SME Bank Malaysia Bhd has successfully launched its inaugural SME Bank FundFest 2024, a community-driven initiative designed to provide a platform for budding entrepreneurs, innovative startups, and growing businesses to access funding opportunities and participate in knowledge exchange sessions.
The launch ceremony was officiated by Dato’ Sri Khairul Dzaimee bin Daud, Secretary General of the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (MECD), who reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening the SME ecosystem.
Khairul Dzaimee said, “Micro-enterprises account for 69.7% of all SMEs in Malaysia, while small and medium enterprises represent 28.5% and 1.8% respectively. With SMEs forming the backbone of our economy, initiatives like SME Bank FundFest 2024 are essential in driving value creation for this vital sector.”
Datuk Dr. Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim, Acting Group President and CEO of SME Bank, emphasized the event’s importance in addressing the financing challenges faced by businesses, particularly startups.
“SME Bank FundFest 2024 is a crucial step in creating a space where entrepreneurs can connect with potential funders, gain expert insights, and explore new opportunities for growth,” he said.
Building on this commitment, SME Bank FundFest 2024 was organized in collaboration with the bank’s subsidiary CEDAR and various agencies under MECD, including Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia, Tekun Nasional, Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional, and Bank Rakyat.
Other participating financiers include Bank Simpanan Nasional, Funding Societies, microLEAP, MoneyMatch, pitchIN, and Rural Capital Berhad. The event features funding consultation booths offering personalized financial advice tailored to the needs of businesses.
With over 20 strategic partners, the two-day event will also include masterclasses led by industry experts, venture capitalists, peer-to-peer (P2P) financiers, and renowned local entrepreneurs.
These sessions will provide insights on securing funding, scaling businesses, and leveraging innovative technologies. Entrepreneurs at various stages of their journey will showcase their products and services, highlighting their entrepreneurial milestones.
SME Bank FundFest 2024 is expected to attract a diverse audience, including aspiring business owners, MSMEs, venture capitalists, and government agencies. The event underscores SME Bank’s role as a key driver in fostering innovation and economic growth in Malaysia’s SME sector.
The SME Bank FundFest 2024 take place from 17-18 October 2024 at Avenue K, Kuala Lumpur, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. For more information, visit www.smebank.com.my or contact SME Bank’s Contact Centre at 603-2603 7700.
