SME Digital Launches 'SME 360' Campaign to Boost Maldivian Small Businesses

SME Digital has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign titled "SME 360," designed to expand financial support and guidance for entrepreneurs across the Maldives. The initiative was officially unveiled during the Addu Business Dialogue in Hithadhoo, Addu City, marking a strategic shift in how the institution engages with the nation's small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed inaugurated the campaign, joined by SME Digital Managing Director Badruddeen Hassan and Chairman Mohamed Shareef. The launch underscores the institution's goal to transition from a traditional lender to a dedicated financing partner for businesses at every stage of their growth. Speaking to PSM News, Managing Director Badruddeen Hassan explained that SME 360 employs a multi-faceted approach to public engagement. The campaign aims to demystify the various financial solutions and support mechanisms offered by SME Digital, ensuring that business owners can identify the specific schemes that align with their growth trajectories. As part of this effort, SME Digital will hold dedicated awareness sessions in Addu City to provide direct, face-to-face engagement with local business owners and the public. To ensure nationwide reach, the campaign will integrate a strong digital strategy. A centerpiece of this outreach will be a new podcast series highlighting the real-world experiences, challenges, and successes of Maldivian entrepreneurs. This will be complemented by targeted social media programs intended to foster a collaborative network among SME stakeholders. "We want to be a financing partner for small and medium enterprises in addition to what we can do next," Hassan stated, emphasizing that the institution intends to support businesses through every phase of their operational lifecycle. The introduction of SME 360 builds upon an established foundation; SME Digital has already served more than 4,000 customers across the archipelago, positioning the company as a key player in the Maldives' economic diversification efforts.