As we all know, location is critical in terms of the success of a business. An area with a high foot traffic, such as SM Malls, can give a business the visibility and the customers that it needs. That’s no wonder why entrepreneurs choose to bring their startup in SM Malls. In turn, SM has organized its Start Up Market as its way of supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The SM Start Up Market is a hub for emerging small businesses. it is currently present in several regional and premier malls in key cities all over the country, namely SM North Edsa, SM Mall of Asia, SM Southmall, SM Pampanga, SM Clark, SM Grand Central, SM Sta. Rosa, SM City Cebu, SM Iloilo, SM Bacolod, SM CDO Downtown Premier, and SM Lanang Premier.

The SM Megamall commenced the opening of the Start Up Market last December 15 and featured a wide variety of products from different categories. These are innovative brands that sell comfort food, health and wellness, to tech, home essentials and many more.

Most of these SMEs have launched their businesses online, as such, the SM Start Up Market is a great opportunity for them to have a physical stall where they can have a face-to-face interaction with their clients.

The Start Up Market not only helps SMEs grow but it also gives shoppers a chance to discover new local products as well as an exciting venue to buy gifts especially for the fast approaching holidays.

Here are some of shops that buyers can check out at The Start Up Market:

• The Truffle Peddler (founder: Martin Lugtu III) - for Artisanal Chocolate Truffles and crafted sweets
• Ronin Asia (founder: Jonathan Dimayuga) – selling torched maki rolls
• Isaw To Go (founder: Rosella Unson) - ready-to-grill street food
• Alta Skin Care System (founder: Donna Queen Ibeas) – for natural skin whitening products
• AC Yasan (founder: Antonio Moreno, Jr.) – for customized gold and stainless jewelry
• Kahel (founders: Arvin Maceda, Patricia Ginete) – selling bath and homecare essentials
• AC San (founder: Antonio Moreno) – selling old-plated and stainless steel jewelry
• Kurimu (founder: Brian Kong) – selling Japanese ice-cream

SMEs can apply for a Start Up Package to be part of the SM Start Up Market if they meet the following criteria:

• They have to be operating for three years and less and must have no physical store.
• It must be composed of one to nine employees with a maximum capital of P3 Million.
• Its kiosk concept must be that of an original or homegrown brand.
• Its business registration and tax documents must be complete.

Once the SMEs have met the application criteria, they can proceed with sending their application by submitting the following documents:

• Tenant application form
• Company profile
• Photos of products including prices
• The top 5 selling products of the company
• A link to the SMEs’ online store or e-commerce website
• Business registration documents and certifications

For anyone who’s starting out in business, connecting with the right people and applying the best marketing practices are important to gain success. It’s good to know that SMEs can find a good partner in SM Malls. Owing to its humble beginnings as a small shoe store owned by Henry Sy, it is in the DNA of SM to support business startups.

SM provides access to friendly rental rates and use of kiosks or carts free of charge, marketing assistance to give the brand free exposure in SM online channels, ad spaces inside the mall, financial assistance with BDO, and mentorship from SM experts on operations and marketing.

The Start Up Market is now open at the Upper Ground Level Entrance, Mega A in Megamall.

To know more about the Start Up Market, simply visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on all social media accounts.

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