The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

The Government is targeting 500 international companies with next month's Blockchain and cryptocurrency conference, the next step in its drive to establish Grand Bahama as a "technology hub".

Kwasi Thompson, pictured, minister of state for Grand Bahama, said yesterday that the Minnis administration believes Grand Bahama can become an internationally-recognised technology and innovation centre, and has set the goal of becoming the Caribbean's "Silicon Valley".

The Blockchain and Cryptocurrency conference, set for June 20-22 at the Grand Lucayan Convention Centre, is "designed to attract investors, entrepreneurs, and service providers and tech companies from all over the world who are focused on making investments, starting and developing companies, and building business relationships with Blockchain technology companies".

Mr Thompson added: "The Government believes that it is critical to not only talk about Grand Bahama and all we have to offer, but to open our doors and welcome the global community to see for themselves and dialogue with our local business community.

"It is also expected that the conference will have a significant immediate economic impact, as we intend to fill hotel rooms, taxis, restaurants and tours. However, it is anticipated that these international companies that come - and our target is 500 - that we show them what the Bahamas has to offer and why Grand Bahama is the right place to invest."

According to Mr Thompson, the conference will feature a series of high-calibre international speakers and panellists, including Brock Pierce and Anthony Di lorio, who have been featured on Forbes Magazine's Cryptocurrency Billionaires list.