Residents looking to start a business, access financing or learn more about financial opportunities will have the chance to connect directly with banks, government agencies and private sector organizations at the Directorate of Gender Affairs’ upcoming Access to Finance and Economic Empowerment Fair.

The event is scheduled for Thursday, July 16, at the Multi-Purpose and Cultural Center and forms part of the Directorate’s Gender and Private Sector Initiative (GPSI), which seeks to expand financial inclusion and create greater economic opportunities for people across Antigua and Barbuda.

Unlike a traditional expo, the fair is being promoted as a one-stop hub where members of the public can meet with financial institutions, explore funding opportunities, receive advice on entrepreneurship and learn about programmes designed to support business development and personal financial growth.

Programme Officer and lead coordinator Ashlea Ambris said the initiative is intended to make financial services more accessible by bringing key service providers together in a single location.

“Our goal is to make financial information and services more accessible by bringing key providers together in one location,” Ambris said. “We invite the public to seize this opportunity to learn, connect and take the next step toward economic empowerment with this unique opportunity of a one-stop approach to access to services.” 

Executive Director of the Directorate of Gender Affairs Jamie Saunders said the fair also represents an important partnership with the private sector to ensure financial products and services better reflect the needs of different groups within society.

“This will be a unique event, as it fully engages the private sector in relation to exhibiting gender responsive financial products and services, and linking youth, women, men, and a diverse set of people to opportunities designed specific for them and their needs,” Saunders said.

Organizers say attendees will be able to engage directly with participating organizations, obtain information on available financial products and services, and receive guidance on resources that can help improve their economic well-being.

The Directorate is encouraging members of the public, including aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners and anyone interested in strengthening their financial future, to attend the event and take advantage of the resources available.