MORE than $4million has been distributed to Fijian micro, small and medium enterprises over the last five years.
While distributing 14 grants worth $900,000 in Lautoka yesterday, Finance Minister Esrom Emmanuel said most of the $4m was distributed in the region.
He said the grants were made under the Integrated Human Resources Development (IHRD) and Cooperatives Development Fund (CDF) programs.
“This is not a handout, it is a hand–up,” said Mr Emmanuel.
“When you put your own resources into your projects, you show ownership, commitment and confidence — and that is what drives lasting success.
“Through the ministry, the Government has invested over $900,000 in grants.
“Under IHRDP, we work in partnership. Recipients provide a one–third contribution and where needed, financial institutions also come on board to support the growth and expansion of businesses.
“This shared approach is designed to strengthen you for the long term.”
He said within the Ba Province, Government has invested more than $470,000 through the MSME programs.
“This demonstrates the province’s leadership in agriculture and tourism, which remain key pillars of our economic growth.
“From farms to tourism services, Ba is showing how initiatives, supported by Government, can transform livelihoods.”
“This co–investment model recognises that real development is done with communities, not for communities.”
