Westpac Fiji has launched its inaugural Female Founders Program, becoming the first commercial bank in Fiji to provide dedicated financing products aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs. This initiative aligns with Westpac Fiji’s commitment to the Women Entrepreneurs Finance Code (We-Fi Code), which was signed in August 2023, alongside the Reserve Bank of Fiji, Fiji Development Bank, and other institutions.
The We-Fi Code is a global agreement among financial service providers, regulators, and development banks to enhance funding for female-led businesses. The goal is to stimulate growth and contribute positively to local communities. Through the Female Founders Program, Westpac Fiji plans to provide tailored financial support, educational resources, mentoring, and networking opportunities for women at different stages of their business journey.
CEO Shane Smith expressed pride in being a pioneer in the Pacific region, stating, “This program is not just about access to finance; it’s about creating pathways for women to lead, innovate, and grow their business with confidence.” Emma Low, Westpac Pacific Managing Director, highlighted the program as a transformative step towards empowering female entrepreneurs in Fiji.
Moreover, the initiative is expected to address significant barriers that women face in accessing finance and developing business skills, thus promoting gender equality and economic empowerment. Applications for the program will open next month, offering support based on various business lifecycle stages, from concept development to established operations.
This program represents a hopeful step toward enhancing the representation and success of female entrepreneurs in Fiji and showcases Westpac’s commitment to gender equality and community development. By investing in women-led businesses, the bank anticipates stimulating economic growth and enriching local communities.
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