THE Fiji Development Bank (FDB) has signed a major three-year sponsorship agreement with the Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards (FETA), securing its spot as the official Naming Rights Sponsor of FETA, Fiji’s premier tourism awards platform.
As part of the agreement, the event will be rebranded “FDB Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards”, with the sponsorship set to run from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2029, according to a statement from the FDB.
FETA chairperson Debra Sadranu said the partnership represents a significant milestone for the awards and the broader tourism sector.
“The Fiji Development Bank naming rights sponsorship ensures that our board of trustees can maintain its unwavering commitment to honouring the organisations, individuals and stakeholders who exemplify excellence in the tourism industry,” she said.
In his speech, FDB chief executive officer Filimone Waqabaca said the tourism sector was seen by the bank as a key driver of economic growth and its exposure to it made the partnership an ideal synergy.
“As of December 2025, FDB’s support to the tourism sector and related businesses includes over 400 loan accounts, with a total value exceeding $64 million — contributing to both direct and indirect impacts on employment, local supply chains, and community livelihoods across Fiji.
“By partnering with FETA, we are reinforcing our commitment to supporting businesses in this sector — not just through financing but also by providing recognition and opportunities that help them thrive.
“This partnership also represents the Bank’s largest sponsorship investment towards the tourism sector to date.”
FETA, he added, was more than an event.
“It is a celebration of the innovation, dedication, and professionalism that drive our tourism sector.
“These awards recognise businesses and individuals who continually raise the standard, inspire others, and showcase Fiji to the world.
“For tourism businesses, this recognition is invaluable, not only enhances credibility but also encourages investment, strengthens brands, and highlights the role these enterprises play in our economy.”
He said by partnering with FETA, the bank was reinforcing its commitment to supporting businesses in the tourism sector— not just through financing but also by providing recognition and opportunities that help them thrive.
FDB takes over from ANZ Fiji, which has been supporting the event as naming rights sponsor for more than a decade.
