160 Entrepreneurs Graduate from BATT Start Up Programme, Setting the Stage for Economic Growth
By Shweta Sharma
Date: August 19, 2025
In a significant show of ambition and achievement, 161 aspiring entrepreneurs celebrated their graduation from the Bankers Association of Trinidad and Tobago (BATT) Start Up programme on August 17. The ceremony, held at the Centre of Excellence in Macoya, showcased a transformation from ideation to implementation for these individuals, bringing them one step closer to realizing their dreams.
BATT’s six-week programme is crafted to equip participants with essential entrepreneurial skills and knowledge necessary to launch and sustain small and micro-enterprises. Graduates received training in various vital areas, including business plan development, marketing strategies, and the use of digital tools.
Delivering the feature address, Sonji Pierre-Chase, president of the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber, emphasized the programme’s significance, urging graduates to not only dream but to take actionable steps toward building their aspirations. "Dream boldly, even when others doubt you. Plan wisely, even if it means constantly re-strategising. And most of all, build persistently, even when your goals seem unattainable," she stated.
This sentiment aligns with biblical principles that advocate for perseverance and faith in one’s purpose. As Philippians 4:13 teaches, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This verse serves as a reminder that, with conviction and effort, overcoming challenges is within reach when Jesus is at the center of one’s journey.
Gayle Pazos, BATT’s immediate past president, highlighted the critical role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in national development. SMEs represent approximately 25,000 businesses across Trinidad and Tobago, contributing nearly 30% of the GDP. Graduates are encouraged to embrace adaptability and innovation, which are essential traits for a thriving entrepreneurship landscape.
Kelly Bute-Seaton, BATT’s executive director, revealed the programme’s growth since its launch in Tobago in 2022, noting it had surged from 80 participants to 161 in just three years, highlighting an overwhelming demand for structured business support. Notably, 80% of participants were women, signaling a growing wave of female entrepreneurship.
“More than 54% of the participants had already launched businesses, illustrating a remarkable shift from thought to action,” Bute-Seaton remarked, indicating that these graduates are already initiating their journeys toward economic empowerment.
The graduation not only marks a new beginning for these entrepreneurs but reflects a broader call to action. As Pierre-Chase encouraged, those who venture into entrepreneurship today contribute to building a future for their communities.
In closing, consider this empowering thought: through dedication and faith, we can manifest our dreams into reality. As you reflect on this milestone, remember that each step taken in faith has the potential to create ripples of change in the world around you.
“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
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