Fifty-eight young entrepreneurs from across Antigua and Barbuda have completed the 2026 Entrepreneurship Edge Programme, following six weeks of intensive business training aimed at helping young people develop sustainable enterprises.

The programme, organised by the Department of Youth Affairs in partnership with the Sandals Foundation, marked the second consecutive year of collaboration between the two organisations.

This year’s programme recorded a significant increase in participation, bringing together aspiring and established entrepreneurs involved in businesses ranging from T-shirt production and after-school tutoring to refrigeration services and other small enterprises.

l-r Entrepreneurship Edge participant Chuntene George receiving her certificate of completion from Sandals General Manager David Latchimy.

The Sandals Foundation invested EC$38,000 in the initiative, which focused on providing participants with practical skills and knowledge needed to start, manage and grow their businesses.

Throughout the six weeks, participants received training in financial management, creativity and artificial intelligence, ethical leadership, project management, business accountability and sustainability, social entrepreneurship, funding opportunities and business plan development.

The Sandals team interacting with entrepreneurs at the Entrepreneurship Expo.

Training also covered public speaking and pitching, giving participants experience in presenting their ideas and businesses to potential customers and partners.

The programme concluded with an Entrepreneurship Expo held on International Youth Day, where participants were able to showcase their products and services to the public.

The event provided the young entrepreneurs with an opportunity to move beyond classroom training and gain practical experience promoting their businesses, interacting with potential customers and building professional networks.

Entrepreneurship Edge Expo participant Allan Martin, the gifted author of Everything You Feel.

Director of Youth Affairs Dr. Jrucilla Samuel said the increased participation reflected a growing interest in entrepreneurship among young people in Antigua and Barbuda.

“This year’s Entrepreneurship Edge Programme demonstrated both the growing interest in entrepreneurship among our young people and their commitment to completing a rigorous programme designed to prepare them for the realities of business,” Samuel said.

She noted that all 58 participants successfully completed the programme and represented a wide range of sectors.

Sandals Public Relations Manager, Leon Norville during his surprise announcement and presentation of complimentary evening pass for the programme’s top 3 performers and Director of Youth Affairs Dr. Jrucilla Samuel.

Samuel also pointed to entrepreneurship as one avenue for addressing youth unemployment and reducing reliance on traditional employment opportunities.

“At a time when youth unemployment remains a concern, we must continue creating pathways for young people to become job creators and not only job seekers,” she said.

“Entrepreneurship is part of the solution. By equipping our young people with practical business skills, mentorship and access to opportunities, we can help them build sustainable livelihoods while also reducing some of the pressure on the public sector to absorb our young workforce.”

l-r Entrepreneurship Edge participant Courtnie Joseph receiving her certificate of completion from Director of Youth Affairs Dr. Jrucilla Samuel.

Sandals Grande Antigua General Manager David Latchimy said the Foundation’s continued involvement reflects its belief that investment in young people is critical to the country’s long-term development.

“Entrepreneurship is not simply about starting a business; it is about recognizing opportunities where others see challenges, having the resilience to navigate setbacks, and possessing the courage to turn an idea into action,” Latchimy said.

He added that the partnership was an investment not only in individual businesses but also in young people capable of creating opportunities for themselves and others.

l-r CARICOM Youth Ambassador Chrysean Jarvis, President of the National Youth Parliament Association of Antigua and Barbuda Ezekiel Francois, Senator Johnathan Wehner and Senator Shaquan O’Neil interacting with entrepreneurs at the Entrepreneurship Expo.

Several participants were recognised for outstanding performance during the programme.

Phebe Salmon, Honora Thomas and Avanti Gardner were named the top three participants and each received a complimentary evening pass for two to Sandals Grande Antigua Resort and Spa.

The awards were presented by Latchimy and Sandals Grande Antigua Public Relations Manager Leon Norville.

Samuel was also presented with an evening pass for two in recognition of her leadership and coordination of this year’s programme and its supporting activities.

Entrepreneurship Edge Expo participant AuDe’s Kreations stood out as a vibrant showcase of artistry and innovation featuring handmade resin creations such as coasters, trays, incense goddesses, and ocean inspired sculptures, the display captured the imagination of attendees with its bold colors and intricate craftsmanship.

The Sandals Foundation said its support for Entrepreneurship Edge forms part of its wider efforts to strengthen Caribbean communities through education, skills development, leadership training and economic empowerment.

With this year’s programme completed, organisers say the 58 participants leave with strengthened networks, greater confidence and practical tools that can help them turn their ideas and existing businesses into sustainable ventures.