THE Fiji Agri-Innovate Competition 2025 yesterday named its top winners following an intense closed-door pitching by 12 entrepreneurs shortlisted for funding and recognition.
Joeli Waqanivalu of Island Eco-Smart, Subahsni Shobna Lal of Freedom Farm and Jashnita Reddy Lal of Nature Farm Fresh were chosen as strong contenders in their innovation, passion and commitment to transforming Fiji’s agrifood sector.
The competition, funded by the European Union with technical support by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), is organised by Business Assistance Fiji (BAF) in partnership with the Ministry of Commerce and Business Development and the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways.
“We have witnessed an incredible journey of innovation and dedication from all participants since the launch of the competition,” BAF’s acting general manager Nitika Singh said.
“These top 12 finalists represent the bright future of Fiji’s agri-food sector. The showcase and pitching competition are the final, crucial steps in a process that included an intensive 10 days of virtual bootcamp to enhance their business knowledge and investment readiness.”
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the two-day event yesterday, assistant FAO representative in Fiji Joann Young said she hoped the competition would boost the Fijian agribusiness ecosystem.
“Innovative agribusinesses will drive agrifood systems – the systems that feed all Fijians, to become more resilient and sustainable,” she said.
The three winners will receive $5000 each in funding to advance their venture and also an opportunity to pitch their innovations at the MSME Conference 2026.
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