More than 50 women from communities across Upolu have entered business literacy and microfinance training under the Nofotane Samoa Social Enterprise Project (NSSE). The programme is funded by the European Union and administered by SVSG.
The women recently completed life-skills training and are now moving into business development. Many are small-scale producers of sei, elei, clothing, handicrafts, and agricultural products. The training helps them strengthen their business knowledge and explore ways to turn their production into income-generating activities.
Participants from the 2024–2025 intake have shown strong interest in entering the business sector. Their discussions have been shaped by success stories from other Nofotane women who have already established small businesses and are now supporting their families through daily income.
The training covers banking, saving, marketing, and raising capital. SVSG also supports participants with business licence applications and provides bank confirmations for microfinance.
SVSG President Siliniu Lina Chang acknowledged the commitment of the women and the progress they have made in supporting their families and communities.
The Nofotane concept focuses on empowering women who often hold a low status within their husbands’ families. The project aims to help them achieve financial independence, strengthen their households, and reduce violence within families and communities.
Press Release from the Samoa Victim Support Group on the Nofotane Women from Across Upolu Advance to Business Training
