Two hundred and five Fijians in Nadi and surrounding areas received one thousand dollars each from the small and micro business grants program today.

Handing out the cheque in front of a huge crowd, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama reminded the successful applicants this is a stepping stone to encourage more Fijians to open business or expand their business.

Bainimarama is encouraging small and micro businessmen and women to grow their business and build a national economy that’s strong and resilient.

“I appeal to you all to use the equipment and materials we’ve given you wisely and honestly. We’re putting our trust in you not to profit from it by selling it on to someone else. Use it to start your business, grow your business and with your success, reward the confidence that the Fijian taxpayer has placed in you.”

This is the 6th such ceremony of its kind after grant presentations in Suva, Navua, Sigatoka, Savusavu and Taveuni.

This week alone, 900 grants have been given out to ordinary Fijians.

The total number has now surpassed 2000.

Bainimarama adds that through this initiative- government has assisted more than 10,000 Fijians and expects many more in the months to come.