The Tribune

More than 200 licensees and aspiring entrepreneurs attended the Business Innovation and e-Commerce Boot Camp, hosted by the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) and its Invest Grand Bahama Small Business Bureau (IGBSBB), on June 8.

Ian Rolle, the GBPA's president, said: "We were indeed impressed by the turnout of local businesses for this event. I believe it clearly demonstrates that the business community is ready to embrace the use of e-commerce.

"And, although we are a small community, local merchants are quite capable of offering their goods and services within the global marketplace. Additionally, we sought to inspire new ideas and encourage innovation within the SME sector, with presentations by Shopify and AeroFarms."

Attendees had ample opportunities for networking and interaction with both Bahamian and international presenters.

Nicola Kelly, creative ideas officer for Nikki's Trinkets, said: "Entrepreneurship is not for small minds, the lazy or quitters. It's for the go-getters who fight for their success; fuelled by faith and a belief that their dream will happen with guidance and support."

She has been working to create her own website with Shopify, and added: "I know I have a great product made here in the Bahamas, and e-commerce is the best way to get my treasures around the world. I am motivated to spread love and joy, one authentically made Bahamian craft at a time."

Marvin Johnson, president of Place Builders and Coastal Supplies and Services, said he has consistently attended the IGBSBB training events. He added: "The sessions are very informative, and the fact that we as licensees of GBPA can experience this level of professional development initiatives at home is a true testament to the value of a GBPA business license.

"These sessions are also good because they provide continued motivation to develop and strengthen the online presence of my businesses, and thereby increase our ability to attract more customers."

Derek Newbold, senior manager of business development for the GBPA and Invest Grand Bahama, said: "Local businesses are enthusiastic about global opportunities through e-commerce. That said, our efforts are designed to reveal what is possible both locally and abroad.

"As the entity responsible for business licensing within Freeport, we will continue to introduce meaningful and impactful training initiatives, so that Grand Bahama remains the ideal destination not only for foreign investment, but one that allows domestic investors to diversify, innovate and grow their businesses."