Business Assistance Fiji (BAF) has achieved a remarkable milestone by receiving the prestigious International Council for Small Businesses (ICSB) LightHouse Award. This accolade recognizes organizations dedicated to supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), emphasizing their crucial role in fostering economic resilience and innovation.

The ICSB is a global organization committed to the growth of small businesses, and BAF has been a member since 2022. The LightHouse Award symbolizes the guidance and support needed by MSMEs as they navigate the often complex challenges of entrepreneurship, akin to the way a lighthouse aids mariners in treacherous waters.

In a statement about the award, Dr. Ayman El Tarabishy, president and CEO of ICSB, praised BAF’s focus on grassroots development, highlighting its impactful work with micro-businesses that serve as vital components of local economies. He noted that BAF’s strategic alignment with international best practices enhances the potential for Fijian businesses, bolstering their engagement within the global business environment.

Ramesh Chand, BAF’s general manager, expressed pride in the recognition, attributing it not only to the hard work of the BAF team but also to the transformative impact MSMEs have on their communities. He emphasized BAF’s commitment to fostering economic development through targeted initiatives designed to tackle the unique challenges faced by micro-businesses.

Recently, BAF has also unveiled new initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized groups, particularly women, youth, and indigenous enterprises. This aligns with their broader mission to create a more inclusive and supportive business ecosystem in Fiji.

The receipt of the ICSB LightHouse Award not only marks a significant achievement for BAF but also signals a hopeful trajectory for the MSME sector in Fiji. With this recognition, BAF is inspired to continue enhancing the community’s entrepreneurial landscape, fostering sustainable growth, and resilience in an increasingly globalized world.

In summary, BAF’s award highlights the critical need for support systems that nurture small businesses, showing promise for ongoing collaboration and innovation within the region and beyond.