The Sandals Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and economic development through an EC$38,000 investment in the Department of Youth Affairs' Entrepreneurship Edge Programme, which officially commenced this week at the Multipurpose Cultural and Exhibition Centre.

Now in its second consecutive year of partnership with the Department of Youth Affairs, the Sandals Foundation continues to support the development of Antigua and Barbuda's next generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, and business leaders.

The six-week programme, held twice weekly, brings together a dynamic cohort of young small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs from across Antigua and Barbuda who are committed to growing their enterprises and transforming innovative ideas into sustainable ventures.

Throughout the programme, participants will engage in a comprehensive curriculum covering Creativity and Artificial Intelligence, Financial Management, Ethical Leadership, Project Management, Business Accountability and Sustainability, Social Entrepreneurship, Funding Opportunities, Business Plan Fundamentals, and Public Speaking and Pitching Skills. Delivered by experienced professionals, entrepreneurs, and subject matter experts, these sessions are designed to equip participants with the practical skills, strategic thinking, and confidence needed to navigate today's business landscape and build successful enterprises that contribute to national development.

Speaking at the programme's opening ceremony, Sandals Public Relations Manager, Leon Norville, underscored the importance of investing in young people and creating opportunities that foster innovation, creativity, and economic growth. “At the Sandals Foundation, we recognize that the future of our communities depends on the ability of our young people to innovate, lead, and create opportunities for themselves and others,” said Norville. “Our investment to date of approximately EC$50,000 in the Entrepreneurship Edge reflects our commitment to empowering the next generation of business leaders with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to succeed.”

Sandals General Manager, David Latchimy, commended the Department of Youth Affairs for its continued dedication to youth development and for creating a platform that addresses the realities faced by young entrepreneurs as they navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business.

He noted that the Foundation's partnership with the Department extends beyond financial support and represents a shared commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent, fostering innovation, and equipping young people with the tools needed to transform ideas into viable and sustainable business ventures.

Director of Youth Affairs, Dr. Jrucilla Samuel, highlighted the Department's ongoing commitment to fostering entrepreneurship among the nation's youth. “By connecting participants with successful business leaders and providing access to critical resources, the Entrepreneurship Edge Programme is helping to build a stronger and more resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem in Antigua and Barbuda,” Samuel said.

She further explained that the programme seeks to address common challenges faced by startups and emerging businesses while promoting innovation, leadership, accountability, and sustainability. Through mentorship, networking opportunities, and practical learning experiences, participants will gain valuable insights into building resilient enterprises capable of thriving in an evolving economic environment.

As Antigua and Barbuda continues to place greater emphasis on entrepreneurship, innovation, and youth empowerment as drivers of national development, partnerships such as this demonstrate the power of collaboration between the public and private sectors in creating pathways for meaningful economic participation and sustainable growth.

The Sandals Foundation remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen Caribbean communities through education, skills development, leadership training, and economic empowerment.

The programme will culminate in the Entrepreneurship Edge Expo following six weeks of intensive engagement, where participants will showcase their business concepts, products, and services.

“By the programme's conclusion, participants will be better equipped to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions, expand their businesses, create opportunities within their communities, and contribute to the continued economic development of Antigua and Barbuda,” the Director of Youth Affairs concluded.