Leading digital bank and fintech ecosystem Maya has partnered with retail chain Ultra Mega and connectivity provider GoodApps in a tripartite collaboration aimed at advancing digital financial inclusion for over 100,000 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)—with a focus on sari-sari stores across the Philippines.
The initiative combines Maya’s AI-powered lending and digital payment tools, Ultra Mega’s extensive distribution network, and GoodApps’ LokalWifi community connectivity platform to deliver an integrated solution that empowers small retailers with credit, technology, and internet access.
“Sari-sari stores are vital to our economy and daily life. By combining financial services, digital tools, and on-the-ground support, we’re helping micro-entrepreneurs become more resilient and future-ready,” said Khurram Malik, group chief commercial officer at Maya.
With Maya Advance, MSMEs can access working capital without collateral, based on real-time business activity. Angelo Madrid, president of Maya Bank, emphasized the role of AI in reshaping credit accessibility:
“We’re using technology and real business data—not just paperwork—to unlock responsible financing for the country’s smallest but most essential businesses.”
Ultra Mega sees the partnership as a way to create real commercial value for partner stores.
“We’re delivering more than just products—we’re opening doors to financing, digital adoption, and new revenue streams,” said Julie Lim, VP for operations.
GoodApps, through LokalWifi, will offer affordable community Wi-Fi packages, enabling sari-sari stores to become local connectivity hubs—while also providing a practical use case for Maya-financed loans.
“Connectivity is no longer a luxury—it’s a lifeline,” said Brezhnev Tero, COO of GoodApps. “We’re helping store owners transform into community centers while generating sustainable income.”
This collaboration reflects a growing trend in the Philippines toward ecosystem-driven models that integrate finance, commerce, and digital infrastructure to uplift underserved sectors.
