When Shayal Singh entered the Pacific Agri-Innovate Competition in 2024, she saw it as an opportunity to grow, learn, and strengthen her business. What she did not expect was how deeply the experience would transform Million Green Fiji, from a well-known local agribusiness into a recognised name across the region.
“We started as an online education platform promoting agriculture, food security, climate action, and healthy living, and over time we grew into a trusted agribusiness supporting sustainable communities,” Shayal shared.
The Entity began operations in 2019. What started as a space to share knowledge and encourage people to grow their own food gradually evolved into a trusted agribusiness supplying premium fruit trees, grafted citrus, herbs, spices, compost, and sustainable landscaping solutions.
As the business grew in purpose and direction, it rebranded to Mission Green Fiji to reflect a stronger commitment to improving agriculture nationwide and advancing regenerative and climate-smart farming.
Her decision to enter the Pacific Agri-Innovate Competition came from a desire to expand the reach of the business and strengthen its long-term impact. “We entered the competition to scale our impact, strengthen regional partnerships, and accelerate innovation in sustainable agriculture while contributing to resilient food systems across the Pacific” shared by Shayal.
The competition was funded by the European Union in the Pacific through the Sustainable Transformation of Domestic Agrifood Systems in Fiji, Solomon Islands, and Samoa (STODAS) Project and technically supported by Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nation (FAO). It was led by Business Assistance Fiji (BAF) in partnership with the Ministry of Commerce and Business Development and the Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways, Sugar Industry.
The competition quickly proved to be a turning point. It exposed Million Green Fiji to regional networks, mentors, and investors, allowing the business to gain visibility and credibility beyond Fiji. The experience also equipped Shayal with practical knowledge that helped refine the company’s strategy and strengthen its foundation. “Through the competition, we gained valuable exposure to regional agribusiness networks, investors, and mentors, which strengthened our presence at both the national and Pacific level,” she explained.
Beyond technical knowledge, the experience also influenced how Shayal approached leadership and decision-making. As a woman in agribusiness, the competition strengthened her confidence and sharpened her sense of purpose. “It strengthened my confidence as a woman leader and helped me embrace data-driven decision-making while leading with purpose and long-term vision,” she said.
She added that “The mentorship from Business Assistance Fiji and peer learning encouraged collaborative leadership, resilience, and clarity as we continue to scale our business.” A major part of Million Green Fiji’s continued growth came through the 10-day virtual bootcamp and the mentoring support provided. Shayal developed new skills in business pitching, impact measurement, financial planning, and scaling sustainable agriculture models. These lessons helped her see the business from a more strategic lens and prepared her for the next stage of growth. “We developed key skills in pitching, impact measurement, and financial planning, and deepened our knowledge of climate-smart practices, market access, and partnership building” Shayal expressed.
This financial strengthening became especially important when Million Green Fiji applied for support through Business Link Pacific (BLP). With clear and well-structured financial records in place, the business was able to present a strong and credible case. “Having clear financials showed that we had realistic budgets, sustainable cash-flow projections, and a clear growth strategy, which helped build confidence among assessors.”
Securing support through the BLP grant marked a major milestone for Million Green Fiji, fast-tracking the company’s expansion and strengthening its foundations for long-term growth. The funding delivered immediate, practical benefits by the upgrading of essential facilities, enhancing output capabilities, and ensuring reliable access to higher-quality inputs.
With stronger systems in place, Million Green Fiji was better positioned to meet rising demand and operate at a higher standard of efficiency.
“The grant strengthened our operations by improving infrastructure, production capacity, and access to quality inputs, allowing us to scale and operate more efficiently,” Shayal said. “It also helped us put better systems in place and positioned us to grow nationally while delivering stronger environmental, social, and economic impact.”
Winning the Pacific Agri-Innovate Competition also elevated Shayal’s voice within the agribusiness sector. The recognition opened doors to new collaborations and strengthened Million Green Fiji’s presence beyond its immediate operations. “Winning the competition elevated our profile and connected us with regional networks, government agencies, and partners who share our vision for sustainable agriculture,” she explained.
“Our journey has allowed us to advocate for climate-smart practices and inspire women, youth, and farmers to pursue innovative and environmentally conscious farming.”
Looking back, Shayal describes the experience as transformative, not just for the business, but for her personal growth as a founder and leader.
“The competition strengthened my leadership, strategic thinking, and confidence in scaling Million Green Fiji,” she reflected. “It provided mentorship and access to resources that accelerated our growth and impact.” Her message to other women entrepreneurs considering similar opportunities is simple and encouraging.
“Embrace the opportunity, be open to learning, and showcase your vision boldly. Your ideas and resilience can grow your business and inspire change across communities.”
From its beginnings as a small educational platform to becoming a recognised agribusiness with regional connections, Mission Green Fiji’s journey highlights what can happen when passion is matched with the right opportunities and support.
Through the Pacific Agri-Innovate Competition, the guidance of BAF and the support of the BLP grant, Shayal Singh has taken her vision to new heights growing not only plants, but a movement rooted in sustainability, resilience, and impact.
