“Bringing out the best” in microfinance is the theme for this year’s National Microfinance Awards. The inaugural awards were launched by Governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji Barry Whiteside in Suva last month and will culminate this week with the presentation and recognition of outstanding entrepreneurial performance in the microfinance sector.
The National Microfinance Awards are jointly sponsored by the Reserve Bank of Fiji in partnership with Life Insurance Corporation of India and the Pacific Financial Inclusion Programme and aim to bring out the best in people, institutions and ideas. There are three main categories: –
1. Best Microfinance Entrepreneur Individual;
2. Best Microfinance Entrepreneur Partnerships/Co-operatives; and
3. Best Microfinance Service Provider.
The top three entries in each category will be recognised and will receive cash prizes as well as trophies for the winners.
Nominations received were predominately from Viti Levu and Vanua Levu with the majority of them being women entrepreneurs. A wide range of entries were received that included small businesses in poultry and dairy farming, tailoring, canteens, hiring services, hair salons, handicraft, screen printing and fishing. Candidates were put through a rigorous three phase selection process.
The recognition awards will be presented on Thursday 24 October 2013 during the Pacific Microfinance Week conference that will be held at the Sheraton Resort at Denarau Island in Nadi.
RESERVE BANK OF FIJI