Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, April 24, 2025 – Invest Turks and Caicos, through its Business Support Unit (BSU), successfully hosted the inaugural “Breakfast and Business: Incubator and Accelerator Networking Event” on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at The Palms, Providenciales. The event was moderated by BSU Business Advisors, Ms. Lashena Simmons and Ms. Judith Guerrier, and was designed to connect programme participants with mentors, business experts, and potential collaborators.
This dynamic in-person gathering brought together early-stage entrepreneurs, business owners, hoteliers, and key stakeholders to network, exchange insights, and explore strategic support options for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Central to the initiative was Invest TCI’s partnership with DMZ Canada, a leading global startup incubator.
The morning opened with welcome remarks from Acting CEO of Invest TCI, Ms. Judith Garland, followed by a keynote address delivered by Mrs. Anissa Adderley, Director of the Business Support Unit. Mrs. Adderley reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and cultivating a thriving innovation ecosystem. Remarks from Ms. Alexandra Ali-Dib, Senior Manager of Global Programmes, and Mr. Darren Shivraj, Programmes Lead, both from DMZ, underscored the strength of the partnership and DMZ’s continued investment in developing high-potential startups in emerging markets like the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Launched earlier this year, the Accelerator and Incubator Programmes currently support 48 active participants across diverse sectors such as agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, creative industries, and technology. By encouraging entrepreneurial talent in these areas, the programmes serve as a catalyst for innovation and strategic sector diversification. Notably, a significant trend emerging across both cohorts is the rise of women-led businesses, which now represent most participants, highlighting women’s critical role in shaping the economic future of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
A key highlight of the event was the “Creating Linkages: A Private Sector Perspective” segment, led by Hon. Tamell Seymour, Member of Parliament for South Caicos and General Manager at Graceway Smart. Hon. Seymour shared practical insights on closing the gap between entrepreneurship and market access, underscoring the value of strong private sector engagement.
Participants also heard compelling stories from programme members, including Ms. Mary Fulford of Island Mystique, representing the Accelerator Programme, and Ms. Alexa Cooper, an early-stage entrepreneur in the Incubator Programme. Their testimonials demonstrated the real-world impact of Invest TCI’s support and the resilience of emerging local businesses.
Mrs. Anissa Adderley, Director of the Business Support Unit, stated: “This event is more than a calendar milestone, it’s a celebration of vision, commitment, and the powerful potential of entrepreneurship in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through these programmes, we’re not just building skills; we’re cultivating a network, fostering innovation, and shaping a future where local entrepreneurs are empowered to succeed.”
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mrs. Charlene Astwood, followed by a vibrant networking session where attendees engaged with each other, mentors, and partners over breakfast.
Invest TCI’s Business Support Unit continues to lead initiatives that build the capacity of early-stage and growth-oriented businesses through mentorship, funding access, and global partnerships.
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About Invest Turks and Caicos
Invest Turks and Caicos is the Islands’ Investment Promotion Agency, responsible for enhancing the economy through the attraction, growth and retention of overseas investment; and supporting the growth of local businesses.
We provide a free and confidential service to overseas businesses looking to expand and will work with a company project team throughout the investment process, providing advice and support. This can include:
– Information on the local business climate;
– facilitating contact with relevant Government Departments throughout the investment process;
– advice on Government incentives and concessions to investors;
– introductions to local service providers/suppliers;
– advice on work permits and permanent residency procedures;
– ongoing support following set up.
We also work actively to support the growth of local businesses, including the management and delivery of the Micro Small and Medium Enterprise programme which provides concessions and reliefs to locally owned businesses.
