21 young entrepreneurs awarded grants

By Ema Ganivatu

21 graduates from across Fiji have each received $5,000 under the country’s first-ever Graduate Business Start-Up Grant Scheme, launched by the Coalition Government.

The initiative, introduced in the 2024–2025 National Budget, aims to support innovative and scalable business ideas from tertiary graduates. It forms part of a wider government push to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which contribute 18% to Fiji’s GDP and 60% of national employment.

Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad officiated at the event, praising the diversity of the recipients, 70% of whom are women.

“This scheme is more than a financial grant; it’s an investment in our young minds and future business leaders. We are proud to empower graduates who will drive innovation and create jobs in our economy,” said Prasad.

He noted that the Coalition Government has allocated $80 million to support MSME activities.

“Just as the Government has done with this scheme, I encourage donor agencies and the private sector to invest further in such innovative initiatives,” he added.

The government will continue to focus on growing the MSME sector by engaging key stakeholders, such as the Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF), to provide further support.

Among the recipients is 22-year-old Kelevi Stark, who will now launch Starks Catering and Events.

“I was envisioning starting a business when I was seven years old, but I never thought it would become a reality,” said Stark.

“It’s overwhelming. I’m not a child of a doctor or an engineer, I’m a market vendor’s son. This is my story, my legacy.”

Stark expressed gratitude to the government for launching the program and described it as a “great opportunity.” He also encouraged future applicants to take full advantage of such initiatives.