Access Accelerator, Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) is celebrating four years of empowering Bahamian entrepreneurs and business owners to reach their full potential through access to funding opportunities. The anniversary was celebrated with a press reception coupled with the launch of a new programme that will positively impact The Bahamas’ food production industry.

The Interim Executive Director Samantha Rolle said it was important that Access Accelerator celebrate its accomplishments.

“Our people provide an extreme level of commitment to our clients. The greatest reward that our team members experience is when our clients succeed. Our clients advancement of achieving their goals and dreams as entrepreneurs validates the success of the organisation,” she said. “The success of these individuals highlights what we are doing, our level of investment, our results and ultimately our impact. Commemorating every year that we have advanced Bahamian small business is certainly an achievement to celebrate.”, she added.

Since its establishment, Access Accelerator has serviced approximately 1,934 clients disbursing a total of 73 million dollars across 40 industries and 15 islands. It is notable to mention that 48 percent of the SBDC's client base are females and 52 percent are males.

Ms. Rolle said Access Accelerator’s key pillars are people, process and product. "My principal focus is to foster a results-driven, progressive culture leaning on the strategic values of people, strengthening partnerships - internal and external - enhancing our service delivery, and finally accelerating access for all," she said.

For Access Accelerator how we show up with our clients, partners, and our wider communities is important to us. To this end, we have adopted Sustainable Development Goals (SDG's) which will serve as the blueprint to accelerating action in equitable and inclusive processes that will improve the health and well-being of our Bahamian people and the planet at large. One of our primary SDG's is Zero Hunger, and as we mark the 4th anniversary of the organization, we are pleased to announce the launch of the Sustainable Food Growth Grant, a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs to develop production systems for national food security.

Cable Bahamas Business Solutions (CBBS) and Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) are delighted to announce the continued success of "The Corporate Connection," radio talk show, where they shine a spotlight on startup and existing entrepreneurs and businesses, contributing to the growth and vibrancy of the local business community.

"The Corporate Connection" has become a highly anticipated platform for entrepreneurs, startups, and established businesses in The Bahamas to share their inspiring stories, innovative ideas, and experiences with a broader audience. Hosted by prominent representatives from Cable Bahamas Business Solutions and the SBDC, the show aims to encourage entrepreneurship, foster networking opportunities, and promote eco- nomic development across the region.

POW! Pancakes, Omelets & Waffles Ltd., was the latest business to be featured during the morning show appearance on Y98. POW! was founded by Xavia Rolle- Higgs in 2017. The organization has rapidly gained popularity for its delectable and creatively crafted pan- cakes, omelets, and waffles, earning a loyal customer base and garnering attention across multiple social media platforms. Through the unwavering support and resources provided by the SBDC, "POW!" has overcome challenges, expanded its operations to include a brick- and-mortar establishment, and solidified its position as a prominent player in the local food and beverage industry.

"I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support we have received from SBDC,” commented Rolle- Higgs. "Their expertise, resources, and encouragement have been instrumental in turning my passion for cooking into a thriving business venture. We are also thankful to Cable Bahamas Business Solutions. Their cutting-edge technology and reliable internet connectivity have been vital in enhancing our online presence, streamlining our operations, and reaching a wider customer base. With CBBS by our side, we feel empowered to navigate the digital landscape and grow our business to new heights,: she continued.

The SBDC is committed to supporting the growth and sustainability of local businesses and plays a crucial role in identifying promising entrepreneurs within their Guaranteed Loan Programme and fund- ed client base to be featured on the show. They provide guidance, resources, and encouragement to these entrepreneurs, ensuring they make the most of this valuable opportunity.

"As a supporter of entrepreneurship, the SBDC takes great pride in connecting entrepreneurs with the right platform to share their stories and inspire others," said Michaela Munnings, corporate communications manager. "We believe that sharing experiences and knowledge is instrumental in nurturing a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem."

Each month, the show features a diverse lineup of guests, ranging from emerging entrepreneurs to seasoned business leaders, from various industries. These dynamic entrepreneurs have the chance to

discuss their ventures, challenges faced, milestones achieved, and the impact they're making in their respective sectors.

CBBS, the leading technology provider, has been instrumental in powering local businesses like "POW!" with its online presence and digital capabilities. Through its reliable and high-speed internet connectivity, CBBS enables seamless online ordering, efficient communication with customers, and enhanced digital marketing efforts for the business.

"We are thrilled to see the tremendous growth and success of 'POW and take great pride in being a part of their journey," said Jennifer Basden, Head of Marketing for B2B Innovations. "Our mission is to empower local businesses with cutting-edge technology and digital solutions, and it's inspiring to witness the positive impact it has on entrepreneurs like "POW!"

"The Corporate Connection" airs once monthly on Y98.7 at 8:30 am. To learn more about the show or inquire about becoming a featured guest, please contact 461-SBDC.

Cable Bahamas Business Solutions (CBBS) and the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) and partnered with the Fox Hill Festival Committee for the second event in their Level Up series. Level Up is a quarterly training work- shop designed to empower startup and existing micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) throughout The Bahamas.

This partnership was birthed out of the committee’s desire to expand the events surrounding the annual historic Fox Hill Festival and Junkanoo Rush out in celebration of its 35th year, to now include a personal development com- ponent that will build the community and empower its residents.

"Our mission is to address the total needs of all Fox Hillians by empowering all generations to improve their personal, social, financial and physical status, while maintaining the strong cultural fabric of our unique historical community," said Georgette Gardiner, executive member of the Fox Hill Festival Committee. "This partnership with Cable Bahamas and the SBDC for Level Up marks our first community outreach initiative for 2023." The event, held on Saturday, June 10th at the Fox Hill Community Centre, drew almost 100 attendees including Royal Bahamas Defence Force officers, Fox Hill residents, existing business owners and budding entrepreneurs. The presenters included subject matter experts from the SBDC, CBBS, Department of Inland Revenue, National Workers Cooperative Credit Union (NWCCU), the Central Bank's Sand Dollar Unit and Island Pay.

In her opening remarks at the event, Samantha Rolle, executive director of the SBDC, noted that the Level Up workshop is a game-changer for entrepreneurs looking to take their businesses to new heights. "We are excited to work alongside Cable Bahamas Business Solutions and the Fox Hill Festival Committee to bring Level Up II to the Fox Hill community. We understand the challenges that they face and believe that providing the right resources and knowledge is essential for success. We believe that our workshop will be a transformative experience, equipping participants with the skills and confidence they need to level up their business," Rolle added.

Director of B2B Innovations Delmaro Duncombe, shared similar sentiments to Rolle, stating that the partnership with the SBDC was the ideal match. "Our collective aim is to foster a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing aspiring business owners with the knowledge, resources and connections they need to succeed. These series of workshops serve as a platform for learning, growth, and collaboration, enabling participants to overcome challenges and achieve their entrepreneurial goals."

Cable Bahamas Business Solutions and the Small Business Development Centre are fully committed to providing much-needed resources and support to MSMEs in The Bahamas. To this end, plans are under- way for Level Up III to be held in Grand Bahama this September. Both organizations are excited to take this dynamic workshop to the nation's second city, giving Grand Bahamian business owners greater access to the tools and support needed to succeed in today's constantly changing business environment.

For more information about the Level Up entrepreneurial training workshop, contact the SBDC via email at marketing@sbdcbahamas.com or phone 461-SBDC.