Atunaisa Rainima’s landscaping business, a venture fully funded through the Young Entrepreneur Scheme (YES) has begun churning profits with potential customers already lining up.
Mr Rainima was among the early YES recipients and a year down the line, his hard work and perseverance is finally bearing results.
The 23-year-old from Cautata, Tailevu had devised a business invention that would use waste from his landscaping business as an input for biogas production.
So far, he has received the full funding of $20,000 which allowed him to purchase equipment and a bio-digester which is yet to be set up.
“The waste from grass cutting and landscaping can be utilized as a resource to create a usable product.
“My grandfather used to do this at home, but on a smaller scale. So, with this model I can supply biogas at an affordable rate and people can use this instead of cutting trees for firewood,” said Mr Rainima.
The prospect of a readily available energy source has piqued curiosity and interest among communities.
“I am just waiting for the delivery of the bio-digester so that I can set it up.
“I also need to conduct tests to ensure it is functioning well before I can start supplying the product commercially.”
Meanwhile, his landscaping business has secured its first official contract with Bau Central College.
“With the success of my venture, there will be less reliance on non-renewable energy sources.”
He currently employs his cousin, grandfather and uncle and hopes to employ more people once the scale of operation grows.
Edited by Susana Tuilau
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