Local MSMEs schooled in green sustainable business practices

The benefits of transitioning to green and sustainable business practices was one of the focal points of an Invest SVG and Caribbean Export Development Agency (CEDA) workshop held this week.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the three-day initiative, November 26-28, 2024), Shari Pollard-Payne, a consultant attached to CEDA’s Competitiveness and Export Promotion arm, described the workshop as “pivotal”, and an important step towards addressing two critical priorities for the region. She highlighted these as capacity building for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and transitioning to green and sustainable business practices.

The workshop which took place at the National Insurance Services (NIS) conference room in the NIS Building, Upper Bay Street, was attended by over 11 local MSMEs “By empowering these firms with the tools and knowledge to innovate, scale, and adopt sustainable strategies, we are not only enhancing their competitiveness, but also paving the way for a greener more resilient future,” Pollard-Payne said.

She noted that the collaborative effort by Invest SVG and CEDA is a continued effort to empower local businesses.

Sessions over the three-day period focussed on such issues as renewable energy technologies, energy conservation techniques, energy efficient techniques, and identifying wastage.

The workshop also explored how to strengthen the capacity of MSMEs while fostering regional and international trade and aligning with global sustainability standards.

Pollard-Payne said participation at the workshop reflected a collective determination to build resilient economies that can withstand global challenges and seize emerging opportunities.

“It is through partnerships like these, between organisations, businesses and governments that we drive meaningful change and secure the future of our economies,” Pollard-Payne said, while noting that there is a transformative power attached to collaboration, innovation and sustainability.

The launch also heard from Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Invest SVG, Glen Beache, and facilitator and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Barbados based Atom Solutions Inc., Dr. Erwin Edwards.

MSMEs that attended the workshop include, Black Orchid SVG, Solife Solar, Afro Chips SVG, Common Ground SVG, Fountain of Youth, New Flower Enterprise, Nubian Flower, and Miss Cassandra’s. A representative from the Centre for Enterprise Development (CED) was also present.