25/01/2022
Timeline Photos
NEW LINK!! Join the Regional Business Plan Launch Event TOMORROW, Jan 25th at 10AM AST!
PLEASE USE THIS NEW LINK!!
Join Zoom Meeting
https://uwi.zoom.us/j/94801021041?pwd=d3p4dEgzYlBBY3Q1aFd6MkxCQnlBdz09
Small Business Development Centre - SBDC, Saint Lucia
- Home
- Saint Lucia
- Castries
- Small Business Development Centre - SBDC, Saint Lucia
SBDC Saint Lucia offers training and consultancy services to small business owners and entrepreneurs. SBDC - Growing Our Economy, One Business at a Time.
Operating as usual
25/01/2022
Timeline Photos
Join us for the Launch of the Regional Business Plan Competition!!
January 25th - Learn More: https://www.open.uwi.edu/compete-caribbean
Register: Join Zoom Meeting
https://uwi.zoom.us/j/94801021041?pwd=d3p4dEgzYlBBY3Q1aFd6MkxCQnlBdz09
13/01/2022
Saint Lucia Taiwan Partnership Tradeshow 2021 - Prize Winners
In light of the increasing COVID-19 infection rate, the Ministry of Commerce regrets to inform of the cancellation of the prize giving ceremony for the 14th Annual Saint Lucia Taiwan Partnership Tradeshow.
Instead, the Ministry invites winners to collect their prizes at the Ministry of Commerce’s office, 4th Floor Heraldine Rock Building, Waterfront, Castries from 10 am, Friday, 14 January 2021.
For more information on the collection of prizes, please contact Ms Cindy Eugene @ 468-4218 or 285-1166 or email [email protected].
10/01/2022
JENNES | Upskilling Academy for Youth and Women
PRESS RELEASE
BUSINESS FORUM - YOUTH EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE
Castries, January 8th, 2022; On Wednesday, January 5th, 2022, the Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs, in collaboration with the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC) and the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in Saint Lucia, hosted a Business Forum for women and young entrepreneurs. The purpose of this event was to apprise persons of the project aimed at boosting Saint Lucia’s economic recovery through vocational skills training. Approximately five hundred and eighty (580) individuals registered for this forum, of which three hundred and nineteen (319) participated.
The Minister responsible for Commerce, Honourable Emma Hippolyte, in her address to the participants informed them that this initiative will place a lot of emphasis on the growth and development of the youth and women to ensure that both groups contribute to and benefit from the economic recovery. Minister Hippolyte further encouraged both youth and women to make full use of this opportunity so that they could become self-reliant and independent.
The Ambassador His Excellency Peter Chen of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in his remarks solidified his government’s commitment to the youth and people of Saint Lucia. He indicated that the program entails technical assistance for youth and women’s employment, entrepreneurship and financial assistance, which is geared toward empowering the target beneficiaries.
The Honourable Dr. Virginia Poyote, Minister for Gender Affairs, congratulated her colleague Minister for this noble initiative especially at a time when women are at the forefront in society. In addition, their full and equal participation in all facets of society is integral. The Minister for Gender Affairs continued by stating that the pandemic affects mostly women and girls and implored participants to make great use of their skills and hobbies, so they can convert them into meaningful employment.
The team from Sir Arthur Lewis Community College stated that the programme would allow participants the opportunity to learn from a structured, certified adult learning programme, which includes entrepreneurial development training and an incubator programme to support start-up enterprises/MSMEs. There is also post training, start-up mentorship and counselling prospect. The programme will cover areas such as Hospitality, Health Aide, Digital and Creative Entrepreneurship, and Early Childhood Development.
After members of the panel presented, participants were invited to question the presenters. Based on the 2-hour discussion which ensued between the participants and the panellists, it was clear that the forum was well-received by the participants. The Ministry of Commerce now invites all interested persons to register for the programme at the following: SALCC’s website for the Upskilling Academy for Youth and Women: https://upskilling.salcc.edu.lc/
-End-
Upskilling Academy for Youth and Women Entrepreneurship and Financial Inclusion Programme
05/01/2022
Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: Business Forum - Youth and Women Entrepreneurship Project. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting.
Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: Business Forum - Youth and Women Entrepreneurship Project. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting.
Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: Business Forum - Youth and Women Entrepreneurship Project. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting.
04/01/2022
One Community One Product (OCOP)
One Community One Product (OCOP)
Ministry of Commerce in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is currently undertaking a pilot project called the One Village One Product (OVOP) in three communities in Saint Lucia. In an effort to provide more communities with an opp...
