The non-profit charts a path to greater impact through strategic partnerships

Nassau, The Bahamas (Oct. 3, 2025)— The Small Business Development Centre (SBDC Bahamas) is marking its seventh anniversary with a powerful milestone: more than $94 million in grant, loan and equity funding directed to Bahamian entrepreneurs. This positions the organization to reach the $100 million mark in approved funding in the coming year.

Since its launch in 2018, SBDC Bahamas has grown into the nation’s leading resource for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), offering advisory services, training, and access to capital. In just seven years, the SBDC has served more than 2,500 clients across 16 islands, helping to build businesses that create new opportunities and diversify economies.

“The SBDC was established to close the gap between Bahamian entrepreneurs and the resources they need to succeed. we have proven that intentional programmes, structured training, and carefully disbursed funding can strengthen our economy,” said Samantha Rolle, Executive Director of SBDC Bahamas. “As we approach the $100 million milestone, our results demonstrate why partnerships with financial institutions, government, and the private sector are essential to expanding this impact.”

Over the past few years, the SBDC has expanded its impact with targeted programmes designed to address the diverse needs of Bahamian entrepreneurs. The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Initiative, which was launched in 2024, was the first of its kind in The Bahamas and provided approximately $100,000 in approved grant funding for entrepreneurs with disabilities. SBDC Bahamas also hosted programmes specifically for women, young entrepreneurs, and fly-fishing guides and lodge owners. The fly-fishing industry represents a multi-million-dollar sector that is vital to tourism and local livelihoods. By supporting Bahamian ownership and leadership in this space, the SBDC is working to ensure that one of our most valuable natural resources continues to deliver lasting benefits for Bahamians.

The SBDC continues to invest in education as the foundation of sustainable business success. To date, the organization has delivered more than 7,300 virtual hours of training, equipping entrepreneurs with the tools to strengthen operations, manage finances, and expand markets. In 2024, the SBDC introduced its Business Blueprint Training Course, which is its first standardized training curriculum. The course ensures that entrepreneurs across industries and stages of business receive the same foundational knowledge and skills to prepare for funding and long-term growth.

Entrepreneurs supported by the SBDC have opened storefronts, expanded operations, launched creative ventures, and strengthened industries such as professional services, transportation, and construction. Through this, the SBDC has assisted in supported the launch and growth of more than 600 startup businesses throughout the islands and generated additional economic activity, providing meaningful work for Bahamians and contributing to the country’s economy.

The SBDC’s flagship Guaranteed Loan Programme continues to simplify the funding process between entrepreneurs and financial institutions, reducing barriers to access while ensuring entrepreneurs are better prepared with viable business plans. Programmes and initiatives like this, Rolle emphasizes, need deeper partnerships to sustain and scale. “Our vision is a smarter, more diverse Bahamian economy, and we know we can’t achieve this alone. Each partnership allows us to bring new opportunities to entrepreneurs, expand our reach in the Family Islands, and ensure that the next $100 million in funding delivers even greater national impact. By working together, each dollar invested contributes to a stronger business, a new job, and a more informed entrepreneur.”

We believe in entrepreneurs of all abilities! That's why, through our Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Initiative The SBDC Bahamas provided $100,000 in funding to 10 resilient entrepreneurs! This initiative rooted in empowerment provided tailored training and strategy coupled with financing to ensure that our Entrepreneurs with Disabilities can succeed in an ever changing economy.

Last week, Prime Minister Philip Davis visited the Central Andros Shipping vessel, a proud moment for the Small Business Development Centre as we continue to witness the real impact of our work across The Bahamas.

In 2021, Central Andros Shipping received $735,000 in funding, the largest single approval in our history, made possible through our partnership with Fidelity Bank and the Bahamas Entrepreneurial Venture Fund.

From concept to operation, our team supported Valentino Munroe every step of the way, helping transform a family legacy into a fully operational shipping company that now serves Andros and beyond.

This is the power of The Small Business Development Centre.