Women are being urged to support young individuals looking to start their own businesses.
Losana Marama, a representative from West Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, emphasized the importance of the Young Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) during a recent women’s conference held at Gurukul Primary School in Saweni, Lautoka.
Ms. Marama explained that the objective of the scheme is to provide grants to young and aspiring entrepreneurs with innovative and viable business ideas. The Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport offers financial assistance of up to $30,000 for successful entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 40 to either develop or expand their innovative ideas.
“If your child has creative and innovative concepts, they can access this funding,” Ms. Marama stated. “Sometimes they may come across business ideas on TikTok that are popular overseas but haven’t been implemented in Fiji; they can approach us, and we will assist them in securing this funding.”
She clarified that the maximum grant available is $30,000, and it is a grant, not a loan, meaning it is fully funded. “If you identify a skill in your child, make an effort to motivate and empower them,” she advised.
Ms. Marama highlighted that the Government acknowledges the vital role that young entrepreneurs play in driving economic growth. “As parents and guardians, we need to inspire and encourage our children to become ‘job creators’ rather than ‘job seekers,’” she added.
The West Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) office is located at Rogorogoivuda House in Lautoka.