The Agri-Innovate Competition 2025 has officially kicked off in Suva, aimed at fostering innovation and sustainable growth within Fiji’s agriculture and agri-food sectors. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving Business Assistance Fiji (BAF), the Ministry of Finance, Commerce and Business Development, the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, along with international supporters such as the European Union and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.
As part of the Sustainable Transformation of Domestic Agri-food Systems in Fiji (STODAS) project, the competition introduces Fiji’s first Agribusiness Incubation Centre. This center is designed to provide entrepreneurs with tailored training, mentorship, and essential resources to help them refine and expand their innovative solutions.
Nitika Singh, acting general manager of BAF, emphasized that participation is open to businesses operating within the agriculture, agri-food, or value-chain sectors that are registered in Fiji. She noted, “We’re looking for ventures that show growth potential, innovation, and market readiness.”
The competition will curate a selection of 20 agri-innovators, with the top 10 finalists invited to a virtual 10-day bootcamp. The three leading participants will each earn $5,000 in funding and will get the chance to pitch their concepts at the MSME Conference 2026.
Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel heralded the launch as a significant milestone, suggesting that the innovation stemming from this competition could strengthen Fiji’s food systems, lessen dependency on imports, enhance value creation, and generate employment opportunities. Minister for Agriculture and Waterways Tomasi Tunabuna reassured participants that the competition is an opportunity to gain valuable knowledge, mentorship, exposure, and network connections to elevate their businesses.
Joann Suyi Young, assistant FAO representative in Fiji, highlighted the importance of every participant’s contributions, whether they are focused on sustainable horticulture, value-added products, digital agriculture, agro-processing, or climate-smart farming. The Agri-Innovate Competition 2025 is poised to act as a transformative catalyst for innovation, sustainable development, and strengthened partnerships in Fiji’s agri-food sector. Applications are currently open and will close on January 14, 2026.
Leave a comment