Women have been urged to support the entrepreneurial ambitions of young individuals.
Losana Marama, a representative from West Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, spoke at a women’s conference held at Gurukul Primary School in Saweni, Lautoka, highlighting the Young Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) program.
Marama explained that the purpose of this scheme is to offer financial assistance in the form of grants to ambitious young entrepreneurs with innovative and viable business ideas.
According to her, the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport provides financial support of up to $30,000 for successful entrepreneurs aged 18 to 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,” Marama stated. She noted that young people often discover business concepts through platforms like TikTok that are prevalent in other countries but have yet to be realized in Fiji. They are encouraged to seek assistance from the program to secure funding.
“The maximum grant amount is $30,000, and it’s important to emphasize that it’s a grant, not a loan, and fully funded. If you recognize a talent in your child, strive to inspire and empower them,” she said.
Marama also highlighted the government’s acknowledgment of the vital role young entrepreneurs play in fostering economic growth.
“As parents and guardians, we must inspire and encourage our children to become ‘job creators’ instead of ‘job seekers,’” she added.
For those interested, the West Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) office is situated at Rogorogoivuda House in Lautoka.