A new pilot initiative is supporting women entrepreneurs in Fiji and Samoa to turn local food traditions and biodiversity into premium, market-ready products for the hospitality and retail sectors, as Pacific nations work to strengthen food security and expand economic opportunities.
The Idea2Market Regenerative Bioeconomy Initiative is a partnership between The Asia Foundation, Pacific Island Food Revolution, and Indonesia-based Seniman Pangan. The program aims to help women growers and small food businesses move beyond subsistence and low-income production through hands-on coaching, product development support, mentorship and market access.
In its first year, the initiative will directly support six women entrepreneurs from Fiji and Samoa. Participants will work with Seniman Pangan using its Idea2Market methodology to develop regenerative food products rooted in local ingredients and traditional knowledge.
Organisers said the program comes as Pacific countries seek to reduce reliance on imported processed foods, strengthen local food systems and create more opportunities for women and small businesses.
The Asia Foundation’s regional representative, Sandra Kraushaar, said the initiative reflects a broader regional shift toward strengthening women-led enterprises and building economic resilience.
