OVERVIEW
The Self-Help Programme was initiated to promote and assist rural dwellers in the construction of basic amenities and other small projects. Under this Programme, communities are encouraged to initiate their socio- economic sustainable development projects on a cost-sharing basis. The Programme has transitioned from solely focusing on social projects to a livelihoods approach as a means of empowering rural communities through the provision of income generating opportunities.

FUNDING CATEGORY
The Programme is classified into two different categories: Individual Assistance – is provided to individuals irrespective of gender. Community Assistance – to benefit a communal group. These includes registered women or youth groups, and faith based organisations that resides in the rural and maritime areas

ASSISTANCE PROVIDED
The Programme can cover all income generating, social livelihoods and small infrastructure projects. There are two types of funding assistance: Income Generating Projects (IGP) – Small Business projects, Farming Projects, Fishing Projects, handicraft, Small Joinery and Upholstery, Workshops etc. Social and Small Infrastructure – construction of basic amenities and small infrastructure projects

GRANT SCALE
The minimum cost of the project that can be funded is $2,000.00 and maximum is $30,000.00.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Eligibility will apply to two categories of applicants:

1. Individual

• Fiji Citizen – 18 years and above
• Permanently residing in a rural area and earning less than $30,000 annually
• Ability to contribute one third cash contribution of the total project cost

2. Community (Group/Cluster etc)

• Implementation of small infrastructure, social and communal IGP in the rural areas
• Project will benefit women, persons living with disability, older persons, youth and children
• Ability to contribute one third cash or in-kind contribution and labour assistance
• Ability to take-over the maintenance of the project and has the consent of the land owner

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

Individual Application

1. Business plan Cashflow
2. Business registration
3. Tax Identification Number (TIN)
4. Land consent Additional requirement

Additional Requirements:

• Be able to provide evidence of availability and ownership of resources/ assets to support application for IGP
• Confirmation letter from the Turaga ni Koro OR District Advisory Councilor will be required
• Support letter from line agency (if necessary) Community (Groups/Cluster etc)
• Be able to provide evidence of availability and ownership of resources/ assets to support your applications. This also apply for applicants for seeking assistance for Community IGP
• Confirmation letter from the Turaga ni Koro OR District Advisory Councilor will be required

Support letter from line agency (if necessary).