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Expansion of Sales Opportunities for SMBs, Purchases, Workshops, and Cultural Program - “SMB FEST” Begins 12.06.24

The “SMB FEST” trade fair is held throughout the country to support the sales of small and micro enterprises and expand sales channels. Firangiz Halilova from the Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion Agency (KOBİA) answered a few questions about “SMB FEST”.

What is “SMB FEST”?

The government provides comprehensive support to micro and small businesses. One aspect of this support is expanding sales opportunities and market access for SMBs. In this context, KOBİA also supports SMBs in various ways. One of them is the establishment of a mechanism to support SMBs to participate in trade fairs in order to increase sales opportunities and market access. Within this mechanism, KOBİA supports the participation of SMBs in various specialized trade fairs and exhibitions free of charge every year. One such event is the “SMB FEST” exhibition-sale. This fair has been held since 2022 and has received significant interest and approval from SMBs. It aims to support the development of micro and small businesses by presenting and selling a wide range of goods and services produced by SMBs and encouraging consumers to use these goods and services. The fair also aims to expand marketing opportunities for entrepreneurs and artisans in challenging situations, connect producers and consumers on a single platform, and create business connections between SMBs and suppliers. Participation in the exhibitions for micro and small businesses is free of charge; all expenses are covered by state support. In 2024, the “SMB FEST” exhibition-sales will also be organized in several regions of the country.

Which regions will host “SMB FEST” this year?

This year, “SMB FEST” will be held in Goygol, Sheki, Ganja, Nakhchivan, and other regions and cities. Announcement and acceptance of applications from entrepreneurs for participation in “SMB FEST,”which will take place from July 5 to 7 at the National Pasture Festival in Khadzhykent, has already begun. Priority at the fair will be given to participants from the host and neighboring regions. In this regard, employees of agencies working in more than 40 cities and regions of the country are actively cooperating with local entrepreneurs. Overall, in 2024, the scope of “SMB FEST” has been expanded across the country. Major events will be organized in regional areas due to the increased need for support in sales opportunities and market access for micro and small businesses in these regions. Unlike previous years, this year will provide opportunities for a larger number of SMBs to participate in “SMB FEST.”

What interest did “SMB FEST” generate in previous years?

Since 2022, KOBİA has organized the “SMB FEST” exhibition-sales. These fairs have been held in Baku, Sumgait, Ganja, Sheki, Lankaran, Shamkir, Guba, and other cities and regions. At these fairs, products and services from around 600 micro and small businesses were showcased and sold. Over 4,000 types of products and services from SMBs were exhibited, including food and non-food items, crafts, textiles, clothing, accessories, leather and wooden souvenirs, ceramics, paintings, books, and more. A large number of participants, a variety of goods, and high visitor interest indicate the popularity of “SMB FEST.” These events have also facilitated the creation of new partnerships and B2B meetings. “SMB FEST” has positively impacted the development of sales skills among micro and small businesses and broadened their experience in this area.

What are the conditions for participating in “SMB FEST”?

Micro and small businesses, artisans, and creative individuals can participate in the “SMB FEST” exhibitions-sales. To participate, micro and small businesses need to fill out an online application on the Agency’s website (https://smb.gov.az/az/contact-form/exhibition-form/1). All participation costs are covered by KOBİA. To inform SMBs and the public, announcements about the cities and regions where the fairs will be held will be posted in advance in the media, on the Agency's website, and on social media.

What can visitors expect at the “SMB FEST” exhibitions?

The main goal of “SMB FEST” is to support the sale of SMB products and services, but the fairs will also feature a cultural and entertainment program over the three days. Additionally, there will be workshops conducted by creative individuals and artisans. This way, locals, guests, and tourists will have the chance not only to shop but also to enjoy various activities. We believe that “SMB FEST” will be an interesting event for tourists visiting our country. We recommend that travel companies include “SMB FEST” in their programs. The fairs will offer tourists the opportunity to buy unique souvenirs, taste national dishes, and enjoy a day of entertainment.

https://az.trend.az/business/3911539.html