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 The Hon. Lindsay Grant, Minister of International Trade, Industry, Commerce & Consumer Affairs addresses the congregants At the Zion Moravian Small Business Sunday Service on April 23^rd, 2017.

 

The Zion Moravian Church held its first Small Business Sunday Service under the theme “God Gives Us the Power to Create Wealth” on April 23^rd, 2017. The aim of the program was to empower individuals to advance the Kingdom of God by improving their lives and the welfare of the Federation. The Honourable Minister was called upon to address the congregants on the Government’s position on small business and to provide an encouraging word.

 

The Honourable Minister stated: “It is an honour and a great pleasure for me to speak at today’s presentation as I firmly believe that small businesses play a critical role in a thriving economy. They are an integral part in the renewal process that pervades and defines a market economy as they play a crucial role in innovation that supports technological change and productivity growth.

Also small businesses are an essential conduit whereby millions of people enter the economic and social mainstream of a society, and are particularly adept at creating opportunities for women and minority groups. The Government’s vision for diversification hinges on supporting persons in developing locally-based businesses. Entrepreneurs are the heart and soul of the St Kitts and Nevis economy now and in the future.”

 

He further went on to explain the services of the National Entrepreneurial Development Division (NEDD), which is the lead executive support agency for domestic investment and small enterprises. These services include assisting with business plans, applications for duty free concessions, training in various business management principles and networking opportunities to market the products and services of their businesses.

 

Minister Grant also highlighted the Division’s new initiative in collaboration with the Organization of American States (OAS) through the Department of Economic Development in the USA, to establish a Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis. This initiative is to strengthen the services offered by NEDD and build, nationally, the capacity of micro small and medium support programs.

 

The congregation was encouraged to utilize the services of NEDD, which are at no cost, to develop their ideas, products and services.