NASSAU, BAHAMAS- The Government has completed its first Digi Innovative Projects Grant Programme, a $1 million national initiative that empowered eight Bahamian-owned businesses to develop tech-based solutions aimed at transforming public service delivery.

Hosted at the Digital Transformation Unit (DTU) office in New Providence, the closing ceremony brought together public officials and stakeholders from across multiple ministries to celebrate the milestone. The programme was established under the “Digital Transformation to Strengthen Competitiveness” agenda and was led by the Ministry of Economic Affairs through the DTU, in collaboration with Access Accelerator, the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC), and the Bahamas Development Bank (BDB). The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) served as the key funding partner.

Minister of Economic Affairs Senator Michael Halkitis called the initiative an example of “transformative governance in action,” and said the solutions presented showed that Bahamians are capable of designing and building their own digital future.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Mrs. Prenell King-Rolle, underscored the programme’s role in modernising government operations. “These innovations will promote transparency in government transactions, reduce costs, improve the way government does business, and minimize bureaucracy,” she said.

IDB Country Representative Shirley Gayle added that the programme reflects a broader regional shift toward digital development, stating that “governments worldwide are embracing digital transformation as a key enabler of development.”

A total of $1 million was allocated to support the development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT)-based solutions tailored to specific inefficiencies within government ministries, agencies, and departments. Each participating company received phased funding based on project milestones and impact evaluations.

The eight companies awarded were Bahamas Agricultural Solutions, The Bridge Solutions, Cleaner Greener Bahamas, Hospitality Group Ltd., Professional Pathways Consultants, SmartyPants, MADE Digital, and WILL Connect Business Solutions LLC.

The overall programme winner was Michael Flowers Jr., founder of Bahamas Agricultural Solutions, whose team developed a digital platform for food system planning and agricultural data management to support the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources.

Article Source: Eyewitness News

NASSAU, BAHAMAS- Cayplex Entertainment has secured $523,000 in funding through the Access Accelerator Small Business Development Centre’s program to support Phase One of its entertainment hub development on Grand Bahama, which will include a first-run movie theater and versatile event spaces, with completion expected by mid-summer 2025.

The development comes five years after Hurricane Dorian closed the island’s last first-run cinema. Phase One will include two auditoriums with 4K-compatible screens, a total of 150 seats, concession stands, and event spaces.

Brinard Sweeting, Founder and CEO of Cayplex Entertainment, said, “This is not just a personal milestone; it’s a defining moment for Grand Bahama. After years of setbacks, challenges, and countless sleepless nights, this is proof that faith and perseverance can overcome any obstacle. I began this journey with nothing but a dream and a belief that our island deserves more – a place for families to gather, communities to connect, and opportunities to flourish. This funding is the foundation of a vision to not only bring back the cinematic experience but to inspire hope and resilience in Grand Bahama. To everyone who has supported us, believed in us, or even doubted us – this is just the beginning. We’re not just building a theater; we’re building the future.”

The Access Accelerator Small Business Development Centre supports Cayplex Entertainment’s mission. Alexia Johnson, Communications and Marketing Lead, said, “Cayplex aligns with the SBDC’s mission to foster innovation because it offers a unique film and entertainment experience in Grand Bahama. Cayplex also demonstrates the power of innovation to address unmet needs within the community. By hosting strategic pop-up events and refining the concept based on audience feedback, Cayplex exemplifies how market research leads to sustainable, community-driven growth, which is at the core of what the Small Business Development Centre encourages from our clients.”

Sweeting thanked Fidelity Bank for its support: “We extend our heartfelt thanks to Fidelity Bank for believing in our vision and supporting us from ideation to reality. Their confidence in our journey has laid a foundation for what we anticipate will be a mutually rewarding partnership for years to come.”

Ms. Caline Newton, Certified Financial Coach and Business Strategist, who has worked with Sweeting for nearly five years, added: “Having collaborated one-on-one with Mr. Sweeting as his Financial Advisor and Business Development and Funding Strategist, I have witnessed firsthand his unwavering commitment and perseverance. This achievement not only underscores his dedication but also marks a pivotal moment that will contribute meaningfully to the economic growth of Grand Bahama.”

Cayplex is inviting investors to join its equity crowdfunding initiative, which has raised over $60,000. Funds will support future enhancements, including a boutique bowling alley and the installation of solar panels. Sweeting emphasized the opportunity: “This is more than a business; it’s a movement. We’re not just creating jobs or building infrastructure—we’re reigniting the spirit of Grand Bahama. For those who want to be part of something that makes a difference and has scalability, this is your chance. Together, we can redefine family-friendly entertainment, not just here, but across the region.”

Phase One is expected to be completed by mid-summer 2025, aligning with major blockbuster film releases. Cayplex plans to expand into markets such as Abaco, Turks & Caicos, and New Providence.

Article source: Eyewitness News

AFTER making a pledge last year of $200,000 to support the country’s fly fishing industry, the Government of The Bahamas made good on its promise: A cheque for $150,000 was presented to the Bahamas Fly Fishing Association during a ceremony on February 17 at the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources on East Bay Street.

#And an additional $50,000 investment will be made to the Small Business Development Centre(SBDC) to further support the industry.

#Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources Jomo Campbell said that this investment signals the government’s commitment and belief in the industry. 

#“This contribution reaffirms the government’s full support to the conservationists and leaders in their efforts to sustain the tourism industry and to support the world’s fly fishing destination,” he said.

#In attendance was Prescott Smith, president of the Bahamas Flying Fishing Association, who gave an overview of the development of the industry over the past decades. 

#He said that the investment signalled a long journey involving stakeholders from all of the major islands. He also expressed his gratitude for all of the support that the association has received over the years from donations from the country’s citizens and said that the fight for full recognition by the government is critical in order to further expand the Bahamas, which has the world’s largest flats.

#Association member Valentino Munroe said that the funds will be used to support the administrative aspects of the association, including housing of an office close to the airport, communication efforts, partnerships with operators, among other essentials.

Article Source: The Tribune