Sixteen aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners have successfully completed a three-day “Start Improve Your Own Business” (SIYB) training program, receiving their certifications during a ceremony at the Civic Towers in Suva. The program is facilitated by the Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, Micro Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications (MTCMSMEC) through its MSME Fiji Unit.
Addressing the graduates, Ateca Rounds, director of economics at MTCMSMEC, highlighted the significance of the training in supporting their entrepreneurial journeys. She encouraged participants to implement the concepts they learned into their businesses and assured them that the ministry is dedicated to assisting their efforts by facilitating access to grants for viable business proposals.
Rounds emphasized that to qualify for these grants, businesses must have a clear vision and demonstrate progress in meeting their goals. She acknowledged common challenges faced by entrepreneurs, such as obtaining information and financial resources, and reassured the graduates that the ministry strives to help them navigate these hurdles.
In a show of appreciation, participant Edward Snow expressed that the workshop has not only motivated him but has also inspired him to share his newfound knowledge with his peers, enhancing their collective business acumen.
This program aligns with the ministry’s ongoing commitment to empower MSMEs, which are vital to Fiji’s economy. In addition to this recent group, MTCMSMEC reported that a total of 74 potential businesses have graduated from SIYB training in March alone. As the ministry continues to work with various investors to identify new markets and industries, it offers hope for these entrepreneurs to thrive and expand their businesses in the future.
The future appears bright for these emerging business leaders, as they are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and support necessary to succeed in Fiji’s competitive marketplace. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to nurturing local entrepreneurship and fostering economic growth within the community.
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