A key component of the SBA’s 23rd Annual General Meeting was the celebration of several stalwarts through the presentation of a number of Independence Awards.

The recognition of key contributors to the SBA’s development in particular and the small business sector in general, formed part of the Association’s commemoration of Barbados’ 50th year of Independence. The men and women who received the Independence accolades have all worked tirelessly and fearlessly during the past five decades to position the small business sector as a significant contributor to economic and social development. These nation builders understood the need for enabling legislation, accessible financing, and appropriate technical support to facilitate MSMEs’ role in the national development process.

The records reflect that on account of their contribution, the small business sector has seen the introduction of a Small Business Development Act, seed funding at concessionary rates, the introduction of venture capital, training in entrepreneurial development, guarantee schemes and an embracing attitude by policymakers, academics, the donor community and the general public to MSME develop. The small business ecosystem has been strengthened due in no small way to the foundational work of these stalwarts.

The special Independence Awards were conferred upon recipients as follows:
Longstanding Members - Golden Sands Hotel, Exstrawdinary, The Travel House, Clemo Electrical Services and Southern Rentals.
Leadership Awards were presented to Senator John Watson - Founding President, Wendell Clarke, Sandra Husbands and Wendell Kellman
Outstanding Entrepreneur - Mohammed Nassar, Rawle Brancker, Ram Mirchandani and James Husbands.
Ministry Partnership Award was presented to the Ministry of Industry, International Business, Commerce and Small Business Development.

Above, Mr Watson, founding member of the Small Business Association, addressing those in attendance.