Outer Islands Development Grant Funds very successful

The scheme to assist with the setting up of small private sector projects which can create business and job opportunities for Cook Islanders living in the outer islands is working well.
The funds are administered by the Business and Trade Investment Board from funds jointly funded by NZAID and the Cook Islands Government.
Head of BTIB, Terry Rangi said the outer islands development grant funds
(OIDGF) has been under their direction only since 2007, but in that short space of time, they have been able to assist with many small projects to the tune of just under $400,000.
Priority areas under the grant scheme are marine resources or marine based proposal; agriculture; tourism proposals (other than tourism accommodation or lagoon cruises in Aitutaki); projects for the supply of Rarotonga or overseas; and niche products not present on the island (eg mechanics workshop).
Agriculture projects are very popular such as the Mapumai Growers Association in Atiu who were granted $24,171 toward the fencing off of their taro patches to prevent wild pigs from raiding their tua repo and ruining their crops. The total for Atiu including the other 4 approved projects was $46,212.
On the island of Mauke, quite a few applications have been approved, ranging from fishing, screen printing, bread making, catering, Mauke coconut oil, carving, and a piggery coming to a total of $76,190 for all 23 projects on the island. BTIB acknowledge the assistance of Nane Williams for those on Mauke by ensuring their applications are correctly filled out.
Mitiaro projects that have been approved range from a bakery, fishing, carving shell project, lawn mowing, mechanic project and handicrafts with a total of $27,250 for the 7 projects.
Three projects were approved for Mangaia for a cafe, builder and mechanic workshop and a niche project with a total of $40,455 for the island.
Manihiki has had two projects, one for fishing and the other for pearl seeding and for a total of $31,163 for the island.
Aitutaki has had 12 projects approved for a total $169,803 for the island. The projects range from agriculture, bar and restaurant, hydroponics, parasail, lodges, joinery, roaster hire, bone fishing and aquaculture.
Criteria is strict: OIDGF will provide funding on 1/3rd from the fund and 2/3rd from the applicant (based on cash on hand, land and assets values or such); a business plan; 2 letters of support (Mayor, MP or Island Secretary).
They must comply with the MFEM Act requirement of 3 quotes for amounts between $1,000 and $29,999 and only one application within an 18 month period will be accepted.
Further details are available from OIDGF officer, Selina Napa on 24246 or fax 24298 or cidib@cidib.gov.ck on www.cookislands-invest.com

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