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Governor John P. de Jongh, Jr. has proclaimed May 16-20, 2011 as “Small Business Week” in the U.S. Virgin Islands, during which time we honor entrepreneurs and small business owners, as well as their overall efforts to bring increased economic opportunity to the territory.
Small business owners are the engine of our economy and play a vital role in ensuring that America remains the economic leader of the world. Every day, our nation’s small businesses help enhance the lives of our citizens and lead the way in an economy historically distinguished by innovative job creation and entrepreneurship .
Small businesses are the lifeblood of our islands, and we salute small business owners, entrepreneurs and their dedicated employees for enhancing our communities and expanding opportunities for all. The hard work and ingenuity of our islands’ small business men and women are helping to sustain this territory’s economic strength and prosperity.
During this designated week, the V.I. Economic Development Authority will highlight their various loan programs available to businesses. Various radio and television interviews are scheduled to provide information to the general public on the services offered by its Lending Unit, encouraging entrepreneurship efforts and the development of small businesses in the territory. Topics will also include criteria for applying for the various loans, details on the overall loan process and other available assistance. To date and as testament to the Authority’s commitment to small business, for Fiscal Year 2011, nineteen loans were approved in the amount of $1,688,857 and six construction bonds were approved in the amount of $761,907.
The Governor encourages those with a passion and interest in business ownership to explore the opportunities available through the V.I. EDA and to pursue entrepreneurship as an avenue to personal growth, economic advancement, and financial success.
Governor de Jongh calls upon the people of the territory to join him in observing Small Business Week by celebrating the accomplishments of small business owners and their employees, and by encouraging the development of new small businesses in the Virgin Islands.
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