The Malaita Provincial Government (MPG) plans to launch its Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) initiative next month.
The launching is being planned for December 4, 2024.
Its the first time the province is introducing such a program which is aimed at supporting micro and medium enterprises in the province.
The MSME initiative is designed to promote and encourage the growth of small businesses in the province, helping them improve their services and contribute to the local economy.
It is expected to provide significant relief to small business owners in Malaita who have struggled to expand their operations and better serve the population.
The initiative aligns with the national government’s broader policy to support the growth of MSMEs across the country.
According to reports, the advisory committee for the MSME program in Malaita recently met and agreed to move forward with the launch next month.
Committee member Francis Samo confirmed that the advisory committee had met with the Malaita Provincial Secretary to finalize the launch plans.
He said that once the initiative is officially launched, local businesses will be able to apply for small grants through the MSME platform.
The grant applications will allow businesses to access funding with a minimum amount of SBD$10,000, aimed at supporting their development and expansion.
The funding for the initiative comes from the provincial government.
“Once the platform is launched, it will open for small local businesses to apply for small grants.
“This is a great opportunity for the people of Malaita to access financial support and grow their businesses,” said Mr. Samo.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki