PRESS RELEASE

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands — Invest Turks and Caicos Islands Agency (Invest TCI) successfully hosted its 3rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) on September 17th, 2024, at The Ritz Carlton, Turks and Caicos, under the theme “Building Bridges to Accelerate Economic Growth: The Invest TCI Impact.” The meeting provided a comprehensive overview of Invest TCI’s transformative progress during FY 2023-2024, highlighting the agency’s strides in linking foreign investments with local small businesses to drive economic growth and resilience.

The AGM was called to order by the Chairlady of Invest TCI, Ms. Cindy Ewing, who opened with a compelling reflection on the agency’s achievements. In her address, she remarked, “Invest Turks and Caicos has made significant strides in economic development, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship. Thanks to your steadfast support and collaboration, this has not only set the stage for sustainable growth but also ensures that our impact is felt where it matters most: in the lives of our people.”

The evening continued with remarks from the Premier, Hon. Charles Washington Misick, Minister of Finance, Investment, Trade, and Public Policy. Premier Misick emphasized Invest TCI’s transformation, stating, “Invest TCI is more than an investment promotion agency; it is a multifaceted engine of growth that will impact our communities. Today, we see Invest TCI not only as a promoter of inward investment but also as a catalyst for domestic investment.”

CEO of Invest TCI, Mrs. Angela Musgrove, provided an overview of the agency’s achievements, focusing on sustainable development, entrepreneurship, and investment growth. She highlighted the launch of the Direct Domestic Investment (DDI) Policy and discussed the ongoing development of the National Linkages Program, which will integrate local MSMEs into Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) supply chains, promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

Mrs. Musgrove concluded her presentation by stating, “FY 2023-2024 has been a year of transformative progress for Invest TCI. Through strategic investments and robust support for local businesses, we have laid the foundation for long-term growth, economic resilience, and community prosperity. As we look to the future, we remain committed to driving sustainable economic growth, fostering innovation, and ensuring that TCI continues to thrive as a world-class investment destination.”

The meeting captivated attendees with a compelling video showcasing the powerful impact of partnerships between local businesses and larger enterprises. The video featured the collaboration between Mr. Kitchener Penn, owner of the TCI Junkanoo Museum and founder of We Funk Junkanoo, and Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort, represented by Managing Director Mr. James McAnally. It emphasized the mutual benefits of these collaborations and encouraged other large enterprises to follow suit.

A significant highlight of the AGM was the insightful panel discussion titled “Bridging the Gap: Linking Small Businesses with Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).” Moderated by Ms. Alexa Cooper, VP of SME, the panel explored the critical role of FDI in economic development, focusing on integrating local small businesses into FDI-driven projects. Distinguished panelists included Ms. Ayiesha Sammy, Director of Trade, Industry and Fair Competition; Mr. Matt McDonald, Managing Director and CEO of Vista Development; Mr. Michael Tibbetts, Managing Director of Salterra Resort and Spa; Ms. Arlene Hall, Owner of Island Organics TCI; and Ms. Lavern Reynolds, Owner of TCI Dolls.

The AGM added an extra element of excitement with a raffle for attendees, featuring prizes such as a Ritz Carlton dinner voucher for two and a gift certificate from Do It Centre.

In addition to the raffle, Invest TCI honored outstanding team members who exemplified the agency’s core values. Honourees included Mrs. Anissa Adderley, Ms. Judith Garland, Ms. Shevon Williams, Ms. Kayanna Seymour, and Ms. Marzena Hinson. Special recognition was also given to Mr. Salik Garland for his five years of dedicated service to the agency.

The meeting wrapped up on a high note with closing remarks from Invest TCI board member, Ms. Yaa McCartney. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders for their ongoing support and collaboration, acknowledging the collective effort in driving success. Ms. McCartney also took a moment to commend the Invest TCI team for their unwavering dedication and hard work, highlighting their crucial role in pushing the agency’s mission forward.

The AGM successfully brought together key stakeholders, including government officials such as Hon. Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Human Services; Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Public Safety and Utilities; Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture; and Hon. Josephine Connolly, Minister of Tourism, Environment, Heritage, Fisheries, Agriculture, Gaming and Religious Affairs.

The meeting also welcomed other government figures, heads of statutory bodies, developers, MSME recipients, and other key partners, providing a platform to explore new opportunities, foster meaningful connections, and drive sustainable, resilient economic growth within the Turks and Caicos Islands.