The Ministry of Energy and Business Development will host a Business Fair and Expo on Friday, March 25, on the grounds of the Warrens Office Complex, Warrens, St. Michael.
It will be held under the theme Building A Stronger Business Community. The fair and expo, which runs from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., will be under the patronage of the Minister of Energy and Business Development, Kerrie Symmonds.
The various departments and agencies under the Ministry’s portfolio will be showcased. Members of the public will therefore be able to interact with Ministry officials as they share information on starting a business, business development, financial literacy training, standards development, consumer/supplier rights and obligations, accessing financing and dealing with debt.
Several small businesses that received business development support from the Ministry’s agencies will also be displaying their innovative products and services.
Persons visiting the fair and expo will also have the opportunity to see what’s available on the market in solar and renewable energy products and electric vehicles, and learn about the economic and environmental benefits of renewable energy.
The Barbados National Oil Company Limited and other private sector players in the energy field will be showcasing their product offerings.
Supervisor of Insolvency, Ester Springer, who is co-ordinating the fair and expo, stated that the aim of the event was manifold.
She said it is aimed at building the public’s awareness of the role and functions of the Ministry and its strategic partners, who are charged with the responsibility of creating a balanced and enabling business environment.
Mrs. Springer noted that “as part of a whole of Government approach” representatives from key agencies, such as the National Insurance Department, the Barbados Revenue Authority, the Customs Department and the Labour Department, which provide important support services to the micro, small and medium enterprise and wider business sector, would also be in attendance.
“In addition, as Government works towards its 2030 renewable energy goal, the Ministry wishes to underscore the importance of renewable energy in building a more resilient Barbados. We want Barbadians to be aware of what is available as they seek to take advantage of the product offerings in that sector. We, therefore, urge the public to come out and be a part of this exciting one-stop experience,” she said.
This initiative is being supported by a number of private sector entities, including several commercial banks and credit unions, which will be present on the day to provide information on the financial products and services available to businesses and consumers.
During the day, there will be music by a popular DJ, and a special guest appearance by RPB. There will also be prizes and giveaways. Business owners, potential entrepreneurs, persons looking for investment opportunities, students and members of the public are encouraged to attend.