Activities for SME Growth and Development

The activities of the R & D division via identification and development of pilot projects and new business opportunities stimulate the development of the SME sub sector. This includes developing an environment that enables SMEs to emerge and thrive through activities such as:

i. conducting market studies for export commodities
ii. promoting linkages between SMEs and other larger local and foreign enterprises
iii. lobbying for more friendly legal environment for SMEs both at national and municipal levels
iv. providing advisory services to SME operators
v. facilitating SME access to financial resources
vi. identifying and developing agro-based business opportunities which includes the development of markets and supplier-buyer linkages
vii. provide consultancy services to SMEs particularly on best practices and how they can improve their businesses
viii. conduct research on SMEs needs and recommend solutions
ix. collect and analyze data to determine the contribution of SMEs to the national economy
x. publish and distribute information on procedures and regulations which affect SME start-ups and operations in the major Fiji languages
xi. identity potential research partners and explore opportunities for collaboration
xii. survey publications relating to SMEs in order to enhance the Center’s information base
xiii. develop a research library and SME database
xiv. identity and develop markets for local commodities and for import substitutes
xv. conduct field surveys and prepare case studies on successful business models for adoption and replication by organizations which service SMEs
xvi. conduct research and make recommendations on incentives for large firms to support SME suppliers