Caribbean Business Cruise: Empowering MSMEs for Growth and Networking

About the Caribbean Business Cruise

The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), through its Competitive Business Unit (CBU), is partnering with ISANAJA Consulting to bring the Caribbean Business Cruise (CBC) back for its 5th edition. This initiative aims to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the Caribbean with unique opportunities for business growth and networking.

Objective

The objective of the CBC is to provide a platform for entrepreneurs, project managers, and business professionals to connect, network, and foster collaboration. The cruise will visit multiple islands, including Barbados, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, from February 16 to 23, 2025.

Onboard Activities

Onboard, participants will engage in high-quality networking, workshops, conferences, and roundtable discussions, all designed to enhance their business acumen and market reach. The CBC not only offers an exceptional platform for strategic networking but also serves as a catalyst for business cooperation and development.

Stopovers and Local Support

At each stopover, MSMEs will step off the ship to participate in business-to-business meetings and workshops, organized in collaboration with local support organizations. This hands-on approach ensures that participants can forge meaningful connections, secure contracts, and explore new market opportunities.

CBU Support

The CBU, established to promote the competitiveness of OECS enterprises, has been a staunch supporter of the CBC since its inception. This year, the Unit is leveraging the OECS 11th EDF – Regional Integration for Growth Harmonisation and Technology (RIGHT) Programme to fund the participation of OECS MSMEs. This support is crucial in helping these businesses expand their export markets and enhance their competitive edge.

Conclusion

The Caribbean Business Cruise is an exceptional opportunity for MSMEs to grow their businesses, network, and connect with potential partners and clients. The OECS Commission and ISANAJA Consulting invite all stakeholders to join in supporting and promoting this transformative initiative. Together, we can navigate towards a brighter and more prosperous future for Caribbean businesses.

FAQs

Q: What is the objective of the Caribbean Business Cruise?
A: The objective is to empower MSMEs with unique opportunities for business growth and networking.

Q: Where will the cruise visit?
A: The cruise will visit multiple islands, including Barbados, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Q: What kind of activities will be held onboard?
A: High-quality networking, workshops, conferences, and roundtable discussions will be held onboard.

Q: What is the CBU’s role in the Caribbean Business Cruise?
A: The CBU is partnering with ISANAJA Consulting to bring the CBC to the Caribbean region and is providing funding for OECS MSMEs through the OECS 11th EDF – Regional Integration for Growth Harmonisation and Technology (RIGHT) Programme.