By Admin. Updated 8:50 a.m., Thursday, July 10, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
Since its establishment, the National Development Foundation (NDF) has disbursed over 28 million dollars to assist more than 7,000 entrepreneurs throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).
Mrs Beverley Thompson, Executive Director of the NDF, revealed this information during a recent exclusive interview with One News SVG.
Mrs Thompson stated that the not-for-profit non-governmental organisation, founded in 1983, has made “a great deal” of progress in supporting micro-entrepreneurs in SVG.
“Our services include loans, training, technical assistance, and general business counselling and guidance. Since 1983, the NDF has supported no fewer than 7,000 enterprises with microloans, and many more through training, as some individuals have received training and business support without necessarily requiring loans,” Mrs Thompson explained.
“They may have received grants and simply needed to enhance their business through training and knowledge. The NDF has been providing this support and continues to do so,” she added.
The Executive Director noted that, cumulatively, over 28 million dollars have been allocated in microfinance to small entrepreneurs since 1983. This equates to an average of more than 666,660 dollars disbursed annually over the Foundation’s 42 years of operation.
She also highlighted that the NDF delivers training to Vincentians on behalf of prominent regional organisations.
“We are also the coordinating agency for the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and its training arm, CTCS. Over the years, we have provided national training in St. Vincent and the Grenadines on behalf of the CDB,” Mrs Thompson said.
Additionally, she described the application process for small businesses and entrepreneurs seeking loans from the NDF and offered advice to prospective borrowers.
“My message would be, firstly, to maintain proper records. Recordkeeping is very important as it helps us understand how profitable the business is and how you are managing your finances. Even if you are just starting out, begin simply by keeping a record of your income and expenses. You can then build on this gradually,” she advised.
“We also offer financial literacy training if required, to help you better track your business spending. Furthermore, if you are unsure about your business needs, you can consult our officers who will guide you in assessing your business’s current status and potential.”
“Most people know what they want; it is just a matter of putting it into perspective. You should obtain estimates if you plan to expand a workshop or physical facility. Then, make an appointment with us—either by telephone, social media platforms such as Facebook or WhatsApp, or via our website. Someone will respond and arrange a meeting. We will then discuss your needs and explore how we can collaborate to support you,” Mrs Thompson added.
Located at White Chapel Road in Kingstown, the NDF can be reached at 1 784 457-2646, via email at info@ndfsvg.org, via WhatsApp at 1 784 494-2510, or via their website at https://www.ndfavg.org
For more information about the NDF, how it is funded, and its current offerings, stay tuned for the publication of our upcoming video interview.
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One News SVG 