Eleven local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have each been awarded approx. PGK22,000 in seed funding to advance innovative climate-resilient solutions, marking an important step in strengthening Papua New Guinea's emerging green economy.
The funding announcements follow an intensive capacity-building process where participants received training, coaching, mentorship, business planning support, pitch preparation, and investor-readiness assistance to help transform innovative ideas into viable green enterprises.
Australia is proud to support the PNG Greenpreneurs through the PNG Climate Finance Initiative for Resilience and Sustainable Transition (Climate FIRST) program. Through the Climate FIRST program, Australia is partnering with the Government of Papua New Guinea to strengthen the capacity of PNG SMEs to build resilience to climate change, reduce emissions, and unlock sustainable, low-carbon investment opportunities.
The training highlighted the significant potential of local entrepreneurs to contribute to PNG's climate and development priorities and the graduates had demonstrated how innovation and entrepreneurship can help communities adapt to climate change while creating new economic opportunities.
The awards were presented during the PNG Greenpreneurs Graduation, which celebrated the achievements of 175 Greenpreneurs from seven provinces who completed a climate entrepreneurship development programme, and reaffirms Australia's commitment to supporting inclusive and sustainable economic growth in Papua New Guinea.
ENDS
(From left to right) Australian High Commission a/g Minister-Counsellor Ashley Brosnan, BPNG Assistant Governor-Mr. George Awap and CCDA Acting Managing Director, Ms. Debra Sungi and Mr. Tony Sulupin, founder of Lagaip Sangai Festival Business Group.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100