Acting Managing Director for Climate Change And Development Authority Ms. Debra Sungi says accross PNG, Micro and Small and Medium Enterprises, especially those led by women, youth, and rural entrepreneurs, hold the potential to drive grassroots climate-smart solutions in creating change.
Speaking during the launching of the “PNG Greenpreneurs Incubator Program last Friday at Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, Sungi said they are innovators, problem-solvers and job creators and with the right support, they can build enterprises that not only generate income, but also protect nature, reduce pollution, and strengthen community resilience.
“Firstly, let me express my sincere gratitude and congratulations to the Global Green Growth Institute on this milestone event, the launch of the PNG Greenpreneurs Initiative,”
“I also extend a very warm welcome to our distinguished guests, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Australia (DFAT), the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), our esteemed provincial and other government departments, alumni of the Pacific Green Entrepreneurs Network, and of course, all the aspiring entrepreneurs here with us and those who joined virtually from across the country.”
“Papua New Guinea is on the frontlines of climate change. We are experiencing firsthand the impacts of rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and coastal erosion. These challenges are not abstract, they affect our food systems, our water security, and our livelihoods.”
“That is why the Government of PNG, through the Climate Change and Development Authority, is deeply committed to delivering on our climate goals, as outlined in our Enhanced Nationally Determined Contributions and long-term climate strategies. As the national agency mandated to coordinate climate action, CCDA remains focused on ensuring that climate priorities are mainstreamed across all sectors and levels of government,” Sungi said.
“But our transition must not only be about reducing emissions, it must also be about creating green jobs, building climate resilience, and unlocking inclusive, sustainable development. And that is where our micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) play a crucial role.” She said.
PNG Greenpreneurs Initiative is a program that is currently being rolled out across seven provinces. (Eastern Highlands, Enga, Manus, Milne Bay, Morobe, New Ireland, and Simbu).

“This initiative complements our broader national climate programs, including efforts under the Climate FIRST project, by translating policy into real impact for communities and businesses. I am especially pleased to see provincial partners engaged. Our provinces are key actors in enabling the green economy and ensuring that the benefits of climate action reach all Papua New Guineans,” Sungi said
“Today also marks the official opening of the Call for Applications for the PNG Greenpreneurs Incubator Program. I encourage all eligible entrepreneurs to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to grow climate-resilient businesses that align with our national priorities under the PNG SME Policy. This is a practical step forward in supporting inclusive green growth across our country,”
“This program reflects a strong partnership between government, development partners, and private sector, and I commend GGGI and DFAT for their continued leadership in advancing inclusive green growth across PNG and the region.”
“As we celebrate this launch, I urge all of us, government institutions, private sector, financial institutions, and development partners, to continue working together to support our local changemakers. Let us build an ecosystem where green MSMEs can thrive, where innovation is nurtured, and where every entrepreneur, no matter their background or geography, has the tools and support to create impact.
Let us grow not just our economy, but our resilience, our ecosystems, and our communities, together, through green entrepreneurship.”
“As we say in PNG, “Wanbel i strongim wok bung wantaim,” unity of purpose strengthens collective action.”
Deputy Country Representative for GGGI Mr. Miguel Angel Mendez Castellanos says Papua New Guinea is rich in culture, nature, and innovation but the real impacts of climate change and environmental degradation—particularly on our small businesses, rural communities are most vulnerable.
“At GGGI, we believe the future of PNG’s green transition lies with its entrepreneurs, those who are solving problems in their own communities, building resilient businesses, and creating jobs that also protect people and the planet.”
“The PNG Greenpreneurs Initiative through its Incubator and Accelerator Program is designed to support those who are changemakers. During the duration of this Initiative, we will support over 250 entrepreneurs through structured training, hands-on coaching, mentorship, and peer-to-peer learning. Entrepreneurs will also have the opportunity to participate in a business plan competition that will give them access to 10,000 kina seed funding to grow their businesses.”
“What makes this program unique is its strong alignment with the PNG Inclusive Green Taxonomy and PNG SME Policy ensuring that the businesses we support are not just profitable, but sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient across seven provinces. Whether it’s in clean energy, sustainable agriculture, eco-tourism, or circular economy solutions—green MSMEs have the potential to shift the trajectory of growth in PNG.”
The program is also part of a broader vision to build a national green enterprise ecosystem—one that is practical, inclusive, and built for scale. And that’s only possible through strong partnerships.
“We are proud to work alongside CCDA, DFAT, Emstret Space, Provincial Govts, Financial institutions and many of you who are here today to bring this vision to life.” Castellanos said.