eBay to Contribute US$220,000 to Help SMEs

In order to offset economic hardships during COVID-19, eBay announced last week it will donate MX$5 million (over US$220,000) to SMEs through its “Mi Negocio 24/7” platform in Mexico. The company says the initiative is to provide entrepreneurs with a set of tools to help them establish and run an online business. The company said it would also provide business-oriented advice.

Those who receive funds will be able to showcase their products through the “Mi Negocio” platform and coordinate their logistics with eBay. The company will enable entrepreneurs to export products by providing them with a point of contact, as well a training. The company announced that sellers will have the opportunity to publish their ads for free until July. 

"We launched this campaign considering all the small and medium-sized companies that need support. Today these companies are looking for alternatives to sell, because many of these businesses only had physical stores and we want to help them in their transition to a digital channel," said Xavier Aguirre, Senior Manager of Business Development and Exports fat eBay Latin America in an interview for Mibolsillo. Companies that participate will get a Premium or Super Store for three months at no cost. Buyers will be able to upload up to 10,000 ads, while they receive training on how to sell their products, plus three personalized counseling sessions.

Aguirre explained that the program will apply best practices used on the site so users get to know how to use the platform in the best way possible. “All these SMEs are trained so they can have a more sustainable business over time," he explained. The company will provide participants with 50,000 additional free ads to promote their business. The company reported the program plans to help approximately 100 businesses. As of today, eBay has received 25 registrations.

Businesses interested in participating must fill out an online form by July 31 and complete the registration process over the phone. Once the application is submitted, it will go through an assessment process that will select applicants that have the potential to take the most advantage of the program. This will depend on the type of business and experience with selling online. As a requirement, they must have an inventory of more than 100 items, explained Aguirre.