The first cohort of Agribusiness Academy graduates (see related story) signals a significant moment in efforts to boost St. Maarten’s primary sector. Held by the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) in partnership with micro financing institute Qredits and the Temporary Work Organisation (TWO) implementing a “country package” of reforms, the 12-week course allowed participants to immerse themselves in business development training tailored to agriculture and fisheries, covering everything from modern agrarian methods to circular economy models.
The ideas presented highlighted not only traditional farming but innovative approaches, including sustainable farm-to-table business models and strategies to enhance the fisheries industry through collaboration and collective investment in tools. Graduates were also informed that their Qredits loan portal – offering financing at just 2% interest – is now open to receive their applications, giving them a unique opportunity to bring their ideas to life.
This is part of a programme aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship and enhancing food security. Needless to say the latter is particularly important for a small but densely populated island depending almost exclusively on overseas imports of groceries and located in the so-called hurricane belt.
Not that the country with its tourism economy may even hope to become fully self-sufficient this way in the near future, but every little bit can certainly help, one step at a time.
