SMECorp NextLevel CEO 2026

SME Corp. NextLevel CEO

Take Your Business Further with SME Corp.

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  • Define Business Direction
  • Strengthen Leadership
  • Accelerate Growth

NextLevel CEO is a flagship, first-of-its-kind, programme by SME Corp. Malaysia – crafted for MSME CEOs, directors and business owners who are preparing for their next phase of growth. Open to companies across all sectors, with emphasis on the HGHV ecosystem and strategic sectors aligned with NIMP 2030. 

The programme centers on the enhancement of strategic leadership capabilities and development of a holistic 5-year business plan while equipping organisation leaders with a deeper understanding of today’s business realities – covering Finance, Tech & Digital Transformation, ESG and Legal.

This is not merely a training programme. It is a development platform where organisations can assess their current position, identify growth opportunities and ultimately build a structured and sustainable growth plan.

 

Programme duration: July – December 2026

  • July – October 2026: Learning Sessions, Expert Coaching, 5-year Strategic Business Plan Development, Boardroom Simulations and Entrepreneurial Dialogues



Who Should Apply?

This programme is suitable for:

Focus Sectors

The programme is open to all sectors, with focus on the following:

Examples: Aircraft maintenance companies (MRO), aircraft component manufacturing, avionics, aerospace engineering and aviation industry supply chain providers.

Examples: Health, agriculture, or industrial-based biotechnology companies, bio-based product manufacturers, research laboratories and bio-innovation solution providers.

Examples: Electronic component manufacturers, semiconductors, PCB/EMS, automation systems, sensors, industrial electrical products and electronic equipment.

Examples: Medical device manufacturers, consumables, diagnostic products, hospital equipment components, contract manufacturers and health technology-related companies.

Examples: Engineering services, fabrication, technical maintenance, equipment suppliers, instrumentation and operational support companies within the Oil & Gas industry.

Examples:

Chemicals: Industrial chemical companies, specialty chemicals, processing materials, coatings, manufacturing support materials, and value-added chemical products.

High-Technology Industries: Automation, robotics, AI/IoT, advanced manufacturing, precision engineering, industrial digital systems, and high-impact innovative technologies.

Pharmaceuticals: Pharmaceutical product manufacturers, drug formulations, contract manufacturing, sterile products, life science-based healthcare solutions, and drug production-related companies.

Licence Compliance

Business is operating from a legitimate premise and holds a valid business licence issued by the relevant Local Authority (PBT) (if applicable).

Ownership

At least 60% Malaysian equity ownership.

SME Status

Business is classified as a Micro/Small/Medium enterprise based on SME Corp. Malaysia's categorisation guideline.

Financial Standing

Business demonstrates strong financial standing and positive cash flow.

Participation Eligibility

Companies wishing to apply must fulfil the following basic criteria:

Company Registration

Business must be registered under one of the following: Companies Act 1965 or 2016; or Registration of Businesses Act 1956; or Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012; or Business, Profession & Trade Licensing Ordinance (Sabah & Sarawak only); or any legally recognised professional body.

Participation Eligibility

Companies wishing to apply must fulfil the following basic criteria:

Company Registration

Business must be registered under one of the following: Companies Act 1965 or 2016; or Registration of Businesses Act 1956; or Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012; or Business, Profession & Trade Licensing Ordinance (Sabah & Sarawak only); or Any legally recognised professional body.

Licence Compliance

Business if operating from a legitimate premise and holds a valid business licence issued by the relevant Local Authority (PBT) (if applicable).

Ownership

At least 60% of the company’s equity must be held by Malaysians.

SME Status

Business is classified as Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Financial Standing

Business demonstrate strong financial standing and positive cash flow. Priority is given to companies with annual sales of RM5 million and above for any one (1) of the most recent three (3) financial years

Have Questions?

FAQ

Check Your Eligibility

Register Interest

Documents Required

Applicants must prepare the following documents during the application process

  • SSM company registration certificate (or equivalent)
  • Local authority licence (PBT, if applicable)
  • Company shareholding structure
  • For Sdn. Bhd. companies: Audited financial statements for the last 3 years
  • For non-Sdn. Bhd. companies: Certified management accounts for the last 3 years (Profit & Loss Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement)
  • SME Corp MSME Status Certificate (if available – kindly refer to the FAQ for more information)