Entrepreneurship is for Everyone: BYBT Celebrates 30 Years of Supporting Entrepreneurs during Global Entrepreneurship Week 2024

Entrepreneurship is for Everyone: BYBT Celebrates 30 Years of Supporting Entrepreneurs during Global Entrepreneurship Week 2024

Barbados – November 14, 2024 – 

BYBT,  celebrating 30 years of fostering entrepreneurial development in Barbados, is thrilled to mark Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) from November 18-24, 2024. As the National Host of GEW, BYBT will showcase two signature events: Business Over Breakfast, and the Pitching for Progress competition. This year’s global theme, "Entrepreneurship is for Everyone," will inspire and encourage individuals across the island and the world to explore entrepreneurship.

Barbados will focus on the theme "Entrepreneurship for Sustainability and Economic Growth," emphasising the vital role of entrepreneurship in fostering long-term businesses and economic progress. Events throughout the week will highlight the importance of sustainability and community well-being in building a resilient future for the island.

Since its inception in 2008, BYBT has partnered with the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) and local partners to host GEW annually. Over the past 16 years, GEW has celebrated innovators who bring ideas to life, drive economic growth, and enhance human welfare. This worldwide movement spans 180 countries, including Barbados, and engages millions in activities that foster connections with partners, mentors, and investors.

As part of BYBT’s 30th-anniversary celebrations, BYBT will continue its legacy of empowering individuals through entrepreneurship. Here's what to expect during GEW 2024:

Business Over Breakfast – November 19, 2024, Radisson Aquatica Resort:
This exciting session is designed for current and aspiring entrepreneurs to hear from business experts and specialists who will share their experiences and offer actionable strategies for success. The breakfast will feature top professionals revealing the secrets behind their sustainable business success and how these strategies contribute to the island’s economic growth. Attendees will gain insights into how to navigate entrepreneurship in Barbados’ evolving business landscape.

Pitching for Progress Finals – November 22, 2024:
This entrepreneurial competition invites senior secondary school students to address pressing challenges in Barbados by developing innovative business solutions. The students pitch their ideas during the finals to win funding and mentorship, empowering them to bring their solutions to life. The competition celebrates youth entrepreneurship and highlights the next generation of problem-solvers and change-makers.

A Global Movement Empowering Entrepreneurs Everywhere
Global Entrepreneurship Week is an international movement, organised by the Global Entrepreneurship Network and powered by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, with support from strategic partners. The celebration empowers entrepreneurs in every country and community, including those who face structural barriers or have never considered entrepreneurship as a viable opportunity.

Every November, GEW engages 10 million people in tens of thousands of activities, competitions, and events across 180 countries. These initiatives inspire and equip participants with the knowledge, experience, and connections they need to succeed.

BYBT’s Commitment to Entrepreneurship in Barbados
BYBT (formerly the Barbados Youth Business Trust) has been in entrepreneurial development for 30 years, empowering individuals to explore entrepreneurship as a viable career option. BYBT nurtures the entrepreneurial spirit by offering training, mentoring, and business support services that prepare entrepreneurs for sustainable success. BYBT is proud to have played a significant role in the national entrepreneurship ecosystem, helping thousands of entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life.

For a complete list of events and participating organisations, or to learn more about Global Entrepreneurship Week, visit www.gew.co. Join the conversation online using #GEW2024 and #EntrepreneurshipisforEveryone.

About BYBT:
BYBT is a registered charity committed to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in Barbados. Through holistic programmes, BYBT empowers individuals to choose entrepreneurship as a viable career option by offering training, mentoring, and business support services. Celebrating 30 years of success, BYBT continues to nourish the next generation of global entrepreneurs.

Mission Statement:
“We are a people development entity using a holistic approach that incorporates training programs, mentoring, and business support services to prepare individuals for ongoing success personally and professionally.”

Vision Statement:
“To be an innovative development organisation with a reliable customer-centric approach, the first choice for providing high-quality products and services that nurture successful global entrepreneurs.”