IN a bid to bolster the growth and development of small businesses, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce has reaffirmed its commitment to actively engaging with entrepreneurs and equipping them with the necessary knowledge and tools.

This initiative was exemplified in April 2023, when the ministry joined forces with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) to launch the groundbreaking ‘Digital in Motion’ programme tailored for small business owners.

“Digital in Motion” provides a step-by-step guide to help businesses re-tool and discover new ways to reach customers.

Providing an update on the progress of this initiative, Joel Parris, Special Projects Officer at the ministry, revealed that in June of last year, a total of 45 small business owners hailing from Region Three were the beneficiaries of the ‘Digital in Motion’ initiative.

This programme focused on training entrepreneurs on leveraging digital technology tools to enhance the efficiency and growth prospects of their businesses.

Expanding upon the success of the programme, the ministry has introduced a complementary initiative dubbed ‘In Motion’. Designed to revamp the business models of small enterprises, ‘In Motion’ offers personalised technical assistance to entrepreneurs. This programme was piloted in Region Two in 2023, with ambitious plans for expansion into three additional regions this year, aiming to cater to at least 60 more small businesses.

Speaking about the objectives of the ‘In Motion’ programme, Joel Parris emphasised its role in enhancing the commercial image and management practices of small businesses. He underscored, “The ‘In Motion’ programme complements the ‘Digital in Motion’ initiative, both of which are integral components of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) value chain programme spearheaded by the United Nations Development Program.”

The ministry’s proactive approach towards supporting small businesses reflects a broader commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic empowerment, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development agenda.

With innovative programmes like ‘Digital in Motion’ and ‘In Motion’, small business owners are poised to thrive in an increasingly digital and competitive marketplace, driving economic growth and resilience in communities across the nation.