Fiji Development Bank Launches Awareness and Education Programme for Women Entrepreneurs

Suva, Fiji. The Fiji Development Bank (FDB) has partnered with New Zealand to deliver a month-long awareness and educational programme for women entrepreneurs throughout the month of February.

The FDB will highlight and promote its ‘Loan for Women Entrepreneurs’ Product through increased outreach programmes.

In August 2022, the Bank sought to boost the number of women engaged in businesses to further develop the Fijian economy, and in response to increase the women entrepreneurs within FDB’s portfolio, this loan product was conceptualised.

This loan product was specifically designed for women entrepreneurs with registered MSME businesses in operation for 3 months or more who required working capital or needed to expand their existing business. Positive results of this proactive outreach were quick to the uptake, and as of November last year, FDB had approved more than 1,000 loans dedicated to supporting women-owned business ventures.

The FDB CEO, Mr. Saud Minam and the New Zealand High Commissioner, H.E. Ms. Charlotte Darlow, were present during the launch.

Mr. Minam noted the Bank’s excitement in assisting women entrepreneurs to gain easier access to financial solutions for launching and operating their businesses and providing them education through Digital Financial Literacy programs.

“One of the Bank’s core values is ‘development’ where we continually focus on the economic development of our country. Frankly, this is why we exist and is embedded in our name. Our commitment lies in fostering Fiji’s growth and ensuring that success touches every member of our community.”

The CEO added that, “With this support from New Zealand, this will enable FDB to continually build on both Fijian women’s empowerment and fostering entrepreneurship avenues.”

High Commissioner Darlow said, “Supporting female entrepreneurship in Fiji has substantial positive effects on livelihoods, economic development, and social empowerment at both the community and national levels. We are delighted to be partnering with the Fiji Development Bank on this important initiative.

FDB CEO, Mr. Saud Minam