BSP Financial Group Limited, in collaboration with Australian Business Volunteers (ABV), has successfully completed the first phase of the Fiji Thrive Program, designed to support local entrepreneurs in their business journeys. Last Wednesday, the program graduated a new group of participants following a comprehensive six-month coaching and mentoring initiative, aiming to bolster the micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) sector in Fiji.
Rajeev Kumar, Senior Relationship Manager at BSP, remarked on the positive impact of the partnership with ABV, which is fostering greater banking accessibility for the MSME sector. Kumar emphasized that empowering local businesses directly contributes to the prosperity of families and communities, leading to overall national development.
ABV’s CEO, Liz Mackinlay, highlighted that the Fiji Thrive Program goes beyond mere training; it serves as a vital pathway for enhancing resilience, sustainability, and growth among Fijian entrepreneurs. She expressed delight in supporting the business owners as they strive to achieve their entrepreneurial goals.
Lisala Dyer, head of regional and trade development at Investment Fiji, encouraged program participants to adopt a global mindset, asserting that Investment Fiji is committed to fostering growth, building networks, and unlocking opportunities essential for the nation’s advancement. He pointed out that commodities such as coffee, cocoa, and noni can offer viable options for businesses to diversify their operations and enhance sustainability.
Nitika Singh, acting general manager of Business Assistance Fiji (BAF), underscored the need for tailored support for MSMEs, affirming that BAF is ready to offer advisory services, business grants, and capacity-building resources to help businesses flourish.
The Fiji Thrive Program, which has engaged nearly 100 MSMEs across Fiji with a significant focus on supporting women entrepreneurs (66 percent of participants), stands as a testament to the initiative’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and vibrant economic environment. Originally launched in Papua New Guinea, the program has been adapted to meet the unique requirements of Fijian MSMEs.
This uplifting initiative not only supports local entrepreneurs but also demonstrates a collective effort towards building a robust economic foundation in Fiji, promising a brighter future for the country’s aspiring business owners.
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