”
Strengthening MSMEs Through Strategic Partnerships
SM Supermalls continues to collaborate with industry partners—including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Go Negosyo, media organizations, trade fair organizers, and MSME groups—to deliver learning summits, curated markets, and large-scale trade fairs that unlock business opportunities nationwide.
According to DTI, MSMEs make up 99.63% of all businesses and 66.58% of total employment in the Philippines, highlighting their vital role in inclusive economic growth.
Major 2025 MSME highlights included:
DTI National Food Fair
Negros Trade Fair
Women Strong Trade Fair (WomenBizPH)
VIYLine MSME Caravan featuring digital creators Cong TV, Viy Cortez, and the VIYLine team
Go Negosyo MSME Summit 2025, headlined by business mentor Francis Kong with the session “Now and Next: The Trends in Business for MSMEs”
These events transformed SM malls into dynamic business hubs where MSMEs gained visibility, mentorship, and direct customer engagement.
Expanding MSME Opportunities Across the Country
With its national footprint, SM Supermalls amplified regional growth by rolling out larger and more accessible trade fairs across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Signature events such as the Negros Trade Fair at SMX Aura and the Women Strong Trade Fair at SM Megamall drew crowds eager to support Filipino craftsmanship and locally produced goods.
Kicking Off 2026 With Strong MSME Partnerships
For January 2026, SM Supermalls is hosting new MSME-focused events, including:
DTI Region IV-A Coco Festival Food Fair
January 14–20, SM City San Pablo
Featuring coconut-based products from CALABARZON MSMEs.
Philstar Nakakalokal Bazaar
January 16–18, SM Seaside City Cebu
Showcasing homegrown food, fashion, crafts, and lifestyle brands from the Visayas and Cordillera regions.
The Silk Events Bazaar (Upcoming)
January 28–February 10, SM La Union
A curated artisan and lifestyle market in a key tourism destination.
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