Labasa, 11 December 2025 – The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon Viliame Gavoka, today officially launched the Na Vualiku Grant and Capacity-Building Programme for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Women’s Cultural Enterprises, and Community-Based Tourism (CBT) Enterprises at the Ramada Hotel in Labasa.
Later today, the launch will continue in Savusavu, with a further session scheduled for tomorrow, 12 December, at the Somosomo Provincial Council Hall on Taveuni.
With a budget of US $3.2 million, the programme is designed to empower local businesses and communities to thrive in Fiji’s tourism economy, placing people at the heart of growth and ensuring opportunities reach those who preserve the culture, welcome visitors, and protect the environment.
Key components include:
CBT Grant Programme: Provides funding for community-owned tourism ventures to enhance visitor facilities such as walkways, eco-trails, cultural centres, signage, and other small-scale investments. The grants strengthen local livelihoods while improving the visitor experience.
MSME and Women’s Cultural Enterprises Capacity-Building Programme: Offers training and technical assistance in business operations, marketing, digital skills, and financial literacy. It equips micro, small, and women-led enterprises to grow sustainably, build confidence, and reach higher commercial standards.
Minister Gavoka encouraged communities, MSMEs, and women-led enterprises to participate.
“This is your opportunity to grow your enterprise, share your culture, and contribute to the prosperity of your community. Tourism thrives when our communities thrive. Step forward, apply, and let us build a future of shared success for Vanua Levu,” he said.
The launch underscores the Government’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable tourism development, ensuring that Vanua Levu and Taveuni communities benefit from growth in the tourism sector.
Applications are now open and can be collected from Na Vualiku offices in Savusavu, provincial offices in Macuata, Bua, and Cakaudrove, district offices in Taveuni, or online via the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation website. Applications close on 13 February 2026.
