???We have a vision and a commitment to make Barbados the number one entrepreneurship island by the year 2020.???

This declaration came from Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth, Stephen Lashley, as he gave the opening remarks at the Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme???s (YES) 20th Anniversary and Awards Ceremony, at the Sweetfield Manor, Britton???s Hill, St. Michael, last Saturday.

According the Minister, ???the government of Barbados will continue to promote entrepreneurship as a very central pillar for the social and economic development of Barbados.???

While congratulating the management and staff of YES for their continued hard work and dedication, Mr. Lashley revealed that Barbados is currently poised to move forward based on the efforts of entrepreneurs.

He said his Ministry would, ???provide adequate support mechanisms that will engage research and development, both at the macro and micro levels, to stimulate growth and the sustainability of entrepreneurship activity in Barbados.???

In acknowledging the instrumental role played by YES??? in developing a suite of services and infrastructure for enterprise creation, Minister Lashley commended the programme and its management for their stellar contribution to the Barbados economy and business sector.

According to the Minister, during the period of April 2003 to March 2015 the Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme gained over 2,000 new clients; trained over 1,200 young people and assisted in the formation of 106 new businesses.

The Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme was formed in an effort to provide young innovative individuals with the necessary tools and support to transform their ideas into enterprises.

jamal.weekes@barbados.gov.bb

Pin It on Pinterest