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The Executive Secretariat for Integral Development (SEDI) of the Organization of American States (OAS) through the Department of Economic Development (DED) has launched phase two of the project “Establishment of Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) in CARICOM Member States”. The Ministry of International Trade, Industry, Commerce and Consumer Affairs, specifically the Department of the National Entrepreneurial Development Division (NEDD) has been undertaking this project that sees to benefit Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Federation.

Various stakeholders, both within the public and private sector, were engaged in a three day training session held on March 20^th -22^nd, 2017 at the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (CIC).  The exercise was facilitated by OAS representative and Programme Coordinator, Ms. Renee Penco with Ms. Barbara Mooney, Senior Project Manager, and Mr. Cliff Paredes, Director, International Trade Center at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA).

 

Through this activity, SBDC Business Advisors focused on the enhancement of economic development through the strengthening of MSME support networks by providing small businesses with critical management and technical assistance, long term professional business advice, low cost training and other specialised services. They were exposed to processes that would provide efficient business ‘on-one-on’ consultation, technical assistance, long term assistance and other services to current and aspiring entrepreneurs in the Federation.  

Mr. Philip Browne, Director of Industry, Commerce and NEDD noted that the initiatives are not only timely but in line with the Government’s mandate to focus on the development of this sector.

It is critical for the continued growth in this sector for the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis to stay abreast of proven projects that can be implemented, and foster our relationship with organisations such as the OAS.