Business Assistance Fiji (BAF) has proudly earned the prestigious International Council for Small Businesses (ICSB) LightHouse Award, an accolade that recognizes organizations committed to supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Fiji. This honor is particularly significant, as BAF became a member of the ICSB in 2022 and has since focused on empowering grassroots micro-businesses vital to local economic stability and growth.

The ICSB LightHouse Award symbolizes essential guidance and support for MSMEs, akin to a lighthouse that assists ships during storms. In receiving this acknowledgment, BAF is celebrated for its unwavering efforts to foster economic resilience and innovation within local communities.

Dr. Ayman El Tarabishy, president and CEO of ICSB, expressed his enthusiasm for BAF’s recognition, highlighting its dedication to grassroots initiatives and the emphasis on micro-businesses. He noted that BAF’s strategies align with international best practices, enhancing the potential for Fijian businesses to thrive globally.

BAF’s General Manager, Ramesh Chand, expressed pride in the recognition, attributing it to the hard work of the BAF team and the transformative role MSMEs play in communities. He reaffirmed BAF’s commitment to creating tailored programs to address unique challenges faced by micro-businesses, promoting innovation and resilience.

In line with its mission to foster inclusivity, BAF has also launched initiatives to support marginalized groups, including women and youth-led enterprises. These efforts not only reflect a commitment to sustainable economic growth but also signify BAF’s role in creating a more inclusive business environment in Fiji.

The acknowledgment from ICSB represents a hopeful outlook for the future of MSMEs in Fiji. It underscores the importance of ongoing support for small businesses, which are essential for sustained economic resilience and growth. As BAF continues its efforts to nurture local entrepreneurs and foster conditions for their success, it helps pave the way for a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem that can withstand challenges and emerge stronger.

In summary, the receipt of the ICSB LightHouse Award is not just a proud achievement for BAF; it symbolizes the vital role organizations like it play in nurturing small businesses, promoting innovation, and fostering an inclusive business environment. This initiative showcases a positive trajectory for entrepreneurship and economic growth in Fiji, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in enhancing the local entrepreneurial landscape.