FundAccess, UWI CAGRI celebrate graduates

FundAccess, in partnership with The University of the West Indies’ Centre for Agricultural Research and Innovation (UWI CAGRI), recently celebrated the successful completion of the Broiler and Layer Management Workshops, under the Agri- Grow Enterprise Development Programme.

A combined closing ceremony was held recently at The UWI, Cave Hill Campus, where 22 participants received Certificates of Achievement in recognition of their commitment and successful completion of the workshops.

The workshops commenced in June 2026 and were designed to equip aspiring and existing agricultural entrepreneurs with the technical knowledge, practical skills and business insight required to establish and manage viable poultry enterprises.

Under the tutelage of Dr Michele Singh, participants received instruction in the management of broilers and layers, poultry housing, feeding, production planning, animal health and other important aspects of poultry production. The workshops also incorporated practical activities, including the construction of battery cages, which allowed participants to apply the knowledge gained in the classroom while developing their teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Recognising that technical knowledge alone is not enough to ensure the success of an agricultural enterprise, participants also received training in Agri-Business Foundations, such as financial record keeping, market-readiness, compliance and governance.

These sessions were facilitated by Jonathan Seecharan of Caribbean Export and encouraged participants to approach farming as a structured, market-driven and sustainable business.

During the closing ceremony, FundAccess Project Development Officer, Tristan Lowe, delivered a presentation on its products and services, highlighting the financing, technical assistance and business-development support available to persons seeking to establish or expand their enterprises.

Business Development Officer and Agri- Grow Project Lead, Jillisia Mayers, spoke about the significance of the initiative.

Mayers stated: “Agri-Grow was developed not simply to train farmers but to help develop agricultural entrepreneurs.

By combining technical instruction with practical experience, sound business principles and information on financing, participants are better positioned to transform agricultural opportunities into viable and sustainable enterprises.”

The programme reflects FundAccess’ commitment to developing agricultural entrepreneurs by combining UWI CAGRI’s technical expertise with FundAccess’ enterprise-development and financial support services. While the ceremony marked the completion of the Broiler and Layer Management Workshops, the wider Agri-Grow Programme will continue with Crop Production, commencing on August 13, followed by Sheep Production on September 15, and Pig Production on October 21.

Through these workshops, FundAccess and UWI CAGRI will continue to invest in the development of viable agricultural businesses that can create employment, strengthen local food production and contribute to Barbados’ economic development and food security.

(FundAccess)