The Tribune

The Minister of Financial Services yesterday urged small and medium-sized exporters to attend today’s grant writing workshop, neing staged by the Caribbean Export Development Agency (CEDA) in collaboration with the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC).

“I encourage all those interested in developing their small and medium businesses to an ‘export-ready’ level to participate,” Mr Pinder said.

“The time is now for us to take advantage of all the opportunities that become available to promote Bahamian entrepreneurship and sustainable economic development throughout our country.”

Mr Pinder said CEDA is the international organisation with a mandate to promote export development and innovation regionally and globally.

“CEDA’s initiatives are geared toward development of brands that are able to compete on a global scale,” he added.

Mr Pinder said that last week CEDA launched its Direct Assistance Grant Scheme (DAGS) throughout the Caribbean region.

“The Direct Assistance Grant Scheme is a reimbursement grant funding facility, designed to offer financial assistance to legally registered businesses through the Caribbean with the potential to meet export demands,” Mr Pinder said.

Grants can be awarded up to 30,000 EUROS, which equals approximately $40,000, he pointed out.

Mr Pinder stated his Ministry, with portfolio responsibility for industry development and promotion, remains cognisant of the need to explore new economic opportunities for Bahamians.

“My ministry remains committed to the Bahamian people and the protection of industries throughout the Commonwealth of the Bahamas,” he said.

“As the Ministry of Financial Services continues to develop the project folder for Creative Industries in the Bahamas, the Direct Assistance Grant Scheme is one mechanism for assisting artisans in developing their products and creating brands that have the potential to compete regionally and globally.”

Caption

Minister of Financial Services Ryan Pinder (centre) speaks at a press conference announcing a Grant Writing Workshop, to be held today at the British Colonial Hilton. Also pictured are Edison L. Sumner, chief executive of thee Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation, and financial and trade officer at the Ministry, Felecia Woods. (BIS Photo / Eric Rose)