CED to host business support training for entrepreneurs

The Centre for Enterprise Development (CED) is hosting two workshops for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs and is inviting the public to take advantage of the opportunities being offered.

The first free workshop is scheduled for February 25, and 26, 2025 from 9:00 a.m to noon titled, “Building an Online Presence”, a release from CED states.

Participants will be empowered with tools and techniques for establishing a thriving online presence by delving into topics such as online branding, effective marketing strategies, optimizing social media and enhancing websites. They would also be provided with a 30-day Social Media Marketing template, which they can use to develop their individual plan for their businesses.

CED Training and Education Coordinator, Keisha Phillips, said it is necessary for entrepreneurs to make use of this training opportunity.

“In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is not just an option. It is a necessity for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) to have an online presence that can significantly impact your brand’s visibility, increase customer engagement, and contribute to the overall success. In this virtual workshop, we will explore the steps and strategies to create an impactful online presence for your business,” Phillips is quoted in the release as stating.

The other workshop, scheduled for March,5, 2025, is entitled “Accessing Financial Services”, and will give insight into financial management for entrepreneurs. After completing this one-day training, participants will be equipped with tools and techniques for financial mastery, along with the ability to discern funding requirements. The workshop will cover topics such as budgeting, cost analysis, pricing strategies, profit and loss statements, effective cash flow management, and preparing for funding.

Phillips said this training is part of the CED’s thrust towards financial inclusion education for MSMEs.

“Financial inclusion, and specifically access to finance has been identified as one of the main challenges that MSMEs in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Caribbean region face. We are offering this training on Accessing Financial Services to give entrepreneurs the knowledge and skills that they need,” she explained. “This workshop will help you develop a deep understanding of financial concepts, tools, and strategies, thereby enabling you to make informed decisions and navigate complex financial landscapes.”

This workshop will be held at the conference room of the CED from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Registration for both workshops can be done in person, or at the CED website: ced.gov.vc. Further information may also be obtained from the CED on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Meanwhile, interested persons are reminded that this Friday, 14 February, is the deadline for applications to the Technical Assistance for Men’s Employment and Entrepreneurship Development (TAMEED) programme.

The six-month project, is funded by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, aims to empower men by equipping them with the necessary skills, resources, and guidance to achieve sustainable employment and entrepreneurial success.

Women would also be accepted into the men’s empowerment project.