GEORGE TOWN – In an effort to encourage Penang SMEs to embrace the digital age, the Small and Medium Enterprises Association (Samenta) is channelling a one-off grant of RM1,000, provided by the state government, to up to 1,000 companies.
All applications will be vetted by state agency Digital Penang.
Samenta national secretary Yeoh Seng Hooi told The Vibes that the group wants more SMEs to trade with one another digitally.
It also seeks to facilitate these businesses’ promotion of goods and services to both local and international buyers, he said.
“Part of the RM1,000 will be used to facilitate their participation in business-to-business (B2B) dealings on the digital platform.
“Many are selling via digital malls already. However, this initiative will encourage SMEs to start selling and promoting their products and services on B2B platforms.”
Samenta has requested that the state aids SMEs in boosting their digital participation during the Covid-19 pandemic, he said.
The allocation was approved by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow in February, and the roll-out begins today, after the eligibility criteria were finalised.
“Samenta will be the entity that vets the grant application process, as we are the organisation that mooted this proposal to the state government,” said Yeoh.
“The RM1,000 will be disbursed by the state government directly to the SME once the application has been approved by Samenta and vetted by Digital Penang.”
To be eligible for the grant, an SME must be based in the state and registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia.
It must also be a member of Samenta and registered with a local B2B platform with a track record of at least a year.
Samenta has been representing SMEs for 35 years, and was the first SME trade association to be incorporated in 1986. It hopes to provide an integrated and unique platform for business and entrepreneurial development, bringing in business through digital transformation.
SMEs keen to apply for the grant can sign up as a member of the association on its website. Grants will be given on a first come, first served basis. – The Vibes, April 3, 2021
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