More Than 300 Nationals Capitalise on Fresh Start Programme

(ZIZ News) – It is being reported that hundreds of nationals are flocking to the Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis to capitalise on the Fresh Start Programme that was rolled out in St. Kitts and Nevis a few weeks ago.

The country’s Prime Minister and Minister responsible for Finance, Hon. Dr. Timothy Harris said, on Tuesday, that the support so far has been overwhelming.

“I am pleased to report that so far, over 300 persons have applied for this easy business loan,” Dr. Harris reported.

“EC$1.5 million has already been disbursed. Another 58 have successfully been interviewed for loan financing totalling $6.9 million and a further 217 applications are awaiting the final determination,” he added.

Just last week, the Development Bank’s General Manager, Lenworth Harris, gave an update on the application process and encouraged budding entrepreneurs to take advantage of the programme which is worth EC$13 million.

He said, “Whatever business idea that you have, the door is now open and people are rushing through the door and we in Number Seven and throughout the country, but I’m here specifically, need to make the most of this opportunity.”

As part of the Fresh Start Programme, local entrepreneurs are given the opportunity to capitalise on their business ideas through a special fund that has been set up at the Development Bank, courtesy of the partnership between the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis.