In my day to day dealings, I come across Entrepreneurs and Aspiring Entrepreneurs from the Caribbean all seeking information and resources for their businesses. This has prompted me to put together a list of some of the resources and programmes that I believe Caribbean Entrepreneurs and aspiring Entrepreneurs can fully benefit from. The top four (4) resources are as follows:
1- SME ToolKit Caribbean– the SME toolkit is one of my favourite resources. Here Entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs will find information on starting and running a business. This is one of those resources that Caribbean Entrepreneurs should constantly have access to when managing different aspect of their business. There you will find, How to Articles, Business Forms, Tools and Resources and many more. The best thing someone can do right now is check out this amazing resource at The Website Here
2- Caribbean Innovation Challenge– the Caribbean Innovation Challenge (CIC) is a regional competition and business start-up accelerator for young entrepreneurs in the CARICOM and OECS Member and Associate states. The CIC is a Programme organized by the Young Americas Business Trust (YABT), in collaboration with National and Regional Partners in the Americas. The CIC identifies and awards innovative ventures led by young people, which respond to the most urgent economic and social issues in their communities, the programme supports projects becoming sustainable businesses. Citizens between 18 and 34 years old (by 11:59 PM, May 31, 2015) of CARICOM and OECS Member States are eligible to participate. Participants can register under any of the following categories: • Social Innovation • Economic Innovation • Environmental Innovation Aspiring and existing Caribbean Entrepreneurs who fit into the criterions should make use of this opportunity. More information can be found here On this Link
3- Branson Centre for Entrepreneurship (Caribbean) – The Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship – Caribbean was opened in Montego Bay Jamaica by Sir Richard Branson In September 2011. The Centre is a hub for aspiring entrepreneurs. Their mission is to offer practical business skills, access to coaches to offer guidance, mentors to share their experiences, professional services to build strong businesses, exposure to networks, finance and investment opportunities. Though located in Jamaica, the Branson Centre is for all aspiring Caribbean Entrepreneurs and it’s a programme that entrepreneurs can benefit greatly from.
4- Caribbean Small Business Academy– This is a resource; started by a Caribbean Entrepreneur (Sandra Baptiste) is one that Caribbean Entrepreneurs and Aspiring Entrepreneurs should definitely take a look into this. Their mission is to support Caribbean Entrepreneurs and small business owners to grow their businesses to live the life they desire. Within the Academy, you’ll find audio and video training, resources, templates, expert interviews and much more to help you grow your business. While it is a paid membership site and business, there are a number of free resources that Entrepreneurs can use including a three part business series and a copy of the book, Unlock the Code. More information can be found Here
Related Content: Business Start-Up Information
These resources and Programmes are not all that there is, however they are a great place to start as an entrepreneur or if you are thinking about taking the plunge into entrepreneurship. If you know of any more resources that can benefit Caribbean Entrepreneurs, please mention them in the comments below