The Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives and Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications (‘Ministry’) was allocated $1.4 million in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises’ (‘MSMEs’) Enterprise Development Programmes (‘Programmes’) in 2022/2023 financial year that supported the following objectives:
- promotion of young entrepreneurial spirit;
- propel export competitiveness;
- amplify innovation of our skills based businesses;
- enhanced employment opportunities and economic vibrancy within communities in the area of eco-tourism and agri-business; and
- drive economic advancement in the Northern Division.
These Programmes pave the way for positive impacts throughout the entire supply chain.
The Fiji Government recognises the impact of the Programmes and their ability to support and nurture our MSMEs. As a result, the Ministry was fortunate to be allocated an increased budget of $2.6 million allocated from the 2023/2024 National Budget.
Given this consideration the Ministry is delighted to announce the release of the Expression of Interest (‘EOI’) for the Programmes:
(1) Integrated Human Resource Development Programme (‘IHRDP’)
(2) National Export Strategy
(3) Northern Development Programme
(4) Trade Enhancement Programme (‘TEP’)
The Fiji Government focuses on fostering economic growth, diversification and innovation, these Programmes are set to invigorate Fiji’s business landscape.
With an eye on the future, the Ministry has reviewed its policies with the aim for a New and United Fiji – that embraces the Circular and Digital Economy and works towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Additionally, the Ministry has increased the grant threshold for IHRDP from $100,000 to $150,000 and TEP from $500 to $1,000. The increase in the limit of the assistance will enable the Ministry to adequately fund the capital items intended to increase the productivity of the Trade-skill based micro businesses and advance the development of peri-urban, rural and maritime areas.
By strategically fostering employment opportunities, the Programmes generate a ripple effect that translates to increased economic activities, promotion of economic diversification and driving sustainable socio-economic growth.
During the first ever workshop for the Income Generating Programme for MSMEs on Tuesday 15 August 2023, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica stated that “The Grant programmes are not merely just a financial support system, it symbolises a powerful assurance to empower, uplift and strengthen a key element of Fiji’s road to economic growth and development.”
The Ministry’s EOI extends an invitation to all interested MSMEs including co-operatives businesses to step forward and seize this remarkable opportunity. The EOI is open and the deadline for submissions is 6 October 2023.
For more information and to apply, please visit our website on www.mcttt.gov.fj or call/viber us on MSME Fiji helpline 9986 014
EOI – MSME Fiji Enterprises Development Programmes
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