Business Connectivity, Technology in the spotlight for Small Business Week Barbados Today20/09/20230365 views From left: Damian Mascoll, Marketing Manager, Flow Business; Dr Lynette Holder, Chief Executive Officer, Small Business Association of Barbados; Charles Carter, 1st Vice Chairman, Small Business Association of Barbados; and Marilyn Sealy, Senior Director, Head of Communications, C&W Communications. Leading telecoms provider Flow Business is continuing its focus on empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs with digital solutions, dedicated support, and the greatest possible value for their connectivity needs. The company has also renewed its support as title sponsor for Small Business Week, as the Small Business Association of Barbados (SBA) hosts annual celebrations between September 24 and 29 under the theme Facilitating a Transformative Agenda that is Fit for Purpose. “As a nation with a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and a rich cultural heritage, Barbados is poised to leap forward by further embracing the power of seamless and efficient connectivity,” said Marilyn Sealy, Senior Director, Head of Communications, C&W Communications. “Small businesses are the heart and soul of any economy, driving job creation, innovation, and community development. For us in Barbados, these enterprises are not just contributors to the economy, but embodiments of our island’s unique identity, however, we are keenly aware that these businesses often grapple with challenges that hinder their potential for growth.” Sealy delivered the feature address at the recent launch of Small Business Week at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre. Activities this year include a church service (September 24), youth forums, networking events, the Leo Leacock Memorial Lecture (September 26), and the SBA’s annual general meeting (September 28) and awards ceremony (September 29). “From our perspective as Barbados’ leading telecommunications provider, we believe that incorporating connectivity at the core of Facilitating a Transformative Agenda that is Fit for Purpose will help to reshape the destiny of small businesses in our beloved nation,” added Sealy. “Connectivity acts as a transformative catalyst that can reshape the landscape for small businesses. By providing them with the tools and resources to thrive in the digital era, we are empowering them to reach beyond their physical boundaries and tap into a world of new opportunities.” Sealy also paid tribute to the important work of the SBA and called for increased private-public partnerships to help further support the critical small business sector. “We are committed to working closely with government, industry partners, and community organisations to help bridge the digital divide, ensuring that no small business is left behind. By embracing connectivity, small businesses can transcend geographical limitations, access global markets, collaborate on a global scale, and innovate to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world,” she said. “The landscape for small businesses in Barbados is on the brink of a profound shift. Connectivity is not just a technological advancement but a force that can redefine the fortunes of our entrepreneurs. It is a thread that weaves success, innovation, and prosperity.” (PR)