CIMB ESG-SME Pitch Challenge

The push for sustainability involves efforts from all stakeholders.  From governments to the everyday citizen, we all play a part in shaping a sustainable tomorrow. This year, in conjunction with The Cooler Earth 2022, we have shifted our focus to the backbone of the economy: the Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SME). Specifically, we aim to bridge the gap for SMEs that have sustainability-focused business models or operations by connecting them with business partners. It is time to lay a stronger foundation today to build a better, more sustainable tomorrow.

The Event

A fully virtual pitch challenge aimed at catalysing the growth of sustainability-focused SMEs in ASEAN by connecting them with the relevant business partners. Shortlisted SMEs will have a chance to attend workshops hosted by industry experts to prepare them for the pitch day on 22^nd September 2022. On the day, SMEs will showcase their business to a panel of experts and prospective business partners.

To apply, kindly fill out the application form below, including information such as your company’s pitch deck*, and a 1-minute elevator pitch* summarizing the background of your founder/CEO.

*Refer to the registration form for details

Please access the registration form using Chrome, Firefox or Safari

Key Dates

We advise all applicants to keep these dates clear so you don't miss out on key events.

Note: Due to multiple requests, the application deadline has now been extended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where and when will the event take place?

This event will be fully virtual and will take place on 22^nd September 2022. All shortlisted SMEs will be sent an electronic invite prior to the event.

I am not based in Malaysia. Can I still participate?

Yes, as the event will be fully virtual and it is open to all ASEAN SMEs that meet the criteria.

What commitment do we require?

We do not require any financial commitment from participating SMEs. However, attendance by shortlisted SMEs at the pre-event workshops and pitch day, all of which will be conducted virtually, is compulsory.

When and how can I register?

Kindly fill out the registration form to express your interest. Registrations close on 9^th September 2022 at 11:59 p.m. MYT (GMT+8). Please see the terms and conditions here.

When will the shortlisted companies be contacted?

We will contact all shortlisted SMEs with the relevant next steps from 5^th September onwards.

When will the pre-event workshops be hosted and what will they involve?

The virtual workshops are scheduled to take place with our partners on 14^th (pitchIN), 15^th (PFAN), and 19^th (PwC Malaysia) September 2022. These workshops will provide practical knowledge, technical and financial capacity building, sustainability strategies, as well as insights into pitching techniques.

I have never pitched before. Will any guidance be provided?

All SMEs, regardless of prior funding, are welcome to apply! Support will be provided to all shortlisted SMEs prior to pitch day in the form of the pre-event workshops.

What constitutes a sustainability-focused SME?

Please refer to the framework below detailing eligible sectors. Nevertheless, this is for reference purposes only. All SMEs that consider themselves as sustainability-focused are encouraged to apply.