Sands China has introduced the second phase of its Community Revitalization Programme for Rua das Estalagens, with a focus on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and strengthening activity in one of Macao’s historic areas.
The programme includes two initiatives: an Entrepreneurship Recruitment Programme to attract new businesses to the street, and a Shop Rebranding Programme aimed at existing operators. Both are intended to improve business performance and contribute to the district’s ongoing development.
Rua das Estalagens forms part of Macao’s wider revitalisation plan launched in 2023. Sands China began its first recruitment programme in April 2024, selecting seven businesses from 128 applications across sectors including retail and food and beverage. The initiative has been in operation for two years.
The new recruitment phase invites local entrepreneurs to submit proposals aligned with the district’s development strategy. Applicants must commit a minimum initial investment of 300,000 patacas (US$37,500), with selected projects eligible for subsidies of up to one million patacas, based on assessment criteria including business concept and market potential.
The Shop Rebranding Programme targets businesses already operating on the street, with a minimum required investment of 50,000 patacas. Selected participants may receive support of up to 500,000 patacas. The programme covers areas such as brand image, product packaging and storefront improvements.
Sands China has also supported participating businesses through events and promotions, including food festivals and retail initiatives linked to larger events such as the Sands China Macao International 10K and the Sands Shopping Carnival.
Applications for the latest phase are open until June 30, with supporting activities including briefing sessions, training courses and site visits scheduled in May and June.
“Launched in 2024, the first edition of the Entrepreneurship Recruitment Programme 2.0 for Rua das Estalagens not only captured the attention of local young entrepreneurs, but also successfully helped put a series of creative business plans into action. This encouraging result has infused Rua das Estalagens with new commercial vision and vitality. These initiatives are highly aligned with the Macao SAR government’s vision of supporting the high-standard development of local SMEs and boosting community economic development,” said Yau Yun Wah, director of the Economic and Technological Development Bureau of the Macao SAR government.
Sands China executive vice chairman Wilfred Wong added: “This initiative seeks to recruit a new cohort of SMEs to start businesses on the historic street, providing a platform for Macao entrepreneurs to flourish while further re-energising the district’s cultural, tourism, and economic vitality. Additionally, through our inaugural Shop Rebranding Programme, we aim to help the street’s existing businesses optimise and upgrade their brands, ensuring the sustainable development of Macao’s revitalised districts.”
