Huntums Ghut Entrepreneurial Zone and Business Incubator
The Virgin Islands' first Entrepreneurial Zone and business incubator has officially opened in Huntums Ghut, Tortola, handing over keys to eight local business owners. The initiative provides affordable, air-conditioned commercial units and comprehensive mentorship from the Department of Trade to help emerging enterprises build long-term sustainability.
The Territory's first Entrepreneurial Zone and business incubator has officially opened in Huntums Ghut, Tortola, marking a major milestone for micro, small, and medium-sized business development across the Virgin Islands. During a ceremony held on Friday, September 11, eight local entrepreneurs officially received the keys to their commercial units, forming the inaugural cohort approved to operate from the facility.
The incubator is designed to provide affordable commercial space alongside structured business development support for start-ups and growing enterprises. The initiative represents a joint collaboration between the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation, the Department of Trade, Investment Promotion and Consumer Affairs, and the Ministry of Communications and Works, which constructed the facility.
Fifth District Representative and Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer, championed the project to stimulate grassroots commerce and empower local business talent. The newly completed building features air-conditioned, glass-fronted units of various sizes.
While nine businesses were approved for occupancy, eight owners attended the handover to receive their keys. The first cohort includes Niasha Benjaman of Fiesta Gifts & Event Supplies, Rudolph Lewis of Lifeline Transport Services, Darwin R. Scatliffe of Caribbean Corner Market, Khadija Sampson of Smart & Glam Braider, Reanyke Garraway of Island Suppliers 284, Shamahnea Simmons of Eclipse Gloss, Akeem Legair of Fragrance Oasis VI, Alisma Wheatley, and Lisa Smith of Suds N Tings.
To secure placement, applicants underwent a rigorous vetting process requiring detailed business plans that demonstrated viable concepts, revenue generation models, and long-term expansion strategies. Selected tenants will operate from the incubator for two to four years before graduating into the wider commercial market.
Throughout their tenancy, the Department of Trade will deliver hands-on mentorship and training. Bobb emphasized that the department will work closely with each tenant through every phase so they emerge as fully independent, self-sustaining businesses. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation, Natalie Fahie-Smith, added that the facility serves as a wider investment in the Territory's economic future, urging entrepreneurs to use the opportunity as a catalyst for sustainable growth.
Junior Minister for Financial Services and Economic Development Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE, clarified that while located in Huntums Ghut, the incubator is open to qualifying entrepreneurs territory-wide. She noted the zone aligns with wider economic initiatives, including entrepreneurship training and MSME grants, while sharing her personal pride in seeing her childhood community host the pioneering hub.
Government officials confirmed that the Huntums Ghut facility is the first of two buildings planned for the site, with several spaces in the current building still to be allocated. The Government also intends to establish similar entrepreneurial zones in other communities across the Virgin Islands.
Primary source: VINO