IUM and BCC to Host 'Taiga Tank – Fuvahmulah 2026' Business Pitch Competition

The Faculty of Economics and Management Studies (KEMS) of the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM), in partnership with Business Centre Corporation (BCC), has made preparations to hold a business proposal pitching competition named "Taiga Tank – Fuvahmulah 2026" in Fuvahmulah City on the 20th and 21st of this month. The initiative, held specifically for the youth of Fuvahmulah, aims to foster a culture of innovative and creative business on the island. It includes encouraging young people to view starting their own business as a career, rather than relying solely on seeking employment. IUM stated that by the end of the programme, participants will gain practical business skills and confidence, and will acquire the capability to build businesses of a standard that can serve the community. The programme began with a business proposal writing workshop held at the IUM Fuvahmulah Campus on the 2nd of this month. A mentor has been assigned to each team, and work is underway to prepare proposals under their guidance. On Friday the 20th of this month, from 4:30pm to 6:00pm, a "Success Story of Entrepreneurs" session is scheduled at the Fuvahmulah City Council's Kurudumaa Maalam, featuring a businessman who has achieved success in Fuvahmulah sharing his experience. On the same night, from 8:30pm to 10:00pm, a panel discussion will be held on the skills needed for the 21st century job market and entrepreneurial skills. On the following day, the 21st, from 8:00am to 12:00pm, participants' business proposals will be presented at Kurudumaa Maalam. The awards ceremony is scheduled for that night at 8:00pm at Ocean Palm. The top three teams will be selected by combining 85 marks from a panel of judges and 15 marks from public votes, with cash prizes arranged for the top three teams. The initiative, held in cooperation with Fuvahmulah City Council, is sponsored by Amana Takaful (Maldives) PLC, Dhivehi Insurance, Ocean Palm and Rashi Events. The opportunity to attend and observe these activities has been opened to the public.