Hosted by the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, in collaboration with Canada-ASEAN Business Council
Date: November 14-15, 2026
Location: November 14: Solaire Resort Entertainment City, Metro Manila, Philippines (TBC) | November 15: Hyatt Regency Manila, City of Dreams, Metro Manila, Philippines
The ASEAN-APEC Forum on Advancing MSME Development through Policy Dialogue and Knowledge Exchange marks the culmination of the APEC-Canada Growing Business Partnership (ACGBP).
Through policy leadership, research, mentorship, training, and regional knowledge exchange, ACGBP has worked to support more inclusive and sustainable growth for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Viet Nam, with particular attention to women entrepreneurs and marginalized groups.
Building on the experiences and lessons generated across the five project economies, the Forum broadens this engagement to the wider ASEAN region, bringing together policymakers, MSME entrepreneurs, support organizations, and regional partners to connect policy, practice, and identify shared priorities for MSME development.
View the Agenda (subject to change)
Last updated: October 27
FAQ
1. Where is the Forum being held?
The Forum will be held in Metro Manila, Philippines, in two separate locations:
- November 14: Solaire Resort Entertainment City (TBC)
- November 15: Hyatt Regency Manila, City of Dreams
2. When is the Forum taking place?
The Forum will take place on November 14 and 15, 2026. Please view the agenda above for the detailed schedule.
3. What is the dress code of the event?
National attire or business casual.
4. Will my travel expenses be reimbursed?
APF Canada will reimburse travel expenses for eligible participants. If you participated in the ASEAN-APEC Forum webinars and have been receiving emails about the Forum from APF Canada, that means you are an eligible participant.
5. Which expenses will be reimbursed?
All eligible expenses are listed in the Guide for Expense Reimbursement. The following expenses will be reimbursed:
- Economy class flights from your home economy to Manila, up to the amounts indicated in the Guide for Expense Reimbursement.
- Accommodation for up to two nights, up to the amount indicated in the Guide for Expense Reimbursement.
- Meals and incidentals will be reimbursed at a fixed rate, indicated in the Guide for Expense Reimbursement.
6. Which documents do I need to submit in order to receive reimbursement?
You must submit a copy of all of the following:
- Completed travel expense claim
- Completed international wire transfer form (so that we can process your payment)
- Flight receipt, itinerary, and boarding passes
- Accommodation receipt
7. Where can I find the Travel Expense Claim form and International Wire Transfer form?
These forms will be shared by APF Canada closer to the event date, along with instructions on how and when to submit your request for reimbursement.
8. Are there any other requirements I must fulfill to be reimbursed?
Yes. You must attend the in-person event on November 14 and 15. Your attendance will be verified on both days.
9. Are there any recommended hotels in the area?
There are several hotels around the Forum's location. We are consulting a few options to recommend locally, but we also encourage you to do your own search and make a reservation, as availability may become limited as we approach the event date. Please note that reimbursement of accommodation expenses is limited to 2 nights, at CA$206 per night.
10. Who should I contact if I have any questions?
You may contact the APF Canada team at apfcanada-msme@asiapacific.ca