30/12/2021
Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: Business Forum - Youth Entrepreneurship Project. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting.
PRESS RELEASE
BUSINESS FORUM - YOUTH EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE
Castries, December 28th, 2021; The Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs, in collaboration with the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC) – Upskilling Academy, will be hosting a Business Forum on Wednesday, January 5th, 2022 at 9:30 am for Women and Young Entrepreneurs. This event is for persons interested in participating in the Incubator Programme for Start-up Entrepreneurs, the second phase of the recently launched Taiwanese-funded project, “Technical Assistance for Youth Employment, Entrepreneurship and Financial Inclusion”.
This phase, which is expected to begin on February 1st, 2022, offers an avenue for over 300 individuals - owners of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) - to receive training, valuable business coaching and financing for their businesses. The Forum will provide information about the project, including the eligibility criteria and support for the successful candidates, among other things.
To register in advance for the event, persons should use the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMsde2gqzIpH9etTK6yt-UL1qmUgPfFQR01
Upon registering, persons will receive the meeting link to attend the Business Forum.
The Ministry of Commerce encourages women and young business owners island wide to seize this opportunity to develop or hone their skills and qualify for financing to enhance their business’ performance. The initiative is designed to reduce unemployment and stimulate the economy, through the empowerment of our youth and women.
For more information, please contact Mrs. Barbara Innocent-Charles, the Director of the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) at 468-4218 / 468-4223.
-End-
Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: Business Forum - Youth Entrepreneurship Project. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting.
30/12/2021
Photos from Ministry of Commerce's post
16/12/2021
Photos from Saint Lucia Development Bank's post
30/11/2021
Several of Export Saint Lucia’s clients recently made a clean sweep at the Saint Lucia Manufacturers Association awards.
Congratulations to you all: Baron Foods Ltd, Abby’s Exotic Blends, Harris Paints, St. Lucia Distillers, Natmed, Caribbean Awnings, Top Stone Fabrication, St. Lucia Linen, Regodolls Spice, Ms St Rose Creole Delight
Export Saint Lucia continues to support your growth.
27/11/2021
26/11/2021
Join us today the 26th and tomorrow the 27th of November 2021 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at 14th Annual Saint Lucia Taiwan Partnership Tradeshow taking place at the Human Resource Centre in Gros Islet and
Virtually via : https://14thannual.saintluciataiwan.org/
Admission: FREE
All Covid-19 protocols are in full effect
25/11/2021
23/11/2021
23/11/2021
14th Annual Saint Lucia-Taiwan Partnership Trade Show
The Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) will proudly host the 14th Annual Saint Lucia-Taiwan Partnership Trade Show at Gros Islet Human Resource Development Centre, from November 26th to 27th, 2021 under the theme “Propelling Business Development through Technology”. This year the trade show will be like no other as it will take place not only at the physical location but also virtually via https://14thannual.saintluciataiwan.org/, thus allowing the wider international trading community and the diaspora to view quality and authentic goods and services of Saint Lucia and Taiwan.
As the Government continues to institute policies to help rebuild our economy and strengthen our private sector amid the impact of the pandemic, it is of importance that our businesses are given avenues to expose their goods and services to potential buyers and investors. To this end, the Ministry of Commerce wishes to invite Saint Lucians here and abroad, potential buyers and investors to attend the 14th Annual Saint Lucia-Taiwan Partnership Trade Show.
For further information on the Trade Show, please visit https://14thannual.saintluciataiwan.org/.
14th Annual Saint Lucia-Taiwan Partnership Trade Show
The Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) will proudly host the 14th Annual Saint Lucia-Taiwan Partnership Trade Show at Gros Islet Human Resource Development Centre, from November 26th to 27th, 2021 under the theme “Propelling Business Development through Technology”. This year the trade show will be like no other as it will take place not only at the physical location but also virtually via https://14thannual.saintluciataiwan.org/, thus allowing the wider international trading community and the diaspora to view quality and authentic goods and services of Saint Lucia and Taiwan.
As the Government continues to institute policies to help rebuild our economy and strengthen our private sector amid the impact of the pandemic, it is of importance that our businesses are given avenues to expose their goods and services to potential buyers and investors. To this end, the Ministry of Commerce wishes to invite Saint Lucians here and abroad, potential buyers and investors to attend the 14th Annual Saint Lucia-Taiwan Partnership Trade Show.
