Women have been urged to support young individuals looking to launch their businesses.
Losana Marama, a representative from West Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, spoke to participants at a women’s conference held at Gurukul Primary School in Saweni, Lautoka, emphasizing the importance of the Young Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) program.
Ms. Marama explained that the purpose of the scheme is to provide grants to aspiring entrepreneurs with innovative and viable ideas. The Government’s Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport offers financial assistance of up to $30,000 to young entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 40, allowing them to develop or expand their creative business concepts.
“If your child has innovative and creative ideas, they can access this funding,” noted Ms. Marama. She pointed out that young entrepreneurs might come across trending business ideas on platforms like TikTok that are not yet prevalent in Fiji, and she encouraged them to seek help to access these funds.
The grant, which can go up to $30,000, is not a loan but a fully funded initiative. “If you recognize a skill in your child, work to motivate and empower them,” she advised.
Ms. Marama highlighted the significant role young entrepreneurs play in boosting the economy and called on parents and guardians to inspire their children to become “job creators” rather than merely “job seekers.”
The West Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) office is situated at Rogorogoivuda House in Lautoka.