St. Maarten’s entrepreneurs are being placed at the center of the country’s economic development push.
At a recent SEDC press conference, the Ministry of TEATT highlighted ongoing efforts to support micro, small, and medium-sized businesses through training, mentorship, and practical business development.
The Minister said SEDC is not just about workshops. It is about people — the young entrepreneur turning an idea into income, the single mother formalizing a side business, the creative monetizing talent, and the small business owner trying to survive rising costs while still finding ways to grow.
Through partnerships with SEDC, TWO, RVO, the Department of ETT, and the Ministry of TEATT, several programs have already been launched under the Advanced Education Program. Over the first six months, more than 73 participants took part in training focused on financial literacy, energy efficiency, digital project management, business English, sustainable business practices, and small business acceleration.
The Minister also pointed to upcoming programs in artificial intelligence business models, social media marketing, online presence, creative grant writing, green enterprise development, fisheries, and poultry development.
Her message to the public was direct: sign up, take advantage of the opportunities, and invest in yourself.
Here is part of the Minister’s address from the SEDC press conference.