The Government of the Virgin Islands has reiterated its commitment to provide a secure future for residents by being a strong advocate of local investment.

These sentiments were expressed by Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando Smith, OBE, as the Department of Trade and Consumer Affairs prepares to launch its Business of the Month and Innovative Business of the Year campaign as part of the department’s overall investment strategy.

Premier Smith stated, “My Government has always been a strong advocate of local investment and this remains high on our priorities in building stronger business relationships, and providing a secure future for the residents of the Virgin Islands.” 

“We are creating an atmosphere where local businesses can grow and thrive,” said Premier Smith as he underscored the importance of Virgin Islanders investing in the various business sectors which work with the Trade and Consumer Affairs Department.

Meanwhile, Director in the Trade and Consumer Affairs Department, Mrs. Karia Christopher said the investment strategy includes a series of events designed to educate, enlighten and promote entrepreneurship in the Virgin Islands.

Mrs. Christopher remarked that this is an exciting time in the Virgin Islands for the Trade and Consumer Affairs Department as the team prepares the Territory for local investment to help further drive the economy. 

The Business of the Month programme was designed to help drive the strategy and promote and assist small businesses in the BVI.  

Through this programme, a local business will be featured and showcased every month. In addition, at the end of the year one of the featured businesses will be nominated for Small Business of the Year.

Mrs. Christopher said, “The goal is to move beyond the traditional single events and open an avenue to showcase a different local small business each month. Through this medium, the department can help small businesses to market their business and build a network with the consumer and other business customers.”

The Director further stated that the launch of the two campaigns is part of the department’s sustained efforts to fuel entrepreneurial spirit and encourage friendly competition.

 “Additionally, we are working to ensure that our local businesses understand the importance of service, delivery and customer satisfaction,” she added.

Winners will receive support to propel their company forward, and a cash prize. The launch of these two campaigns will take place today, March 3.

The prizes for the featured business of the Month include, a GIS interview with owner; sponsored commercials for the month on radio and television; a business profile on the Government’s Web site and the online media; a featured article in our local newspapers; profile on BVI Chamber of Commerce & Hotel Association (BVICCHA) web site; one year’s free membership with BVICCHA; and framed certificates for Business of the Month.

Businesses can apply, or public nominate businesses or business persons by submitting a nomination form and an essay of at least 300 words stating why the nominee should be considered for the Business of the Month award.

Application forms are available online at bvi.gov.vg and must be submitted to the Trade and Consumer Affairs Department in the Sebastian Building. Alternatively, submissions may be emailed to lmercer@gov.vg.

The Department of Trade and Consumer Affairs is responsible for facilitating the development and growth of the BVI business environment, by helping businesses to realise their full potential. This is done through the establishment and management of programmes and networks that provide information, education, training, finance and other assistance in order to foster sustained economic development in the BVI.