BSP Financial Group (Fiji) Pte Ltd (BSP) in collaboration with Australian Business Volunteers (ABV) has launched the third year of the Fiji THRIVE Program, which aims to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Fiji. This initiative began this week in the Central Division, welcoming 25 new MSME participants who will engage in tailored workshops, expert coaching, and holistic mentoring support intended to foster sustainable business growth.
BSP’s country head, Haroon Ali, expressed enthusiasm for continuing the partnership with ABV, noting the importance of high-quality expertise offered through the program. ABV’s skilled business professionals provide hands-on coaching and mentoring, essential for helping local businesses thrive. Notable experts included in this year’s cohort are Lachlan Duncan, who specializes in strategy and leadership, and Catherine Corderoy, who offers insights into accounting and business management.
ABV’s CEO, Liz Mackinlay, highlighted the program’s broader impact, emphasizing the resilience-building aspect of the training offered. She noted a growing participation from women-led businesses, which is crucial for laying a solid foundation for Fiji’s economic future. This aligns with previous reports that highlighted a significant percentage—66%—of participating businesses in prior cohorts being women-led, showcasing the empowering role of such initiatives in enhancing gender equality in entrepreneurship.
The Fiji THRIVE program, which stands for “Together, Helping to build a Resilient, Inclusive, and Vibrant Economy,” has been fundamental in promoting local business development and financial inclusion since its inception in March 2023. This year’s program includes:
– Three-day workshops designed to meet participants’ specific needs.
– One-on-one coaching sessions allowing MSMEs to develop actionable 60-day business plans.
– Networking opportunities connecting MSMEs with industry experts, peers, and potential partners.
In total, since the program’s launch, 92 local businesses from different divisions across Fiji have benefited, emphasizing BSP’s commitment to supporting the local business ecosystem.
The continued efforts to strengthen Fiji’s MSMEs through specialized training and mentorship provide hope for a thriving entrepreneurial landscape, contributing to lasting economic development and resilience in the region.
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