Women have been urged to guide young individuals interested in starting their own businesses.
Losana Marama, a representative from West Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, spoke to attendees 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 shared that the initiative aims to offer grants to young, aspiring entrepreneurs with innovative and viable business ideas. The Government’s Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport provides financial support of up to $30,000 for successful entrepreneurs aged 18 to 40 years, enabling them to nurture or grow their innovative ventures.
“If your child possesses creative and innovative ideas, they can tap into this funding,” Ms. Marama stated. She highlighted that young entrepreneurs often come across trending business concepts on platforms like TikTok that are not yet present in Fiji, and her organization is there to facilitate access to the necessary funds.
“The limit is $30,000. It is a grant, not a loan. It is fully funded. If you recognize a talent in your child, it’s crucial to motivate and empower them,” she said.
Furthermore, Ms. Marama emphasized that the Government acknowledges the vital role young entrepreneurs occupy in driving economic development.
“As parents and guardians, it is essential that we inspire and encourage our children to be ‘job creators’ instead of ‘job seekers’,” she remarked.
For further assistance, the West Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) office is located at Rogorogoivuda House in Lautoka.