PHILIPSBURG: --- Last Thursday marked a pivotal moment for sustainable development and economic empowerment in St. Maarten with the official launch of the Agri Business Academy. This trailblazing initiative is a testament to the Ministry's commitment to economic diversification, sustainability, and food security in the nation. Developed collaboratively with Qredits and TWO, the academy is positioned as a vital resource to equip farmers, agriculturists, and landowners with the tools they need to succeed in modern agribusiness.
Suppose you're an aspiring or experienced professional in agriculture. In that case, the Agri Business Academy presents a unique opportunity to enhance your skills, grow your ventures, and contribute to a self-sufficient and resilient Agri-sector. The program’s first cohort has already heralded a promising start, and registration is now open for its next iteration, starting this October.
Empowering St. Maarten’s Agri-Sector Through Practical Learning
The Agri Business Academy program spans 15 weeks and offers a robust combination of practical agricultural training and essential business education. It’s designed to nurture an entrepreneurial mindset while providing participants with actionable skills to tackle challenges in the agri-sector. Whether you’re looking to refine your approach to supply chain management, improve marketing strategies, or perfect your product packaging, this program provides the tools to do just that. Crucially, the academy’s curriculum bridges the gap between agriculture and business, ensuring that participants not only succeed in the field but also the marketplace. By the end of the program, graduates will have a deeper understanding of how to manage operations efficiently, create value-added products, and secure a competitive edge in local and regional markets.
High-Value Incentives for Participants
One of the most enticing features of the Agri Business Academy is its integration with the Agri Loan program. Upon completing the 15-week training, participants become eligible to apply for an Agri Loan with highly favorable terms. The loan offers an interest rate of just 2%, alongside financing of up to $50,000 for growing agribusinesses. This access to affordable credit can be a game-changer, enabling farmers and landowners to scale their operations, invest in new technology, and develop innovative solutions.
It’s essential to note that completing the academy training is a prerequisite for loan eligibility. This ensures participants are well-prepared to manage their ventures responsibly and maximize their investments.
A Strong Start with the First Cohort
The inaugural cohort of the Agri Business Academy featured an impressive group of just under 20 participants. These included established business owners, emerging startups, and landowners eager to explore the vast potential of the agribusiness sector. This diversity underscores the program's broad appeal and relevance, attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a passion for agriculture and innovation.
Feedback from this first group has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing excitement about the knowledge gained and the community-building aspect of the academy. Their success stories will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration for the next wave of participants.
Registration Opens for October Session
For those interested in joining this transformative program, now is the time to act. Registration is officially open for the academy’s next session, slated to begin in October. Whether you’re a small-scale farmer looking to expand or a newcomer exploring opportunities in agriculture, this program is tailored to help you achieve your goals. Don't miss the chance to gain the skills and resources to take your agribusiness ambitions to the next level.
Recognizing the People Behind the Initiative
The Agri Business Academy would not have become a reality without the dedication and collaboration of key individuals and organizations. Special recognition goes to Shervin Frederick and Avril Isaac of the Department of ETT, who led this initiative under Country Package E6.
Their vision and hard work laid the foundation for what promises to be a lasting impact on the agricultural sector.
Gratitude is also extended to Ms. Bernise Stoffer of RVO and Ms. Leona Romeo of TWO. Their steadfast support and partnership were instrumental in bringing this innovative program to life.
Cultivating a More Resilient Future
With the launch of the Agri Business Academy, St. Maarten is taking bold steps toward building a more secure and sustainable future. By empowering individuals with the tools, skills, and access to funding they need, the academy not only strengthens the nation’s agricultural sector but also opens doors for economic development, job creation, and greater food security.
This is only the beginning. The Agri Business Academy represents a call to action for all those passionate about agriculture and sustainability. Together, we can cultivate resilience, foster innovation, and ensure that St. Maarten thrives for generations to come. Register today and join this exciting movement toward growth and self-sufficiency.
