Fiji Development Bank Champions the Future of Rural Women Entrepreneurs at M4C Event in Savusavu

The Fiji Development Bank (FDB) reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women in rural communities through its participation in the ‘Markets for Change’ (M4C) event held at Daku Resort, Savusavu. The event, hosted by UN Women, provided a platform for rural women entrepreneurs to learn about FDB’s tailored financial solutions, designed to foster long-term business prosperity in rural areas.

During the event, FDB showcased its flagship product, the Loan for Women Entrepreneurs, a key offering that has helped rural women break financial barriers, grow their businesses, and invest in a more secure future. This collaboration with UN Women and UNDP further emphasises FDB’s ongoing mission to provide accessible financial support to women in rural communities.

The Acting CEO of FDB, Ms. Titilia Vakaoca Kamil said, “Our focus extends beyond providing financial support. We see every business we support as an opportunity to invest in both people and their communities. These women are not only starting businesses, but they are also building legacies. It’s our privilege to walk alongside them on this journey.”

She also highlighted the importance of partnerships noting that, “This collaboration with the UN Women and UNDP reflects our collective strength. By working together, we ensure that local businesses have what they need to succeed.”

The M4C project, jointly implemented by UN Women and UNDP, focuses on empowering women vendors operating across 12 municipal markets in Fiji. The initiative is aimed at improving the socioeconomic security of women market vendors, enhancing market operations to be more gender-responsive, and ensuring that local governments are accountable to women vendors.

Representing FDB at the event was Savusavu Branch Manager, Mr. Adwin Sharan, who provided valuable insights into FDB’s services and financing opportunities for women entrepreneurs. A total of 80 participants, primarily market vendors and small-scale operators, attended the event, reinforcing the strong community interest in FDB’s offerings.

“Having the ability to grow my business with the support of FDB has changed my life,” shared one attendee. “Now I feel confident about expanding my market stall, and I see more opportunities for the future.”

By participating in the M4C event, FDB demonstrated its unwavering commitment to fostering long-term growth for rural women entrepreneurs. The Bank remains dedicated to supporting women in accessing financial tools that will not only sustain their businesses but help them thrive in the face of economic challenges.

“We are excited about the future of these businesses and the impact they will have on the community,” said Ms. Kamil. “At FDB, our mission is to be a dynamic financial service provider in the sustainable development of Fiji.”