Fiji’s efforts to strengthen private sector growth have gained momentum with the launch of a new pilot programme under the Fiji Enterprise Engine, designed to support local small and medium-sized businesses with capability building and targeted development.
The Fiji Times reported that the pilot programme is focused on helping enterprises strengthen operational systems, improve commercial readiness, and build sustainable growth pathways. In Fiji’s economy, SMEs remain the backbone of employment and local commerce, but many face persistent barriers such as limited access to finance, weak supply chains, skills shortages, and vulnerability to economic shocks.
Business development programmes are increasingly seen as essential, not only for entrepreneurship, but for improving productivity and long-term competitiveness. For Fiji, the ability of local firms to scale beyond micro-business level is particularly important in sectors such as agribusiness processing, niche manufacturing, digital services, and tourism supply.
The Fiji Enterprise Engine initiative reflects a growing recognition that the SME challenge is not simply funding. Many firms require structured mentoring, market linkages, compliance support, and export readiness planning.
The pilot programme is expected to identify promising businesses and provide support in areas such as governance, financial planning, marketing strategy, and operational discipline. For some firms, the outcome may be improved bankability, while for others it could mean readiness for partnerships, supply contracts, or international market entry.
The timing is significant. Fiji’s economy is stabilising after the pandemic shock, and policy settings are increasingly focused on growth through private sector investment, employment expansion, and diversification away from overdependence on tourism.
A stronger SME sector also supports inclusive growth. Many small enterprises are family-run and located outside major urban centres, meaning that improved business capability can translate into better income stability and job creation at community level.
If the pilot proves successful, it could be expanded into a larger national programme, contributing to Fiji’s wider economic strategy of building resilience, improving productivity, and strengthening export competitiveness.
