SM champions emerging entrepreneurs

The SM group continues to support more than 100,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), including a growing number of young entrepreneurs from Generation Z and Millennials.

Nearly 70% of tenants in SM Supermalls are MSMEs, providing a platform for small businesses to grow. Joaquin L. San Agustin, executive vice president for marketing at SM Supermalls, said, “We’ve seen a growing presence of Gen Z and Millennial entrepreneurs across our MSME programs. These young, up-and-coming business owners have been actively joining our fairs and leasing spaces. Many are first-time entrepreneurs, creatives, or former online sellers who now see the value of connecting with customers face-to-face. SM is here to be the launchpad and marketplace of their dreams.”

Young entrepreneurs discover opportunities through SM’s MSME application portal and events such as the Viyline MSME Caravan, Artisan, Souk Fair, and Art Market.

Sheila Tan, senior assistant vice president for operations at Kultura, said, “We choose our suppliers based on their understanding of the market and if they can develop the products we need. We also assess their willingness to grow with Kultura and if their values align with ours.”

Hannah Garcia, founder of Pamanna Jewelry, said, “Entrepreneurship allowed me to celebrate Filipino craftsmanship in a way that feels both personal and impactful.” She added, “We both believe in quality, story-driven creations, and empowering local makers.”

According to Ms. Tan, “Gen Z and Millennial entrepreneurs offer creativity and fresh ideas. They are always updated with trends which makes product development easier.”

Stella Miranda, owner and founder of Lily Jewelry, said, “Looking back at my experience starting out eight years ago, I was pretty fearless and clear with the vision I had for Lily – to become an approachable and down-to-earth jewelry brand that produced one-of-a-kind designs. Young entrepreneurs have the capacity to be daring.”

When approached by Kultura last year to be part of their event, Filipino Design Studio, Mrs. Miranda said, “it was the perfect place to showcase our new designs. I’ve discovered, how through the years, Kultura has kept its core values of supporting local businesses, providing young and innovative entrepreneurs a spotlight, while offering exceptional customer service for both consumers and their partner brands.”

She also shared that Kultura has been helping their brand in reaching their “target market by providing us with sufficient space in their high-traffic stores and promoting us through their in-store events and social media platforms.”

In 2024, BDO, SM’s banking arm, reported increased loan applications from young entrepreneurs, with Millennials accounting for 49% of multipurpose loan clients and Gen Zs making up 1%.

Christian Guerrero, founder of construction company Ground-Up, said, “Our Ready Check facility has significantly improved our operational flexibility. It has already boosted our confidence in pursuing larger project leads.”

BDO said supporting MSMEs helps foster innovation and economic growth, ensuring a strong business landscape for the future.