For further information on the Trade Show, please visit https://14thannual.saintluciataiwan.org/.
12/11/2021
Business Month 2021
Updated Calendar for the Month
For further information on this initiative, please contact Business Development Officers, Mrs. Ruthanne Carasco-Phillip at 468-4247/285-5356 or Mrs. Leander Calixte-Jn. Baptiste at 468-4222/285-3436.
Business Month 2021
Updated Calendar for the Month
For further information on this initiative, please contact Business Development Officers, Mrs. Ruthanne Carasco-Phillip at 468-4247/285-5356 or Mrs. Leander Calixte-Jn. Baptiste at 468-4222/285-3436.
09/11/2021
- OPPORTUNITY ALERT -
The Caribbean Export Development Agency will host a sensitisation training workshop on their Direct Support Grants Programme on Thursday, November 11th from 10 am to 12 pm.
If you are a business owner in need of grant support, this i sa perfect opportunity to find out what is available to you.
Click the link below to register. This is a virtual event.
https://www.carib-export.com/event/dsgp-nov11/
08/11/2021
Do you have goods for sale? Do you want to use e-commerce platforms to increase your profits?
Export Saint Lucia will host a workshop on Tuesday November 9th at 9 am to sensitize producers on whether you can be successful on eBay.
The registration link is:
https://intracen.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIkf-ivrzIiHtdRmIf8AtHQHJKiTVJ6heB3
02/11/2021
Business Month 2021 - Calendar of Activities
Theme: “Propelling Business Development through Technology”
For further information on this initiative, please contact Business Development Officers, Mrs. Ruthanne Carasco-Phillip at 468-4247/285-5356 or Mrs. Leander Calixte-Jn. Baptiste at 468-4222/285-3436.
Business Month 2021 - Calendar of Activities
Theme: “Propelling Business Development through Technology”
For further information on this initiative, please contact Business Development Officers, Mrs. Ruthanne Carasco-Phillip at 468-4247/285-5356 or Mrs. Leander Calixte-Jn. Baptiste at 468-4222/285-3436.
02/11/2021
14th Annual Saint Lucia - Taiwan Partnership Tradeshow
The Ministry of Commerce will be hosting Saint Lucia - Taiwan Partnership Tradeshow on the 26th - 27th November 2021. As part of the activities for this tradeshow, the Ministry will be arranging Business-2-Business sessions with persons interested in becoming a local agent for a Taiwanese business.
Persons interested in participating in this session are asked to contact Mr Cletus Cyril @ 285-5095 or email [email protected] for more information.
14th Annual Saint Lucia - Taiwan Partnership Tradeshow
The Ministry of Commerce will be hosting Saint Lucia - Taiwan Partnership Tradeshow on the 26th - 27th November 2021. As part of the activities for this tradeshow, the Ministry will be arranging Business-2-Business sessions with persons interested in becoming a local agent for a Taiwanese business.
Persons interested in participating in this session are asked to contact Mr Cletus Cyril @ 285-5095 or email [email protected] for more information.
27/10/2021
Timeline Photos
Join the Direct Support Grants Programme Sensitisation Workshop on November 4, 2021 and have all your questions answered before submitting your grant application. Countries in the OECS are invited to register today: 👉 https://bit.ly/3BjpKNv
#GrantFunding #DSGP
21/10/2021
Join us as we collaborate with the ITC to present to you a workshop geared towards utilising eBay as a form of e-commerce.
Link for workshop
https://intracen.zoom.us/j/92230636350
Meeting ID: 922 3063 6350
Government of Saint Lucia Emma Hippolyte Consulate General of Saint Lucia in New York Consulate General of Saint Lucia in Miami Consulate General of Saint Lucia in Toronto
19/10/2021
Invitation to participate in the “14th Annual Saint Lucia – Taiwan Partnership Trade Show
The Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) will proudly host the 14th Annual Saint Lucia -Taiwan Partnership Trade Show both virtually and at the Gros Islet Human Resource Centre from November 26th to 27th, 2021 under the theme “Propelling Business Development through Technology”.
The purpose of the trade show is to provide an avenue for Saint Lucian and Taiwanese Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase a wide range of goods and distinctive services and also to foster collaboration and partnerships among businesses. The trade show will also allow the general public and business community the opportunity to experience the best of Saint Lucia and the Republic of China (Taiwan).
This year the trade show will focus in part on the ICT sector and ICT related businesses and as such will be partially delivered using virtual technology.
In keeping with the theme “Propelling Business Development through Technology” the Ministry is inviting applications / Expression of Interest from emerging and existing MSMEs that are part of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Sector or simply businesses that have used some form of innovative technology to revolutionise their business operations to showcase their products and services to the global village.
Details of the Trade Show are as follows:
Date: November 26th and 27th, 2021
Venue 1: Gros Islet Human Resource Centre Gros Islet
Venue 2: Delivered Virtually
Interested persons are asked to submit their Expression of Interest no later than October 25th 2021.
Link for registration: https://forms.gle/TegrRLzQjcRK4yWv7
For further information, please contact Ms. Cindy Eugene at telephone #468-4216 / 285 1166 or email [email protected].
Invitation to participate in the “14th Annual Saint Lucia – Taiwan Partnership Trade Show
The Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) will proudly host the 14th Annual Saint Lucia -Taiwan Partnership Trade Show both virtually and at the Gros Islet Human Resource Centre from November 26th to 27th, 2021 under the theme “Propelling Business Development through Technology”.
The purpose of the trade show is to provide an avenue for Saint Lucian and Taiwanese Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase a wide range of goods and distinctive services and also to foster collaboration and partnerships among businesses. The trade show will also allow the general public and business community the opportunity to experience the best of Saint Lucia and the Republic of China (Taiwan).
This year the trade show will focus in part on the ICT sector and ICT related businesses and as such will be partially delivered using virtual technology.
In keeping with the theme “Propelling Business Development through Technology” the Ministry is inviting applications / Expression of Interest from emerging and existing MSMEs that are part of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Sector or simply businesses that have used some form of innovative technology to revolutionise their business operations to showcase their products and services to the global village.
Details of the Trade Show are as follows:
Date: November 26th and 27th, 2021
Venue 1: Gros Islet Human Resource Centre Gros Islet
Venue 2: Delivered Virtually
Interested persons are asked to submit their Expression of Interest no later than October 25th 2021.
Link for registration: https://forms.gle/TegrRLzQjcRK4yWv7
For further information, please contact Ms. Cindy Eugene at telephone #468-4216 / 285 1166 or email [email protected].
Address
4th Floor, Heraldine Rock Building, Catries Waterfront
Castries
General information
Participants are expected to apply the knowledge obtained during these training courses to increase their competence and the viability of their respective businesses. The Small Enterprise Development Unit (SEDU) will continue to provide relevant training to micro and small scale enterprise owners in its Entrepreneurial Development Programme as it pursues the strategy of the Micro and Small Enterprise Development of the National Industrial Policy and the mandate stipulated in the Micro and Scale Enterprise Act of 1998. Registration closes on September 5th, 2012. Registration forms can be obtained on the Ministry of Commerce’s website, www.commerce.gov.lc or at the Small Enterprise Development Unit (SEDU) within the Ministry of Commerce, on the 4th Floor of the Heraldine Rock Building, Waterfront, Castries. All interested persons should register early. For further information, feel free to contact the Ministry of Commerce, SEDU’s office at telephone 468-4223, 468-4220, 468-4218 or 468-4204, or email [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected] Visit our website at http://www.commerce.gov.lc/departments/view/1 for forms and more information.
Opening Hours
| Monday | 08:00 - 16:30 |
| Tuesday | 08:00 - 16:30 |
| Wednesday | 08:00 - 16:30 |
| Thursday | 08:00 - 16:30 |
| Friday | 08:00 - 16:30 |
Telephone
http://commerce.gov.lc/departments/view/1
Products
SEDU has scheduled its Entrepreneurial Development Programme, to commence from September to December 2012. Courses are offered from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on weekdays.
The objectives of the Entrepreneurial Development Programme include the promotion of an entrepreneurial culture and the development of the best practices among micro and small scale business owners in Saint Lucia. Our management courses aim to increase business efficiency and competitiveness, with supporting services designed to assist with the implementation of the Saint Lucia National Industrial Policy. This is achieved by developing organizations through continuous improvement in productivity, and by providing technical support for the adoption of effective operational programmes.
The courses offered for the upcoming cycle include the following:
• Peachtree Accounting
• Small Business Management
• Introduction to Quality Management
• Basic Project Management for Small Contractors
Alerts
Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Small Business Development Centre - SBDC, Saint Lucia posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Contact The Business
Send a message to Small Business Development Centre - SBDC, Saint Lucia:
Videos
Where ladies Talk - Women Entrepreneurship Series continues this Thursday, 14th November 2019. This week’s presenter Jerry Gorge, Media Guru will be speaking on the “getting the media on your side” For more Information contact # 715-6674 See scene from last week’s session.
