Women are being encouraged to support young individuals interested in launching their own businesses.
Losana Marama, a representative from West Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, addressed attendees at a women’s conference held at Gurukul Primary School in Saweni, Lautoka, highlighting the advantages of the Young Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) program.
Ms. Marama explained that the program aims to assist emerging entrepreneurs with grants to help them develop their innovative and viable ideas and projects. The Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport offers financial support of up to $30,000 to successful applicants aged between 18 and 40 to nurture or expand their business concepts, she stated.
“If your child has innovative and creative ideas, they can apply for this funding,” Ms. Marama remarked. She noted that ideas inspired by popular online trends, such as those seen on TikTok, could be explored even if they haven’t yet emerged in Fiji.
“The maximum grant available is $30,000, and it is a grant, not a loan. It is fully funded. If you recognize a skill in your child, encourage and empower them,” she advised.
Ms. Marama emphasized the importance of young entrepreneurs in driving economic growth. “As parents and guardians, we must inspire our children to become job creators rather than job seekers,” she added.
The West Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) office is situated at Rogorogoivuda House in Lautoka.