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From L-R: Caleb Gardiner – EDP Board Director, Ms. Krista Harry – EDP Executive Assistant, Ms. Ezra Bontiff – Customer Service Officer, Mr. Ahmed Moustafa – Finance and Economic Specialist, Ms. Jennifer Joseph – UNDP Joint Programme Coordinator. (photo by EDP)
PRESS RELEASE
St. John’s, Antigua — In a critical step toward reshaping the economic landscape of Antigua and Barbuda, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Prime Minister’s Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP) have partnered to empower the heartbeat of the nation’s economy: Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Through an essential initiative under the Joint Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Multi-Partner Trust Fund, the collaboration seeks to close critical financial gaps and champion the voices of women and youth entrepreneurs in traditionally underserved communities.
Titled “Optimizing Innovative Finance for Underserved Groups to Build Resilience and Accelerate the Achievement of the SDGs,” the project addresses one of the most pressing challenges MSMEs face—limited access to capital. This issue is particularly acute for Small Island Developing States like Antigua and Barbuda, where systemic barriers continue to block women and youth from securing the funding needed to start, sustain, or grow their businesses.
In interactive focus groups, EDP and UNDP invited key stakeholders, aspiring entrepreneurs, and policy leaders to unite in dialogue and action.
On Wednesday, April 2nd, participants gathered at the Trade Winds Hotel under the theme: “Reducing the Risks Associated with Financing MSMEs.” The event spotlighted strategic pathways to reduce risks and unlock new financial models that include and uplift marginalized voices.
Two days later, on Friday, April 4th, the movement continued at the John E. St. Luce Conference Center, where the focus shifted to “Empowering MSMEs: Fostering Growth for Women and Youth.” The EDP proudly served as a Partnering Host and Expert Panelist, offering critical insight and inspiration from years of championing innovation and entrepreneurship across the twin-island state.
“This initiative is not just a policy discussion—it’s a promise,” said EDP Board Director Caleb Gardiner. “A promise to ensure no entrepreneur is left behind because of gender, age, geography, or economic circumstance. Our partnership with UNDP proves that transformation becomes inevitable when we combine vision with action.”
On April 9th, the movement extended to Barbuda, where the UNDP and EDP met with the Barbuda Council to explore localized financial empowerment strategies. Community consultations were held with existing entrepreneurs and ambitious young women eager to launch their ventures, ensuring the project reflects lived realities and real needs on the ground.
This multi-agency effort—supported by the UNDP, UN Women Caribbean, and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)—underscores a collective commitment to gender equality, inclusive economic growth, and technological innovation, all aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “I am excited about this collaboration, as it presents a valuable opportunity for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Antigua and Barbuda to fully leverage the diverse range of programs and services the Entrepreneurial Development Programme provides. This initiative is designed to enhance access to innovative financial solutions specifically aimed at underserved groups, focusing on supporting businesses owned by women and youth. By addressing these entrepreneurs’ unique challenges, the project seeks to empower them and foster sustainable economic growth within the community,” said Jennifer Joseph, UNDP Joint Programme Coordinator.
Together, EDP and UNDP are not only breaking barriers—they’re building bridges—bridges to opportunity, empowerment, and a more resilient Antigua and Barbuda where everyone, regardless of gender, age, or location, can dream, dare, and deliver.
For more information about the EDP, its mission, and ongoing projects, details will be shared during the events and on request.
Media Contact:
Prime Minister’s Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP)
Email: pmedpanu@gmail.com
Phone: (268) 481-1013
This press release is distributed by the Prime Minister’s Entrepreneurship Development Programme in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Antigua and Barbuda.
That’s alot of reading but I understand the concept. I am concerned though about those small men and women on the lower rung of the ladder, if they also would be able to access these funds
What about this young man who they promised an position in Washington? He still in Antigua? So they removed this young senator to make way for another, promising his a job that he never got?
This is such a positive step for Antigua and Barbuda! Empowering women and youth entrepreneurs is essential to building a more inclusive and resilient economy. It’s exciting to see the government and international organizations working together to address real financial barriers that have historically held back many businesses. Looking forward to seeing the impact of these programs.
It’s good and all to empower the women but what about the men? Men are not doing that great you know! Let’s see a balanced approach
Wait!!! I thought this Kaleb guy was removed from the Senate because he had to travel overseas to be some sort of . Its been so long I don’t even remember what it was