Apply for FDB’s 2025 National SME Awards now!

The Fiji Development Bank (FDB) has officially launched the 2025 National SME Awards.

The 2025 theme, “Ignite. Innovate. Inspire.”, reflects both the journey of SMEs and the vision for Fiji’s future. The Awards are open to businesses at all stages—from early startups to established enterprises.

FDB Chief Executive Officer Filimone Waqabaca described Small and Medium sized enterprises (SMEs) as the backbone of Fiji’s development, drivers of innovation, and lifeblood of communities at the awards launch in Suva last week.

“MSMEs represent the diversity, resilience, and potential of Fiji—from farmers and agri-processors to tourism operators, manufacturers, and digital entrepreneurs,” the CEO said.

The bank reported significant contributions to MSME growth in its 2025 financial year. Fifty-four percent of loan disbursements were directed to rural areas, with 46 percent in urban areas. MSMEs accounted for more than 90 percent of total portfolio accounts, with nearly 30 percent held by women and 15 percent by youth. Over 80 percent of loans supported priority sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, construction, transport, and tourism, contributing directly to job creation and economic resilience across the country.

FDB is encouraging all SMEs across Fiji to apply for the FDB 2025 National SME Awards.

“This is an opportunity to showcase achievements, gain national recognition, connect with partners, and contribute to shaping Fiji’s economic future,” the CEO said.

Applications are open until 31 May 2026.

Last year’s winners included goat soap manufacturer Mesovu Fiji Pte Ltd (Beatrice Nast), Futuristic Farms (Balbir Singh), and Nabogiono Forest Park (Naresh Kumar).

FDB 2025 National Small and Medium Enterprise Awards – Fiji Development Bank