GREAT BAY--The St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry (COCI) officially launched its Start Smart Entrepreneur Development Programme on Tuesday, August 4, at the Small Business Academy, marking the official start of one of the Chamber’s flagship entrepreneurial development initiatives. A total of 72 aspiring entrepreneurs has enrolled in the programme and have been divided into two cohorts due to the overwhelming response.
The 10 to 12-week programme, which runs through October 2026, reflects the Chamber’s continued commitment to empowering entrepreneurs, strengthening small businesses, and fostering sustainable economic growth throughout St. Maarten. The first cohort officially commenced classes on August 4, with the second cohort scheduled to begin later this week.
The official opening was led by Vice President Anastacio Baker, Board Member Nzinga Lake, and Project Lead and Board Member Franjesca Bulbaai, who welcomed participants and reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to investing in local talent and building a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The programme officially commenced with its opening session, “Introduction to the Entrepreneur,” facilitated by Mr. Damien Schmidt, who challenged participants to embrace the entrepreneurial mindset while laying the foundation for the weeks ahead. Through practical discussions and real-world insights, participants were encouraged to think strategically, identify opportunities, and develop the resilience, discipline, and leadership qualities required to build successful businesses.
Over the coming weeks, participants will receive comprehensive instruction in business planning, financial management, marketing, customer service, business operations, legal compliance, and other essential entrepreneurial competencies designed to help transform business ideas into viable and sustainable enterprises.
The 72 participants represent a diverse cross-section of St. Maarten’s entrepreneurial community, with business concepts spanning automotive services, hospitality accommodations, healthcare support, business administration, special needs services, marketing and communications, culinary arts, event planning, VIP transportation, housekeeping and maintenance, bar services, and several other emerging industries.
This diversity reflects the island’s growing entrepreneurial spirit and highlights the increasing demand for practical business education and mentorship.
Speaking at the launch, Vice President Anastacio Baker underscored the Chamber’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship as a driver of national development.
“Entrepreneurs are the backbone of a resilient economy. Through Start Smart, we are investing in people with vision, determination and the courage to create opportunities—not only for themselves, but for our entire community. Every successful business begins with a single step, and today those steps have officially begun.”
Project Lead and Board Member Franjesca Bulbaai described the programme as a strategic investment in St. Maarten’s future.
“Start Smart is more than a business training programme. It is an investment in dreams, innovation and economic resilience. By equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with practical knowledge, mentorship, and confidence, we are preparing the next generation of business leaders who will contribute to the continued growth and prosperity of St. Maarten.”
Board Member Nzinga Lake encouraged participants to seize every opportunity presented throughout the programme.
“The willingness to learn is one of the greatest strengths an entrepreneur can possess. We encourage every participant to remain engaged, collaborate with one another, and make the most of this transformative experience. The knowledge you gain today will become the foundation of tomorrow’s success.”
Participants who successfully complete the programme will be recognized during a Certification Ceremony in October 2026, celebrating their commitment to entrepreneurship and business excellence.
The Start Smart Entrepreneur Development Programme, delivered through the Small Business Academy, is a cornerstone of the Chamber’s mission to cultivate innovation, stimulate economic diversification, and strengthen the private sector.
By investing in entrepreneurs across a broad range of industries, the Chamber continues to create opportunities that foster business success, generate employment, and contribute to a stronger and more resilient St. Maarten.
As 72 aspiring entrepreneurs embark on this transformative journey, the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry proudly reaffirms its commitment to empowering local talent, fostering innovation, and building a prosperous future—one entrepreneur, one business, and one opportunity at a time.
