ABSIP LAUNCHES VIRTUAL VENDOR TRAINING

The Antigua and Barbuda Science Innovation Park (ABSIP) in collaboration with Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) launched a virtual vendors training session on 29th March 2021 to assist small business owners and street vendors in business development in an effort to promote sustainable entrepreneurship in Antigua and Barbuda.

The weekly sessions will be held from 29th March 2021 – 23rd April 2021 commenced with the opening remarks by Hon. E.P Chet Greene – Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Trade, expressed his excitement to the participants and encouragement that during the Covid-19 season that they are taking part in this most important training in self-development. Hon. E.P. Chet Greene addressed the group and urged them to “share information, share knowledge and grow the sector together” as the basis for entrepreneurial development transcends into other areas for food security which would strengthen economic development.

The sessions have been organized by Mr. Neil Butler, Dr. Janelle O’Mard and Ms. Maryse Chambers of ABSIP with Marcella Andre of NIA COMMS. The training sessions are geared towards increasing knowledge amongst business owners and assist them to develop their products foster innovation and improve operational efficiency. Participants will receive training in health and safety, marketing and branding, and customer service.

The training sessions will support the efforts of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda to assist small business owners to mitigate the effects of the impacts of COVID-19 pandemic and promote economic diversification.