Business Services

Technical Assistance

• The development of products design
• The development of package and label designs
• The provision of assistance in the development and maintenance of quality control
• The provision of assistance to businesses seeking to participate in overseas trade shows
• The preparation of business plans to facilitate the initial financing and management of the business
• The financing of feasibility studies relating to the development of new businesses or products
• The provision of assistance in managerial, accounting or budgetary analysis; or
• The provision of assistance in general or production management

Local Business Directory

In an effort to create an enhanced local business environment, the Antigua and Barbuda Investment Authority through the Enterprise Development Department has engaged in the production of a Local Business Directory. The general aim of the Directory is to provide a means through which current and potential investors can identify their business partners thereby building entrepreneurial capacity necessary for local operations to develop.

Primarily, the Directory provides a comprehensive listing of all businesses operating in the country. Consumers are thereby afforded an expanded selection of enterprises from which to secure goods and services. However, the Local Business Directory intends to serve several additional functions.

Firstly, it will provide current and potential investors with an idea of their competitors and business partners. Current and potential business owners will be able to assess the market and therefore make informed decisions on expansion or market entry. Additionally evidence of potential business niche opportunities will become evident through this medium.

Secondly, the Directory will guide individuals through the process of starting and operating a business in Antigua and Barbuda. It will also identify the private and government-owned stakeholders which support successful business operations.

Thirdly, the Directory will act as a marketing device since businesses will be afforded the opportunity to advertise within its pages. Businesses can therefore promote their unique product and service offerings as the service listing will be offered free.

Additionally, the Directory and the related data collected during its compilation also provide the Authority with verifiable data on business spread and concentration. This will be used to assist in the formulation of relevant technical assistance programs to the small and micro business sectors.

The Directory will be available in hard copy and online in 2009.