Get In The Ring 2019
Get in the Ring 2019 Get In the Ring Saint Lucia 2019 The St. Lucia Chamber of Commerce, The St. Lucia Youth Business Trust & Junior Achievement St. Lucia invites you to be part of Get in the Ring St. Lucia 2019. Get in the Ring gives startups a global podium to make valuable connections to start, grow and scale up their business. Get in the Ring is known for its innovative format where startups face off in a boxing ring. The winner of Get in the Ring St. Lucia will win a ticket to the Global Final in May 2019. This event promises to be exciting and engaging for all present. Apply Here! https://getinthering.gribb.io/e…/get-in-the-ring-saint-lucia
3rd Annual Ministry of Commerce Valentine's Day Showcase
3rd Annual Ministry of Commerce Valentine's Day Showcase
CUBE HRMS - Business Awards Nominee
CUBE HRMS - Business Awards Nominee Congratulations to HRM solutions on their nomination for a business awards 2018. As a member of the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC), CUBE HRMS is offering a discount to all businesses who sign up for the CUBE solution using the referral code: SBDC2018. Offer is valid for February 2018. Remember the Refer Code: SBDC2018
Saint Lucia Taiwan Partnership Trade Show
Come discover amazing products and services from Saint Lucia & Taiwan on Friday 25th - Sunday 27th November 2016 at the 9th Annual Saint Lucia - Taiwan Partnership Trade Show. From 9am - 7pm daily at The Johnsons Centre, Rodney Bay
Creative New Products on show and important alliances to be formed. Don't miss out - #SaintLucia #Taiwan #Trade Exhibition 2015.
Need Help Growing Your Business. Check out our new website for tools and resources, right at your fingertips.
All the help you need is now just one click away! SBDC Saint Lucia "Growing our economy one business at a time"
As entrepreneurs, you always seem to have more work to do than hours in the day to accomplish it. But with proper time management, you can significantly improve your productivity. Here are 6 Time Management Tips to Increase Productivity. Compliments: Brian Tracy
Creativity and Entrepreneurship - Award-winning invention: A bath without water Compliments:TED Talks
Is your Business Insured?????? Many Small Business persons underestimate the importance of having the right type of insurance coverage for their business until it is too late. It always seems to be too costly but the cost of losing your property, stock and equipment often outweighs the monthly cost of insurance. Here are some Business Insurance Tips:
Idea Evaluation - Always test your idea before launching your business!!!! Because NOT "Every problem is an opportunity and every opportunity is a gift"
The business structure you choose will have legal and tax implications. Learn about the different types of business structures and find the one best suited for your business. Video Compliments: HMRCgovuk
Are you ready for Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts 2015? Tell us who do you want to see this year?
Frances Rub, The Legend Grows. If you haven't heard about this up and coming Saint Lucian product , then you need to get a clue. #FrancesRub
Music Rendition at SBDC Launch 2014
Client Close-Ups SEDU works with a wide array of talented entrepreneurs in various fields and industries. Today we feature Mr. Chris Dahoma, founder of Phone Bay Inc. Here is his story and please, come tell us yours. Video courtesy Choice TV.
