The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has been instrumental in empowering small entrepreneurs to expand their businesses beyond local markets, enabling them to achieve global success. Through strategic partnerships and targeted support programs, CDB has facilitated the international growth of numerous micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across the Caribbean. This article delves into notable export success stories, highlighting how CDB’s initiatives have transformed local businesses into global competitors.

Caribshopper: Bridging Caribbean Products to the World

Caribshopper, an e-commerce platform supported by CDB, has revolutionized the way Caribbean products reach international consumers. With a focus on connecting Caribbean entrepreneurs to the diaspora, Caribshopper offers over 6,000 Caribbean-made products to more than 40,000 subscribers. This initiative has provided nearly 800 businesses from Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago with access to customers in the United States and Canada. Plans are underway to expand into the United Kingdom and other markets, aiming to onboard businesses from Barbados, Guyana, and Saint Kitts and Nevis by the end of 2024.

One notable success story is that of Gale Charles, the entrepreneur behind Charlo Farms Ltd in Trinidad and Tobago. Starting from a passion for home gardening, Gale’s family-run enterprise now produces high-quality, all-natural seasonings. The partnership with Caribshopper during the COVID-19 pandemic provided the necessary boost to expand into international markets. Similarly, Sonya Dunstan, Creative Director of A Taste of the Caribbean Limited in Jamaica, has seen her business flourish through the platform. Her small team transforms authentic Jamaican produce into products like jams, sauces, and seasonings, making Caribbean flavors available year-round to locals and the diaspora alike.

NUDGE: Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Corporate Collaboration

NUDGE, a collaborative initiative between CDB and the Massy Group, serves as a direct bridge between innovative entrepreneurs and the Caribbean’s largest and most established companies. With a USD 1 million investment from Massy Group and USD 320,000 from CDB, NUDGE has targeted market-ready entrepreneurs across a range of products and services, onboarding 69 from Trinidad, 44 from Barbados, and 32 from St. Lucia. The program provides business development support, marketing assistance, and display space in Massy Stores, facilitating the growth of nearly 200 entrepreneurs.

For instance, Barbadian entrepreneurs Royston Hoyte and Tyree Weekes, co-founders of Liquid Desires, received business development support and exposure at Massy Stores, along with USD 1,000 in capital support. This assistance propelled their gourmet food and beverage company to new heights, increasing brand recognition and customer attraction. Similarly, St. Lucian entrepreneur Nydia Norville developed a range of natural skincare products under the brand Choiselle. With capital, mentorship, and pop-up opportunities at Massy retail outlets, Nydia successfully launched her product line, moving from concept to market-testing in just eight months.

Altus Exports: Partnering with Indian Manufacturers for Global Reach

While CDB’s initiatives have significantly impacted Caribbean entrepreneurs, similar opportunities exist for Indian manufacturers aiming to expand their global footprint. Altus Exports, a premier merchant exporter, specializes in delivering the best of India’s textiles, handicrafts, chemicals, and food products to international markets. Committed to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, Altus Exports serves as an ideal partner for manufacturers seeking global expansion.

Altus Exports offers a comprehensive partnership model that simplifies the complex process of exporting. By acting as an extension of a manufacturer’s business, Altus Exports provides expertise in finding buyers, access to comprehensive databases, a skilled marketing team, and an extensive network of contacts across various industries and regions. This approach ensures that products meet international standards and reach the right markets efficiently.

Manufacturers interested in partnering with Altus Exports should possess export-quality products, aspire for global expansion, and have the necessary documentation and certifications for seamless export operations. By collaborating with Altus Exports, Indian manufacturers can navigate the complexities of international trade and achieve success in the global marketplace.

Conclusion

The success stories of Caribbean entrepreneurs underscore the transformative impact of strategic support and partnerships in achieving global expansion. Organizations like the Caribbean Development Bank have played a pivotal role in facilitating this growth. Similarly, Indian manufacturers can leverage partnerships with entities like Altus Exports to navigate the complexities of international trade and establish a strong global presence. By embracing such collaborations, small entrepreneurs can transcend local markets and thrive on the global stage.