Financial support services for beekeepers: a case study of development interventions in Fiji's Northern Division

Purpose - This paper analyses financial support services (loans and grants) from the perspective of beekeepers in Fiji's Northern Division. Design/methodology/approach - A mixed-method, case study approach was used with key informant interviews, focus groups, semi-structured interviews and questionnaires. Findings - Financial support was found to be an appropriate intervention. While beekeepers have access to loans, matching grants or small business grants to assist the establishment and growth of their activities, the appropriateness of these services varies based on the experience and skill of beekeepers. Capacity building was an important shortcoming in all financial services. It is recommended beekeeping clients undertake outcome-based, practical and/or mentorship-styled training to ensure beekeepers have the appropriate skills to maintain a viable enterprise. Research limitations/implications - This study was limited by a small sample size. Further research is needed to understand long-term impacts of financial support services and the availability and appropriateness of these within and between regions. Social implications - Recommendations are provided to encourage effective financial support for beekeepers to improve the productivity, profitability and sustainability of their activities. This can impact beekeepers' livelihoods by increasing household income and income security. Originality/value - There is a paucity of literature on the effectiveness of financial interventions to support beekeeping enterprises. This is the first study to compare financial support services from the perspective of beekeepers in the Pacific region.