The Government has reaffirmed its ongoing support for private sector and workers’ organisations, with the formal announcement of grants under two national assistance programmes.
The Minister of Commerce, Industry and Labour, Afioga Leatinuu Wayne Sooialo, delivered the keynote address on Wednesday morning, 26 June 2025, highlighting the significance of the initiatives during the official ceremony in Apia.
Eight private sector organisations have been approved for support under the Private Sector Organisations Grant, while four workers’ associations will receive assistance through the Workers Associations Grant.
Leatinuu said the support for private sector bodies is designed to strengthen their internal operations and develop new initiatives that benefit their members and the broader economy. The grant programme began in 1997 and continues to align with national frameworks such as the Samoa Small Business Development Policy 2020 and the Industry Development Policy 2024–2034.
The Minister acknowledged the value these organisations bring, saying the Government remains committed to building the private sector and expanding job opportunities through annual assistance.
He also noted that some organisations have previously failed to meet reporting requirements, prompting the introduction of formal funding agreements to ensure compliance and improve accountability. These agreements were signed again during the ceremony.
The second initiative, targeting workers’ associations, is now in its third year. The programme supports tripartite dialogue and the development of governance structures for organisations that represent workers across various sectors.
Four associations met the eligibility criteria for 2024–2025:-
- Public Servants Association
- Samoa Nurses Association
- Samoa Seafarers and Maritime Workers Association
- Samoa Medical Association
Leatinuu encouraged all associations to meet reporting and registration requirements to remain eligible for future funding.
He concluded by thanking all participating groups for their role in advancing Samoa’s economy and called for continued collaboration in creating a stronger and more sustainable future.
The event comes as the country prepares for the general election in August.
The Private Sector Organisations Grant began in 1997, and the Workers Associations Grant in 2022. Both are administered by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour. The programmes align with the Samoa Small Business Development Policy 2020, the Industry Development Policy 2024–2034, and Priority Areas 8–10 of the Pathway for the Development of Samoa 2021–2026.
