FDB Market Day Showcases Women Entrepreneurs in Lead-Up to International Women’s Day

The Fiji Development Bank (FDB) today hosted its Market Day at the Bank’s Head Office carpark in Suva, bringing together 30 women entrepreneurs to showcase their businesses ahead of International Women’s Day on 8 March.

The event provided a vibrant platform for women-led enterprises to sell locally produced goods, ranging from fresh produce and food products to handicrafts and art. Participating vendors included FDB customers and members of the Women Entrepreneurs Business Council (WEBC), gaining increased visibility, direct access to customers, and valuable opportunities to grow their networks.

As Fiji’s development finance institution, FDB recognises that advancing women’s economic participation is fundamental to building a stronger and more inclusive national economy. The businesses featured at Market Day reflect the growing impact of women- led enterprises across the country—supporting families, generating employment, and strengthening community resilience.

Speaking at the event, FDB Chief Executive Officer, Mr Filimone Waqabaca, highlighted the broader impact of empowering women economically:
“When women succeed in business, the benefits extend far beyond individual
enterprises. Families gain stability, children gain opportunities, communities become more resilient, and the national economy becomes stronger and more inclusive. Today’s Market Day is a celebration of these achievements and a reminder of the importance of creating opportunities for women to fully participate in Fiji’s economic development.”

Mr Waqabaca said that while events such as Market Day provide important exposure, sustained support through accessible finance remains critical.

Recognising the barriers women often face in accessing capital, FDB continues to promote its Loan for Women Entrepreneurs, designed to support women-owned and women-led MSMEs. The facility makes financing more accessible and responsive to the realities of women in business, supporting start-ups, working capital, asset purchases, and expansion.
Women Entrepreneurs Business Council (WEBC) Vice Chair Ms Patricia Naisara also acknowledged the importance of partnership and sustained support for women in business.

“WEBC is grateful to institutions like the Fiji Development Bank that recognise the value of investing in women and creating spaces for women entrepreneurs to grow. Their continued engagement and collaboration with WEBC reflects a shared commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment in Fiji. This year’s International Women’s Day theme, ‘Give to Gain,’ reminds us that when women are given access to opportunity, capital, mentorship, and support, the benefits ripple far beyond the individual— strengthening families, communities, and the wider economy.”

Beyond financing, FDB works with partners such as WEBC to strengthen business capability, promote financial literacy, and encourage the long-term sustainability of women-led enterprises.

Through initiatives such as this, FDB continues to back women entrepreneurs as they grow their enterprises, contribute to their communities, and play an increasingly vital role in Fiji’s economic development.