Suva, Fiji, 16 November 2023– The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) marked a momentous occasion as it celebrated the graduation of participants from the 2023 Pacific Greenpreneurs Program – Fiji Cohort. The Honourable Assistant Minister for Finance, Esrom Immanuel was chief guest at the official ceremony held at the Holiday Inn, Suva, Fiji 

The Pacific Greenpreneurs Incubator and Accelerator Programs, are initiatives of the Pacific Green Entrepreneurs Network (PGEN), a program implemented by GGGI and funded by the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), which is dedicated to fostering green; sustainable, and innovative business solutions in the Pacific region.  

 Ms. Al-Jazi Al-Hanzab International Organizations Head Section Representative spoke on behalf of GGGI’s funding partner, the Qatar Fund for Development.
She stated in her recorded remarks, “Your success today is a testament to the proven determination to address our planet’s pressing challenges. I urge you to continue with the same passion and dedication that brought you here. Embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for it is in overcoming them that you will truly make a difference,” Ms. Al-Jazi Al Hanzab said. Fiji’s green entrepreneurs are uniquely positioned as drivers of innovation, holding the keys to unlocking a transition to a green and sustainable future for Fiji and the Pacific.  

 Commenting on the success of the program, Honorable Esrom Immanuel, Assistant Minister for Finance, stated his admiration for the graduates. ” As we recognize the graduates of the Incubator and Accelerator program, we also celebrate the shared vision and commitment of the GGGI and the Fiji Government in nurturing green entrepreneurs. Your innovative solutions and sustainable business models are key to addressing climate change and driving economic growth in an environmentally responsible manner,” Hon Immanuel stated.  

The graduation ceremony honored the achievements of the 15 incubator and 12 accelerator graduates for 2023, who successfully completed their respective programs and received certificates in recognition of their dedication and hard work. These diverse green entrepreneurs focus on agriculture, manufacturing & handicrafts, sustainable tourism and transport, circular economy, and information technology.  

Mr. Daniel Muñoz-Smith, GGGI Country Representative for Fiji, Kiribati, Tonga, and Vanuatu, expressed his appreciation for the dedication of the participants and the support of the stakeholders. “These green entrepreneurs before us are not just business leaders; they are visionaries and catalysts for change, holding the keys to unlock a transition to a greener and more sustainable future for Fiji and the Pacific,” Mr. Muñoz-Smith said. “Today, GGGI and our funding partner QFFD proudly honor the achievements of the 15 incubator and 12 accelerator graduates of 2023, who have completed their programs with dedication,” he added. 

Highlighting the commitment to supporting green entrepreneurship, the event also featured the announcement of winners for the Business Plan competition. Six outstanding entrepreneurs from the Incubator program were awarded USD $5,000 (approximately FJD $11,250) each in recognition of their innovative business model and plans that align with sustainable development goals.  

For the first time, selected Accelerator graduates received a significant boost through zero-interest repayable grants, with nine deserving growth-stage green enterprises being awarded funds of between USD $30,000 to $50,000 each (approximately FJD $68,500 to $112,500). This financial support aims to fuel the growth of these green businesses and contribute to the overall sustainability of Fiji and the Pacific region.  

In total, USD 350,000 (approximately FJD $800,000) in grants were awarded at the event, bringing the total funds awarded to Fijian enterprises since the commencement of PGEN to over USD $400,000 (approximately FJD $925,000) to date. 

The Pacific Greenpreneurs graduation event not only recognized individual accomplishments but also reinforced the importance of collaborative efforts in building a green and resilient economy and provided an opportunity for graduates to showcase their green businesses.  

Speaking on behalf of the graduating Incubator Greenpreneurs, Ms. Senirosi Bevu, founder of Haven on Earth Natural Blends thanked GGGI and QFFD.  “Thank you for your unwavering support. Your organizations play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of sustainable development, not only in the Pacific but on a global scale. Your commitment to fostering green initiatives and empowering the next generation of leaders is truly commendable” Ms. Bevu expressed. “Our journey through the Greenpreneurs program has equipped us with the tools to tackle environmental challenges, drive innovation, and contribute to the sustainable growth of our Fijian communities,” she further stated.  

Ms. Anita Karan, founder of Hydro-Greens and a recipient of the repayable grant of USD 30,000 also shared her feeling of the support. “We not only enhance our businesses for the benefit of our families but also create employment opportunities for others in our communities,” she shared. She further remarked that business support and financial assistance received as part of the Accelerator program will “undoubtedly contribute to the growth and prosperity of our nation”. 

The Fiji Incubator & Accelerator Greenpreneur graduates are part of the regional Pacific Greenpreneurs alumni, comprised of early-stage green enterprises who have completed the program in Fiji, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Tonga and Vanuatu. 

For more information on the Pacific Green Entrepreneurs Network, visit: www.pacificgreenpreneurs.com 

About Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD):  

Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) is a Qatari public institution committed, on behalf of the State of Qatar, to implement foreign aid projects by international best practices and standards.  

Since 2012, QFFD has been providing aid to many countries in accordance with the international cooperation goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. Its primary goal is to achieve inclusive and sustainable development by addressing global priority issues in education, health, and economic development. In this context, priority is given to the following Sustainable Development Goals:  

1.     SDG 3: “Ensuring healthy lives and well-being for all”;  

2.     SDG 4: “Ensuring fair and inclusive education for all and enhancing lifelong learning for all”;  

3.     SDG 8: “Promoting sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth and keeping full and productive employment and decent work for all.”  

To realize the optimal development impact, QFFD projects are also designed to have cross-cutting co-benefits within SDG (2) on “Zero hunger” and SDG (6) on “Ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all” in addition to SDG (17) on “Partnerships to Achieve Goals.”   

QFFD cooperates with many reputable actors through strategic partnerships both locally and internationally. These include Civil Society Organizations, government agencies, UN agencies, and the private sector.