Bangkok--10 Jul--Bangkok Bank Bangkok Bank is committed to providing a learning partnership to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Ten years ago Bangkok Bank initiated a program of activities to support SMEs which included workshops, networking and seminars. Now the bank is focusing on helping SMEs to enhance productivity, be innovative, form productive alliances and manage risks. To mark the second decade of its SME partnership the bank is introducing SME awards and the Bualuang Green loan. Bangkok Bank Executive Chairman Kosit Panpiemras said on the occasion of the bank’s 10th Anniversary of Bualuang SMEs: Partnership of Innovation and Knowledge that Bangkok Bank, as the pioneer in providing support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), would continue to support SMEs to grow and prosper with both finance and activities to help them. “Since SMEs are fundamental to the economic health of the country, they need to build supply chains, enhance competitiveness and develop strategic partnerships to minimize business risks.” He said learning is an ongoing process for SMEs which needs the support of three parties — the government, the private and the knowledge sectors. Mr. Kosit said the 10th Anniversary of Bualuang SME not only emphasize the fact that Bangkok Bank was the pioneer in providing various kinds of support to SMEs, but it also provides an opportunity to present the bank’s commitment to a Partnership of Innovation and Knowledge for SMEs, which is the theme of the event. The theme will be reflected in exhibition zones such as the Bualuang Green Zone, Modern Agriculture Zone and Bualuang Club Zone where there will be exhibitions by Thai SMEs that have succeeded in innovation and development. The event also provides an opportunity for entrepreneurs to establish business networks and learn about fresh ideas and tips that can help SMEs to succeed. The bank will also introduce a new loan for SMEs, the Bualuang Green Loan to support entrepreneurs to save energy, use alternative energy sources or introduce waste management projects. Customers can take out a loan for Baht 1 million or more. The interest rate per annum is MLR (7.25% as of July 7, 2008) or less and the bank will waive the loan administration fee. Another highlight of the event will be the presentation of the first Bualuang SME Awards. The awards are granted to SME customers who have achieved outstanding success and sustainable growth. These awardees can inspire other entrepreneurs to learn from their management techniques and business strategies. The SMEs that received the first Bualuang SME Awards include fresh fruit exporter Kamphaeng-saen Commercial, acrylic plastic sheet manufacturer Pan Asia Industrial, processed food seasoning ingredient manufacturer Mighty International, silk developer Chul Thai Silk, brake pad manufacturer Compact International (1994), artificial wasabi manufacturer Lanna Products, outdoor activity vehicle modifier Act One, supplementary food manufacturer Bee Products Industry, industrial tool maker Sumipol, and plastic film and bag manufacturer Advance Packaging.