The Small Business Development Centre (SBDC), in collaboration with UNESCO, The Bahamas Baptist Union of Churches, and the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Culture, has announced the launch of its Creative Entrepreneurs Initiative.
The program is designed to educate, empower, and fund both existing and aspiring Bahamian entrepreneurs. Open to entrepreneurs across New Providence and the Family Islands, this initiative promotes creating uniquely Bahamian products using natural elements found in the Bahamas. Its focus is on enhancing the tourism industry through products embodying Bahamian culture’s essence.
The initiative includes “Crafting the Bahamas Workshops,” which offer hands-on, creative sessions where participants collaborate with experts to create items such as body soaps, necklaces, headbands, and picture frames. These workshops highlight and utilize natural Bahamian materials, fostering a deeper connection to the local environment and culture.
Additionally, the Business Blueprint Training Course (August 5 – 25) is crucial to the initiative, equipping participants with essential business skills. Topics covered include business incorporation, intellectual property protection, online store setup, financial accounting software, and securing funding through grants, loans, or equity. This training ensures that creative entrepreneurs can effectively protect and grow their businesses.
To further support entrepreneurial efforts, the SBDC will offer a standalone grant to participants who complete the Business Blueprint Training Course and meet other eligibility criteria. This grant aims to provide crucial financial assistance to help launch or expand their businesses, ensuring sustainability and growth.
“The Creative Entrepreneurs Initiative underscores our commitment to nurturing the unique talents and resources of The Bahamas. By focusing on products that are inherently Bahamian, we not only preserve our cultural heritage but also create opportunities for entrepreneurs to thrive in the tourism market,” said SBDC Executive Director Samantha L. Rolle. “Tourists are constantly seeking authentic experiences, and what better way to offer that than through products crafted with Bahamian elements and creativity.”
The Creative Entrepreneurs Initiative is poised to significantly impact the local economy by equipping Bahamian entrepreneurs with the skills, resources, and support necessary for success. This initiative celebrates the rich cultural heritage of The Bahamas and positions it as a key player in the global market through unique, handcrafted products.
