DYBT -20 YEARS OF YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP
By Sen. Hon. Phillip Rolle, Director, Dominica Youth Business Trust
As the Dominica Youth Business Trust (DYBT) marks its 20th anniversary under the theme “Innovate, Elevate, Celebrate: 20 Years of Youth Entrepreneurship,” we reflect on two decades of remarkable achievements and impactful initiatives.
Established in May 2004, the DYBT emerged as a collaborative effort between the Commonwealth Youth Programme, Caribbean Centre (CYPCC), and the Government of Dominica. Since its inception, DYBT has been dedicated to fostering the entrepreneurial spirit among young individuals aged 18-35 who aspire to establish or develop micro or small businesses.
Over the years, DYBT has become a cornerstone of youth entrepreneurship in Dominica, providing access to financial, technical, and social assistance to budding entrepreneurs. Through its comprehensive package of services, including business training, loan guarantee facility, mentorship program, and business plan support, DYBT has empowered countless youth to realize their entrepreneurial potential and contribute to the growth and development of the national economy.
McChris Morancie, the 2020 winner of the DYBT’s Business Plan Innovation Award is the owner of Generation Honey. He is pictured smoking the bees to calm them while working around his hive in Citronier.
The Trust’s achievements are a testament to its commitment to excellence and innovation. In January 2009, DYBT joined the esteemed Youth Business International (YBI) network, solidifying its position as a leader in youth entrepreneurship development. Since then, DYBT has trained over 1500 Dominican youth in entrepreneurship and is also recognized by Global Entrepreneurship Network as the official host of Global Entrepreneurship Week in Dominica. The Trust remains grateful to the Government of Dominica, particularly Prime Minister Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit, for the unwavering support, investing millions of dollars into the programme since its inception.
Notably, DYBT has nurtured many household names in the local business space, including Daily Fresh, Big G’s Pepper Sauce, Allorzee Business Ventures Inc. (Instant Cocoa), Cookies by Rose, Mr. King’s Punches, and We Planet Inc. Moreover, the Trust has spearheaded initiatives such as the Social Enterprise Incubator, which has paved the way for businesses that not only seek profit but also aim to address social challenges in their communities.
Mrs. Althia Joy Watty owns Joyful Designs Plus in Roseau, a garment manufacturing enterprise, offering sewing training to young women.
With a current loan portfolio exceeding $500,000, DYBT continues to provide vital financial support to aspiring entrepreneurs. Additionally, the Trust remains at the forefront of innovation, introducing programs such as “AI Tools for Business” to equip young entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.
As we celebrate 20 years of empowering youth entrepreneurs, DYBT looks forward to continuing its mission of fostering innovation, driving economic growth, and building a brighter future for Dominica. Together, let us innovate, elevate, and celebrate the remarkable achievements of youth entrepreneurship in Dominica.
