Small Business Expo Celebrates Record-Breaking Success
2024 Small Business Expo Celebrates Major Success with Over 600 Attendees
Converging at the Future-Forward Event Inspiring Local Innovation and Global Ambitions
The 2024 Small Business Expo, hosted by the Cayman Islands Centre for Business Development (CICBD) and the Ministry of Investment, Innovation, and Social Development (MIISD), was a resounding success. A record-breaking 600+ attendees gathered at Hotel Indigo on October 3rd for a day filled with innovation, networking, and valuable insights. The theme, “Linking Local, Going Global: A Future-Forward Expo,” highlighted the vital role small businesses play in Cayman’s economic future and their potential to thrive on the global stage.
This year’s Expo offered a rich array of workshops and panels covering topics such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, E-Commerce, Storytelling & Branding, and Youth Entrepreneurship, empowering local entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge needed to grow and succeed. From seasoned business owners to aspiring youth entrepreneurs, participants left inspired and ready to take their businesses to new heights.
Hon. Katherine Ebanks-Wilks offered Welcome Remarks while acting as Deputy Premier for Minister of Investment, Innovation and Social Development for Hon. André Ebanks, expressing the strategy behind the Ministry’s goals, “This Expo, along with the dedicated work of the Cayman Islands Centre for Business Development (CICBD), demonstrates how investing in innovation and small businesses directly fosters positive social development. Through the wide range of programmes offered by CICBD, we are equipping individuals with the tools, resources, and knowledge to transform their ideas into thriving businesses that enrich our community."
Chief Officer for MIISD, Tamara Ebanks, expressed her excitement about the success of the event, saying,
"The turnout this year speaks volumes about the enthusiasm for entrepreneurship in the Cayman Islands. Events like the Small Business Expo are key to driving innovation, creating jobs, and ensuring a thriving, sustainable future for our economy. By connecting local talent with global opportunities, we are setting a strong foundation for Cayman’s future growth."
A Farewell and New Leadership at CICBD
This year’s Expo also marked an important transition for the CICBD as we bid a heartfelt farewell to Althea West-Myers, who has served as Director since its inception. Under her leadership, CICBD has grown into a vital institution that provides entrepreneurs with the resources and support they need to succeed.
Reflecting on her time at CICBD, Althea West-Myers said,
"It has been an incredible journey leading the CICBD and watching it grow into a hub for innovation and business development in Cayman. I am deeply grateful for the support of the community, the Ministry, and our amazing team. While it’s bittersweet to move on, I am confident that CICBD will continue to flourish under its new leadership and help even more entrepreneurs achieve their dreams."
Taking over as the new Director of CICBD is Thais Ducent, who brings a fresh perspective and deep passion for business development. She shared her excitement for the future:
"I am honoured to step into this role and continue the remarkable work Althea has led. CICBD is more than just a resource center—it’s a cornerstone of our community’s growth. I look forward to working with our incredible team to empower more entrepreneurs, foster innovation, and drive the Cayman Islands toward a bright, resilient future."
Acknowledging Our Supporters
This successful event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, including Compass Media, CIBC, Department of Tourism, Ministry of Youth Sports & Heritage, CIDB, Cayman National, and Enterprise Cayman. A special thank you also goes to the dedicated CICBD team, the staff at Hotel Indigo, and all the speakers and panelists who brought invaluable expertise to the Expo. Your contributions helped make this event truly impactful.
To all who attended, thank you for being part of this transformative experience. Your engagement and passion are what make events like these successful. We would love to hear your feedback to continue improving and delivering value in the future.
Click HERE to share your thoughts and help us shape the next CICBD Small Business Expo!
