17 February 2025, Nauru – Edward Grundler, a graduate of the micro-qualification training on Establishing and Operating a Small Seafood Business delivered by the USP component of the Pacific-European Marine Partnership (PEUMP) programme funded by the European Union and Sweden, is a driven individual with a passion for both community service and entrepreneurship. Currently serving as a student welfare officer at Nauru College, Edward also owns and operates a small pizza and bread business. His leadership extends beyond his career and business ventures as he is the head of the Meneng Community in Nauru, where he plays a vital role in supporting local development.
Edward recently completed a one-week training focused on building and growing small seafood businesses, and he has found the experience to be nothing short of transformative. One of the key takeaways from the training was learning how to develop and implement a solid business plan—a concept Edward admits he had never fully grasped before. “I have never learnt about this, its importance, and how to create one until this training. It has been eye-opening,” he shares.
The training, aimed at equipping individuals with the skills to enter the seafood industry, provided Edward with invaluable insights that he plans to apply in his own business. The focus on developing a business plan resonated with him deeply, as he recognized how such a plan could guide his strategic decisions and future success. But beyond personal growth, Edward is enthusiastic about how he can share this newfound knowledge with others, especially fellow small business owners in Nauru.
“The training was a great opportunity, and I feel fortunate to have been a part of it,” Edward explains. As a member of the Nauru business community, he understands the potential for growth within the local seafood industry, given the island nation’s abundant fish resources. He is particularly excited about diversifying into the seafood business and exploring the possibilities that Nauru’s natural resources offer.
Edward’s vision goes beyond his personal ambitions. He is eager to help other small business owners in his community, particularly those in the seafood industry, by passing on the knowledge he has gained. One aspect that stands out to him is the importance of value-adding to seafood products. By focusing on ways to enhance products—whether through packaging, processing, or marketing—Edward believes that local seafood businesses can increase their profitability and sustainability.
Looking ahead, Edward is committed to contributing to the growth and success of the Nauru business community. Through his work, leadership, and willingness to share his expertise, he aims to foster a more vibrant and diversified local economy.
In summary, Edward Grundler is not only a dedicated student and business owner but also an advocate for the potential of Nauru’s seafood industry. With his newfound skills from the Micro-Qualification Training on Establishing and Operating a Small Seafood Business, he is poised to make a meaningful impact on the local economy and inspire other small business owners to succeed.
USP is one of four key implementing partners of the EUR 45million PEUMP Program, which aims to promote sustainable management and sound ocean governance for food security and economic growth while addressing climate change resilience and conservation of marine biodiversity.
It follows a comprehensive approach, integrating issues related to ocean fisheries, coastal fisheries, community development, marine conservation and capacity building under one single regional action. The PEUMP project is funded by the European Union and the Government of Sweden; and housed within the Institute of Marine Resources within the School of Agriculture, Geography, Environment, Ocean and Natural Sciences (SAGEONS) of USP.
Media Contact
Lore Croker, USP PEUMP Communications, lore.croker@usp.ac.fj
