The next step for SMEs

Exploring your online business options may be the way forward

It’s no secret that e-commerce has become a viable alternative to brick-and-mortar retail, now even more so. A little less than 10 years ago, it was an often-overlooked alternative — websites were little more than repositories of information on a company and its business.

Today, the landscape is not so clear cut. While consumers still shop at physical stores, more are turning online, citing the convenience as well as the sheer variety of choices available, from anywhere in the world.

For SME retailers who still have not explored e-commerce, this may be the right time to take the plunge, given the current situation and its likely effects on business. Fortunately, for Singapore retailers eager to explore e-commerce, there is a programme in place that will help you get started.

What is it?

The E-Commerce Booster Package by Enterprise Singapore (ESG) has been enhanced to provide SMEs with financial support for digital marketing services and manpower.

What are the benefits?

SMEs can apply to get 90% subsidies for (a) digital-marketing advisory services for three months and (b) “additional support for manpower to build up and sustain for sustained digital-marketing efforts and capabilities.”

Services include analysis of the retailers’ existing digital business models and assets, development of digital-marketing plans and optimising marketing efforts on social media channels.

Who are eligible?

Retailers that have not previously applied for manpower support can sign up between now and 30 September 2020.

It is always good practice to adjust, prepare, and adapt to the times and having a strong e-commerce presence could truly prove to be a sustainable move for SMEs.

So, is your business eligible? Do the offered services meet your business’ goals? Ready to get down and digital? Visit this page to learn more: here.