Expo season is once again in full swing. The heat may be relentless this summer but it did not stop people from making their way to the 14th PhilSME held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay. It was a jam packed event held over the course of two days. There were all kinds of business, big and small, all from different industries and fields. Here’s the scoop on what went down last May 10-11.
The two day event started at 10AM and closed at 6PM on both days which was more than enough time for people to roam around and look at all the different booths and to listen to some talks. On stage towards the back of the venue there were many interesting speakers and topics from the different companies present in the convention. Some of the companies and topics that were discussed during the two days were Odoo: How to Streamline and Automate Business Operations by Using One System, Revolutionize Your Business with AutoCount, Beyond Banking Solutions with Security Bank, Understanding the Role of Insurance in SME’s, Supercharge Your Business With AI, What’s Next for Events in 2024, Protecting Your Greatest Asset, Your Employees, Impact of Digitalization in Empowering SME’s Towards Success, Gcash Digital Solutions for SME’s, and many more! The talks were back to back from morning to late afternoon. There was much to learn whether you are already working for a company or running your own business.
The whole event was hustling and bustling with people. It was nice to see many people coming out to support local businesses and supporting local entrepreneurs. There were many different types of companies all over the room. From insurance, to media, web development, graphic design, hospitality, food, franchising, beauty, packaging, suppliers of all kinds of stuff, and even cars and vehicles, there was a little bit of everything. Whatever it is you need to grow your business or even just to start it from the ground up, this expo is really the one to find contacts and make connections.
Some of the businesses that were in attendance were: Gcash, MaxiLife, Esquire, Security Bank, Toyota, International Workplace Group, Canva, The Farm At San Benito, Sprout Solutions, Finest Media PH, Maybank, PLDT Enterprise, Acer and many more.
If you needed a quick break from walking around and taking it all in, towards the back of the area near the stage there were some food stalls as well as some tables and chairs. If you happen to get there and it’s not packed with people then take the opportunity to get a snack to refuel and rest your feet. That is probably one of the only concerns at the event is that there are not enough tables and chairs for people to sit at while eating or maybe just to talk and network. Unlike other expos I’ve been to, there’s usually a seating area where anyone can sit and rest or have a conversation. I think this is vital for people to make connections and to stay at the event a little longer than intended.
Aside from that everything was well done. The setup and spacing was decent although we can’t help crowds flocking to specific areas sometimes. For the most part it was easy enough to navigate.
It was also nice to see the different establishments bring their A-game. Some booths really went all out with their designs and setups which really helps capture the attention of potential customers walking by. Some had interesting games and freebies which of course adults and even students alike were excited to play. The prizes were really varied too. Some gave out stickers and other stationery items, while others gave away mugs, tote bags, pouches, and even food.
I noticed that compared to last year there seemed to be a lot more students roaming around the event which is great to see. The youth will eventually become part of the workforce one day so it was nice to see them taking interest in the talks and the companies that were around. They mostly moved in groups by school and were learning together and asking questions together. We were all young once and remember that intimidating feeling of being on the journey of becoming an adult. I think the PhilSME is a wonderful environment for students to explore safely the options and industries that they may want to join in the future. After all, the event is open to all and everyone is here to learn and share information.
If you’d like to know more about the PhilSME you can always check their Facebook page and see when the next event is. This time around they boast of 9,500+ attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors. Something tells me that the next event will be even bigger and better!