Shortcuts
Nearby government services
-
Castries Waterfront
-
Bureau of Health Education (MOH SLU)
First Floor, Sir Stanislaus James Building -
Citizenship by Investment Programme
P.O.Box CP 6010, 5th Floor, Francis Compton Building, Waterfront -
St Lucia Social Development Fund
Unit 10 Colony House, John Compton Highway -
National Association of Libraries and Informa
Corner of Micoud Street -
1st Floor, UNITY HOUSE #7 Maurice Mason Avenue Sans Souci
-
Public Sector Modernization Department of the Public Service, Bourbon Street
-
St. Lucia Fire Service Fire Prevention Depart
St Lucia Fire Service Headquarters -
The Division of Gender Relations
Ground Floor, Georgian Court Building, John Compton Highway -
Ambassade de France à Sainte-Lucie / French E
Nelson Mandela Drive, Vigie -
PO Box RB 2607, Rodney Bay, Gros
-
Entrepot
-
St. Lucia Chamber of Commerce Industry & Agri
Vide Boutielle highway
Other Castries government services
-
L'anse Rd -
riverside road choiseul
-
Public Sector Modernization Department of the Public Service, Bourbon Street
-
Royal Saint Lucia Police Force Special Reserv
P.O. Box 109, Police Headquarters, Bridge Street -
St. Lucia Fire Service Fire Prevention Depart
St Lucia Fire Service Headquarters -
Saint Lucia Electoral Department
High Street -
Human Resource Development Unit - Department
4th Floor, Francis Compton Building -
Bridge Street
-
Saint Lucia Fire Service Association
Manoel Street -
Babonneau
Comments
PRESS RELEASE
BUSINESS FORUM - YOUTH EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE
Castries, January 8th, 2022; On Wednesday, January 5th, 2022, the Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs, in collaboration with the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC) and the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in Saint Lucia, hosted a Business Forum for women and young entrepreneurs. The purpose of this event was to apprise persons of the project aimed at boosting Saint Lucia’s economic recovery through vocational skills training. Approximately five hundred and eighty (580) individuals registered for this forum, of which three hundred and nineteen (319) participated.
The Minister responsible for Commerce, Honourable Emma Hippolyte, in her address to the participants informed them that this initiative will place a lot of emphasis on the growth and development of the youth and women to ensure that both groups contribute to and benefit from the economic recovery. Minister Hippolyte further encouraged both youth and women to make full use of this opportunity so that they could become self-reliant and independent.
The Ambassador His Excellency Peter Chen of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in his remarks solidified his government’s commitment to the youth and people of Saint Lucia. He indicated that the program entails technical assistance for youth and women’s employment, entrepreneurship and financial assistance, which is geared toward empowering the target beneficiaries.
The Honourable Dr. Virginia Poyote, Minister for Gender Affairs, congratulated her colleague Minister for this noble initiative especially at a time when women are at the forefront in society. In addition, their full and equal participation in all facets of society is integral. The Minister for Gender Affairs continued by stating that the pandemic affects mostly women and girls and implored participants to make great use of their skills and hobbies, so they can convert them into meaningful employment.
The team from Sir Arthur Lewis Community College stated that the programme would allow participants the opportunity to learn from a structured, certified adult learning programme, which includes entrepreneurial development training and an incubator programme to support start-up enterprises/MSMEs. There is also post training, start-up mentorship and counselling prospect. The programme will cover areas such as Hospitality, Health Aide, Digital and Creative Entrepreneurship, and Early Childhood Development.
After members of the panel presented, participants were invited to question the presenters. Based on the 2-hour discussion which ensued between the participants and the panellists, it was clear that the forum was well-received by the participants. The Ministry of Commerce now invites all interested persons to register for the programme at the following: SALCC’s website for the Upskilling Academy for Youth and Women: https://upskilling.salcc.edu.lc/
-End-
PRESS RELEASE
BUSINESS FORUM - YOUTH EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE
Castries, December 28th, 2021; The Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs, in collaboration with the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC) – Upskilling Academy, will be hosting a Business Forum on Wednesday, January 5th, 2022 at 9:30 am for Women and Young Entrepreneurs. This event is for persons interested in participating in the Incubator Programme for Start-up Entrepreneurs, the second phase of the recently launched Taiwanese-funded project, “Technical Assistance for Youth Employment, Entrepreneurship and Financial Inclusion”.
This phase, which is expected to begin on February 1st, 2022, offers an avenue for over 300 individuals - owners of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) - to receive training, valuable business coaching and financing for their businesses. The Forum will provide information about the project, including the eligibility criteria and support for the successful candidates, among other things.
To register in advance for the event, persons should use the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMsde2gqzIpH9etTK6yt-UL1qmUgPfFQR01
Upon registering, persons will receive the meeting link to attend the Business Forum.
The Ministry of Commerce encourages women and young business owners island wide to seize this opportunity to develop or hone their skills and qualify for financing to enhance their business’ performance. The initiative is designed to reduce unemployment and stimulate the economy, through the empowerment of our youth and women.
For more information, please contact Mrs. Barbara Innocent-Charles, the Director of the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) at 468-4218 / 468-4223.
-End-
Join us today the 26th and tomorrow the 27th of November 2021 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at 14th Annual Saint Lucia Taiwan Partnership Tradeshow taking place at the Human Resource Centre in Gros Islet and
Virtually via : https://14thannual.saintluciataiwan.org/
Admission: FREE
All Covid-19 protocols are in full effect