A total of $335,000 has been handed out to 24 recipients under a government-backed scheme aimed at turning grassroots ideas into viable, job-creating businesses.
The funding was awarded under the iTaukei Trust Fund Business and Investment Ready Support Grant Scheme.
Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu said more than 100 applications were received following a national expression of interest that closed on April 28.
The selected recipients underwent a three-stage assessment process, with criteria based on elevation, scalability and impact.
“Their goal was not only to find great ideas, but to bag the one most likely to generate employment, grow sustainably and bring meaningful development across different parts of Fiji,” Mr Vasu said.
“The selection panel also made a conscious effort to ensure national coverage with the aim of extending the reach and liquidity of this support.
“The projects supported four under-six strategic categories – one which was innovation, food processing and agricultural wellbeing, two is tourism development, three is projects aligned with Fiji Road Authority initiatives, four is community empowerment projects, five is bakery enterprises for local and rural livelihoods, and six is partnership with Tutu Rural Training Centre.”
He said the funding supported the goals of the Indo-Pacific Trust Fund and aligned with the National Development Plan.
Mr Vasu also said the grants were not just financial support, but part of a broader effort to integrate indigenous participation into the mainstream economy.
He urged recipients to show leadership and drive impact in their communities.
The government confirmed that applicants who were not selected had been encouraged to continue refining their proposals for future consideration.
“We urge you to be bold in your vision, diligent in your execution, and committed to uplifting others as you rise,” he said.
“To participants who were not selected, please do not be discouraged.
“We will continue to build this program, and we invite you to strengthen your proposal and re-engage in future activities.”
