More than 700 people have submitted applications to participate in the National Innovation and Enterprise Expo, with the application period closed on 31 August.
In a post shared on social media, Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed said more than 700 applications had been submitted to participate in this year’s expo. He said this was double the number of applications received for last year’s expo.
The minister said the National Innovation and Enterprise Expo provides a valuable opportunity for growing businesses and those entering the business sector to showcase their skills and products.
A total of 270 people applied to participate in last year’s expo. The expo is the largest exhibition organised to bring together Maldivian producers and skilled individuals under one roof, while providing opportunities to market their skills and products.
This year’s expo is scheduled to take place during the final week of October, with preparations and other important stages related to the event currently under way. One of the major changes introduced this year is the adjustment to the eligible age range. This year, anyone aged 13 and above will be able to participate in the expo.
In addition to showcasing products, the expo will feature various districts where businesses can market and sell their products. Participants will have the opportunity to showcase products and services across 73 categories in 16 sectors at the National Innovation and Enterprise Expo. This year’s expo is scheduled to run from 23 to 31 October.
Creating opportunities to market and grow businesses operated by Maldivian producers and increase their income is one of the government’s key objectives in the business sector.