BSP SUPPORTS MICRO SME THROUGH “YES GROW” PROGRAM

BY RAYLEEN WANJIMAN

SMALL and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of employment in Papua New Guinea, says Bank South Pacific (BSP).

Last night, 19 entrepreneurs graduated from the 2026 YES Grow enterprise program at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby, marking another milestone in BSP’s ongoing effort to empower micro and small businesses.

Speaking at the ceremony, BSP Chief Executive Mark Robinson highlighted that the program, delivered in partnership with Australian Business Volunteers (ABV), equips participants with practical business skills, mentoring and most importantly networks of suppliers, customers, advisors, and bankers which are essential ingredients for business success.

BSP CEO Mark Robinson stressed that YES Grow is not just about learning business skills, it’s about building the connections that open doors for future growth, While major projects are important for the economy, small businesses remain the lifeline of communities across PNG.

For the graduates, the program is more than training it is a source of inspiration. Most of them said the mentoring and networking opportunities gave them the confidence to grow their businesses, create jobs and contribute to their communities.

Since its launch, the YES Grow program has supported more than 402 entrepreneurs nationwide and is set to expand to the Solomon Islands, creating more jobs and opportunities for the next generation of business leaders.