25 MSMEs to benefit from Fiji THRIVE Program’s business mentoring and support

25 micro, small and medium enterprises are set to benefit from the Fiji THRIVE Program, an initiative launched by BSP Financial Group (Fiji) Pte Limited in collaboration with Australian Business Volunteers aimed at empowering Fiji’s micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Bank South Pacific says this is the third year of the Fiji THRIVE Program which is an acronym for “Together, helping [to build a] Resilient, Inclusive [and] Vibrant Economy and it has enhanced their commitment to local business development and financial inclusion in Fiji.

They say participants completing this program will strengthen Fiji's MSME network while aligning with the National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2022-2030.

Bank South Pacific Country Head, Haroon Ali says they are delighted to continue this program with Australian Business Volunteers as their partner, bringing the highest quality of expertise to this program.

He says their skilled business professionals offer invaluable hands-on coaching and mentoring.

Ali says this next cohort will include Lachlan Duncan, who brings extensive experience in strategy and leadership and Catherine Corderoy who will provide expert insights into accounting and business management.

The Country Head says together with Australian Business Volunteers, they are proud to help local business thrive in line with their vision to champion prosperity for the South Pacific.

Australian Business Volunteers Chief Executive Officer Liz Mackinlay says they are proud to be partnering with Bank South Pacific on Fiji THRIVE to support MSME resilience building through practical, long-term business training, coaching, and mentoring.

She says they are continually impressed by the calibre of participants in the program, especially the growing number of women-led businesses.

Mackinlay says their dedication and innovation are helping to build a strong foundation for Fiji's economic future.

Bank South Pacific says the program includes three-day workshops tailored to meet participants' needs; one-on-one coaching sessions with ABV’s SBPs, participants will get help developing actionable 60-day business plans; and networking opportunities to connect MSMEs with industry experts, peers and potential partners.

They say Fiji THRIVE is supported by BSP’s local market knowledge and ABV’s international development expertise, the program delivers high-impact solutions that contribute to a resilient economy.

Bank South Pacific adds since launching in March 2023, 92 local businesses operating in the Northern, Central and Western division have gone through the Fiji THRIVE Program of which 66 percent were women-led.