Fake National Grant Scheme: Ministry of SMEs Warns Public of Circulating Scam

The Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) has issued an urgent public warning about a fraudulent scheme circulating in Mauritius, in which scammers are falsely claiming to offer a national government subsidy to small business owners and entrepreneurs. The ministry confirmed that a fake grant or subsidy programme is being promoted under the guise of an official government initiative, potentially targeting vulnerable SME operators who may be seeking financial relief or business support. Authorities have made clear that no such national subsidy scheme currently exists under the ministry's programmes, and that any communications purporting to represent one should be treated with extreme caution. While full details of the scam's mechanics have not been disclosed, such fraudulent schemes typically operate by soliciting personal information, banking details, or upfront processing fees from unsuspecting victims — all under the false promise of receiving government funding. This warning comes at a time when Mauritius's SME sector continues to recover and adapt following the economic pressures of recent years. Small businesses remain a vital pillar of the Mauritian economy, employing a significant portion of the workforce and contributing meaningfully to GDP. It is precisely this vulnerability and desire for growth that makes SME owners prime targets for financial fraud. The ministry is calling on all entrepreneurs, business owners, and members of the public to verify the authenticity of any grant or subsidy offer directly through official government channels before providing any personal or financial information. Official announcements regarding SME support programmes are published through the ministry's verified platforms and the Government of Mauritius's official website. Anyone who believes they may have been targeted by this scam is encouraged to report it to the relevant authorities, including the Mauritius Police Force's cybercrime unit, without delay. This incident serves as a broader reminder of the growing sophistication of financial scams in Mauritius, many of which increasingly exploit digital platforms and impersonate government institutions to lend themselves an air of legitimacy. Public awareness and due diligence remain the most effective defences against such schemes. The Ministry of SMEs has urged the media and community organisations to help amplify this warning to reach as many people as possible, particularly those in rural communities or with limited digital literacy who may be most at risk.