NIPI, EU host workshop for the Creative Industry for SVG

The National Investment Promotion Inc. (NIPI), in collaboration with the European Union (EU), hosted a Workshop for the Creative Sector, with a special emphasis on the Fashion Industry for St.Vincent and the Grenadines.{{more}}

The workshop, which was held on April 30 at the Service Commissions Department Conference Room, was held to discuss the challenges that are being faced in the industry and to also ensure that proper procedures are followed and maintained to meet International Standards. This workshop was as a result of our participation in the recently concluded Caribbean Fashion Awards, to make certain that we are better prepared to compete in the International Market.

Some of the Challenges that were identified were: Accessing Start-up and Expansion financing; Access to investors; Access to funding specifically for Industrial Machinery, Equipment and Stock; Access to financial support to attend Trade Shows, Fashion Shows and Seminars; Duties and Taxes on raw materials; Access to funding for education or technical assistance for existing businesses; Access to trained personnel or trainable people; Need for Mentoring at all levels (pre-study, start-up, expansion); Sourcing of and Access to Raw Materials; Resources to produce professional portfolios are limited.

The Workshop aided the various groups in the Fashion industry (Designers, Model Agencies, Make-up artiste etc.) in formulating specific strategies as we move forward in the developing and promoting the Creative Sector in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The NIPI considers this development initiative very important to allow St.Vincent and the Grenadines to maintain and enhance its comparative advantages in Creative Sector- Fashion Industry. This workshop was an opportunity to help chart the new direction for the Fashion Industry in St.Vincent and the Grenadines.