What would normally be a day of running between offices for permits, tax numbers and registration became a single stop for entrepreneurs in Region Five, where a recent Business Clinic brought key services together and helped small business owners formalise and strengthen their operations.
The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce hosted the event, which participants described as a “one-stop” format that reduced the need to move between different agencies and provided practical guidance on registration, taxation and financing, particularly for small and emerging enterprises.
Participant Devi Dindial said the clinic offered useful support for small contractors and business owners, highlighting its value for enterprises such as her husband’s construction business.
“I’m encouraging all small contractors to come to the Small Business Bureau, get your business registered, and you can access loans once you have your credentials, your TIN, your business registration, and all the necessary documents,” Dindial said. “I think it’s a good initiative.”
Donetta Simdanni, a small entrepreneur, said she welcomed the opportunity to complete multiple processes in a single setting.
“I feel very good about it. Even though I learned about it at the last moment, it gave me the chance and opportunity to come out and get everything done under one tent,” she said.
She added that the arrangement was particularly helpful given her schedule.
“I thank the ministry and the government for this because it saves me from going from one place to the next place, and this is very good. I took time off to come and get everything done in one place,” she noted.
Sherlyn Roberts, who operates a small business selling groceries, clothing and equipment, said the clinic was uplifting and helped her better understand tax and licensing requirements.
“I feel great. I feel good. I think everyone feels a little more lifted today because what you hear from each person encourages you to move forward and do better in business,” she said. “It helps you to improve yourself and also do better things in the community,” she added.
The feedback from entrepreneurs highlights growing demand for accessible support services for small businesses, as the government continues efforts to expand formalisation and strengthen local enterprise development
