7.45
In the last four years, close to 4,000 individuals have been assisted through the Business Incubation Programme. Business Cluster Development
7.46
Clustering allows MSMEs to become more competitive by fostering inter – enterprise linkages as well as collaborative relations with local support institutions. It aims to assist MSMEs combine their strengths and take advantage of market opportunities to solve common problems.
7.47
NCSMED is actively working on developing the honey producing cluster in Ra, pearl farming in Savusavu, vegetable farming in Sigatoka, Ba, Ra, and Nadarivatu, and handicraft producers supplying the tourism market. MSME Product Display and Sales Centre
7.48
The MSME Product Display and Sales Centre at Unity House Suva will display and promote Fiji made products from MSMEs. The Centre will help link “Fijian Made products” to markets which would otherwise be difficult to reach by MSMEs located in rural and outer islands. Microfinance Programme – Delivery of Microfinance Services
7.49
There are currently 6 Microfinance Institutions (MFI‟s), MF West, FCOSS, MF Bua, Cooperative Navua, Cooperative Labasa, and MF Labasa. The total number of clients stands at 11,057 with total savings of $773,259 as at 31st August 2012.
7.50
Based on reviews and assessments conducted in 2011, the Reserve Bank in collaboration with Government will formulate a strategy to regulate all MFIs operating in Fiji to safeguard depositors‟ funds. Northern Development Programme
7.51
The Northern Development Programme (NDP) has contributed to improving the livelihoods of Fijians in Vanua Levu. Since the commencement of the programme in 2008 and up till September 2012, a total of $4.6 million has been distributed as equity assistance grant from Government and a further $5.0 million has been provided to borrowers from commercial lenders. A total of 1,555 entrepreneurs have benefitted from the equity assistance.
7.52
For 2013, Government has provided $1.0 million towards the NDP. 79