In a dynamic move to boost innovation and support women-led businesses, SM Supermalls recently made waves by sponsoring the Philippine leg of She Loves Tech 2024. This high-profile event highlighted the remarkable achievements of ten Filipina-led tech startups, showcasing SM’s dedication to empowering women entrepreneurs and fostering technological advancements.
She Loves Tech 2024: A Platform for Innovation
She Loves Tech is a globally recognised platform that celebrates and supports women in technology. This year’s event in the Philippines was no exception, spotlighting ten innovative startups that are pushing boundaries and addressing pressing societal challenges.
Standout Innovations:
- Farmtri: Utilising Artificial Intelligence (AI), Farmtri assists farmers in optimising their agricultural practices, thereby enhancing productivity and sustainability.
- Unprude: An online platform that focuses on sexual health education, Unprude tailors its content to various cultural contexts, aiming to make sexual health resources more accessible and relevant.
SM Supermalls’ Commitment to Women Entrepreneurs
SM Supermalls’ involvement in She Loves Tech underscores its commitment to supporting women-led tech ventures. By partnering with this prestigious event, SM demonstrates its role in integrating technology, sustainability, and community development into its core initiatives.
Leanne Robers, co-founder of She Loves Tech, praised the partnership:
“Partnering with SM for She Loves Tech is incredibly impactful. Their support helps amplify our mission to showcase and elevate women-led tech startups.”
This collaboration not only highlights SM’s commitment to technological innovation but also reinforces its dedication to creating opportunities for women in the tech industry.
Ongoing Support for MSMEs
SM Supermalls isn’t stopping with She Loves Tech. The company has a longstanding commitment to supporting Micro-, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through various initiatives:
- Affordable Retail Spaces: With 67% of its tenants being MSMEs, SM provides scalable packages and affordable retail spaces to help these businesses grow.
- SM for MSMEs: This program addresses key challenges faced by small businesses, such as high operational costs and intense competition.
- StartUp Package: Offers start-up-friendly rental rates and marketing support, easing the financial burden for new businesses.
Creating Inclusive Marketplaces
SM Supermalls is dedicated to fostering inclusive marketplaces where local producers and MSMEs can thrive. This commitment is evident in several initiatives:
- SM Weekend Market: Provides local vendors with a platform to showcase and sell their products, creating a vibrant community market atmosphere.
- Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan Sustainable Livelihood Program: Offers essential skills and market opportunities for local farmers and food suppliers, supporting sustainable practices and local entrepreneurship.
The Impact of SM’s Initiatives
SM Supermalls’ efforts extend beyond individual events and programmes. By championing initiatives that support MSMEs and local producers, SM contributes to the broader goal of community development and economic growth.
Highlights of SM’s Impact:
- Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Through events like She Loves Tech and its ongoing support for MSMEs, SM is helping to elevate women in the tech industry and beyond.
- Supporting Local Communities: By providing market opportunities and training programmes, SM supports local farmers and small business owners, enhancing their economic prospects.
Conclusion
SM Supermalls is making a significant impact by championing women entrepreneurs and supporting local communities. Its involvement in She Loves Tech 2024 exemplifies its commitment to innovation, technology, and community development.
Key Takeaways:
- SM Supermalls is dedicated to supporting women-led tech startups and local businesses.
- She Loves Tech 2024 showcased groundbreaking innovations from Filipina-led startups.
- SM’s ongoing initiatives, such as SM for MSMEs and the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan Program, highlight its commitment to community and economic development.
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