Women have been urged to support young individuals looking to start their own businesses.
Losana Marama, a representative from West Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), spoke to attendees at a women’s conference held at Gurukul Primary School in Saweni, Lautoka, about the Young Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) program.
Ms. Marama explained that the purpose of the scheme is to offer financial assistance in the form of grants to young entrepreneurs with innovative and viable ideas. According to her, the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism, and Transport provides up to $30,000 in financial support to successful applicants aged between 18 and 40 years to help them develop or expand their creative business concepts.
“If your child has innovative and creative ideas, they can access this funding,” Ms. Marama stated. She mentioned that if young people observe business trends, such as popular ideas on TikTok that have not yet been implemented in Fiji, they can approach her organization for assistance in obtaining the funding.
“The maximum grant amount is $30,000, and it is not a loan; it is fully funded. If you see potential in your child, try to inspire and empower them,” she encouraged.
Ms. Marama emphasized the importance of young entrepreneurs in driving economic growth, urging parents and guardians to inspire their children to become job creators instead of job seekers.
The West Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises office is located at Rogorogoivuda House in Lautoka.