Business Assistance Fiji (BAF) has achieved a significant milestone by winning the prestigious International Council for Small Businesses (ICSB) LightHouse Award. This award represents a recognition of organizations dedicated to fostering the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) on a national level, emphasizing their vital role in economic resilience and innovation.

Since joining ICSB in 2022, BAF has focused on empowering grassroots micro-businesses and aligning its objectives with the global mission of promoting MSMEs. The ICSB LightHouse Award symbolizes a guiding light for small businesses, illustrating the critical support they need to navigate various challenges and prosper.

Dr. Ayman El Tarabishy, president and CEO of ICSB, expressed his excitement in announcing this recognition. He highlighted BAF’s unique dedication to micro-businesses, noting that these enterprises form the backbone of local economies. The organization’s global perspective and commitment to adapting international best practices enhance the opportunities available to Fijian entrepreneurs, fostering greater economic development.

Ramesh Chand, general manager of BAF, remarked on the honor of receiving the award, stating it reflects the team’s hard work and the transformative impact of MSMEs on local communities. He reiterated BAF’s focus on tailored programs designed to tackle specific challenges faced by micro-businesses, thereby fostering innovation and resilience in the sector.

In a continuation of its support for small businesses, BAF has also recently introduced a new grant initiative aimed at empowering underrepresented groups, including women and youth-led enterprises. This program aligns with BAF’s commitment to creating an inclusive business environment in Fiji and demonstrates their ongoing dedication to economic empowerment.

As a beacon of hope and stability in the business community, BAF’s recognition emphasizes the importance of sustaining and nurturing small businesses in an increasingly globalized world. This achievement not only marks a proud moment for BAF but also inspires hope for continued progress and collaboration in the MSME sector, paving the way for sustainable economic growth in Fiji.