CCCI unlocks solutions, empowers MSMEs at Expo 2024

CEBU CITY-- The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) mounted the “Empowering Cebu MSMEs Solutions Expo 2024 on August 16-17 at the Atrium, SM Seaside Cebu with some 40 exhibitors which focus on the essential resources and solutions to propel the MSMEs businesses forward.

“This gathering is a cornerstone of our collective journey towards a more inclusive and prosperous Cebu.  MSMEs play a pivotal role in fostering sustainable development, worldwide, it’s over 90percent that fall under the category of MSMEs. But in the Philippine context, it is 99.4 percent are MSMEs and they are instrumental in creating employment, 65 percent more or less on the average are employed by MSMEs, fostering innovation and contributing to GDP growth,” CCCI president, Jay Yuvallos said in his opening message at the event.

Yuvallos added that as part of the Cebu Business Month (CBM) activities, the expo featured a diverse range of service providers, B2B solutions, and support organizations dedicated to fostering the growth and success of Cebu's MSMEs under the theme, "Empowering Cebu’s MSMEs," to serve as a vital platform for networking, learning and business development.

The expo offered exhibitors a unique opportunity to engage directly with a pool of MSMEs actively seeking innovative solutions and support and had the chance to present their products and services to a targeted audience, establishing their brand as a leader in MSME support.

Expected to happen at the Expo 2024

Meanwhile, participants networked with key decision-makers to generate qualified leads ready to invest in their solutions to further contribute to Cebu’s MSME success. A panel discussion on August 16 with stakeholders from logistics, IT and Tech Solutions sectors allowed MSMEs to engage with industry experts, identify key challenges and opportunities, and foster networking and collaboration among attendees.

The Meet & Match on August 17 was a business matching activity to build and create business connections with companies and individuals of common business interests. Its goal is to forge partnerships and business opportunities, support the value and supply chain, foster collaboration, and build meaningful relationships to create an enabling ecosystem that strengthens and revitalizes Cebu's business community.

According to Briggite Garcia-Alegado, Chair CBM 2024 Entrepreneurship, the Chamber recognized the important role of MSMEs in driving Cebu’s economic growth. They’re essential for both creating local jobs and serving as catalysts for community development.  When MSMEs offer numerous advantages, they also deal with considerable challenges in sustaining their operations. 

Alegado added that these challenges include, limited access to funding, scarce resources, and regulations that affect them.  In collaboration with our government partners, CCCI continues to help in developing a supportive environment that promotes their growths and success.

“Through this Expo, we intend to provide a solid foundation and access to programs including but not limited to mentoring, networking and funding opportunities that strengthen the capabilities of our MSMEs,” Alegado said. (Photos: MBCNewman)