TCI News

Invest TCI Celebrates a Decade of Innovation and Impact

Published

2 months ago

July 25, 2025

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 25th July 2025: As the investment landscape of the Turks and Caicos Islands has transformed over the past decade, so too has the role of Invest TCI. Now marking ten years of service, the Agency has helped shape a more inclusive and resilient economy — facilitating over $1.2 billion in investment and supporting hundreds of local enterprises along the way.

A Decade of Investment and Impact

Over the past decade, Invest TCI has supported over 300 micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) through its MSME Programme. Since the first round of MSME approvals in 2016, the programme has expanded to include sixteen priority areas, creating more opportunities for locals to strengthen and scale their business across a range of industries. The MSME Programme has continued to grow with nationwide outreach initiatives, including island-wide roadshows, playing a vital role in raising awareness of its benefits and offering direct support and guidance to both aspiring and existing entrepreneurs.

In 2023, Invest TCI hosted its first MSME Award Ceremony, recognizing outstanding local entrepreneurs who had demonstrated exceptional resilience and commitment throughout the programme. Further strengthening the programme, in 2024, an impact study was conducted to assess its outcomes, measure its contribution to economic growth, and inform future improvements to better serve local entrepreneurs. Notably, also in 2024, one MSME recipient expanded operations and is now being assessed outside the MSME category, which indicates the impact of the programme in nurturing small businesses into sustainable large-scale enterprises.

Invest TCI continues to play a strategic role in strengthening a favourable business environment for investors and bolstering the FDI ecosystem of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The agency has secured over $1.2 billion in foreign direct investments through executed development agreements, creating more than 1000 direct employment opportunities for locals. As due diligence remains a critical component during the vetting process, Invest TCI remains committed to supporting credible, high-impact developments that align with national development priorities. Over the last ten years, the agency has built relationships with global brands such as Ritz-Carlton, IHG, positioning the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier destination for high-end investment and development. At the same time, the Agency has strengthened ties with renowned local brands, including Grace Bay Club and The Hartling Group; longstanding partners who continue to expand their footprint and contribute significantly to the country’s tourism and real estate landscape.

Recognizing the need to better support a growing and diverse client base, Invest TCI made a strategic decision in 2023 to establish the Business Support Unit to provide dedicated and comprehensive support and training to entrepreneurs and small businesses. As the services offered continued to spread across the country, the agency noticed the need to enhance its presence in Grand Turk. In recent years, small business activity on the island has increased, alongside growing investor interest in Grand Turk’s unique cultural and economic potential.

Global Recognition and Strategic Partnerships

An important element of Invest TCI’s accomplishments contributed to defining the brand and visual identity of the agency. Invest TCI was carefully rebranded in 2017, strengthening the agency’s value proposition to investors. Its unique visual identity has been instrumental in communicating the country’s attractiveness and capturing the attention of international partners.

Invest TCI continues to generate international interest through its active participation in investment–focused international events, and the publication of several thought leadership articles, positioning the Turks and Caicos Islands as a forward-looking, investor-ready destination for investment. This proactive approach has created opportunities for the agency’s team to contribute to international planning committees and assume leadership roles within the global investment promotion community. In 2023, CEO of Invest TCI, Mrs. Angela Musgrove, was appointed as a Director of the Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (CAIPA), a role that strengthens collaboration across the Caribbean, and has increased the visibility of the Turks and Caicos Islands among international investors.

Through strategic partnerships, projects facilitated by the agency have been recognized at the Caribbean Hotel & Resort Investment Summit, now known as ALIS CALA. The agency continues to provide global exposure for its MSMEs, most recently through its partnership with DMZ Canada. This collaboration has created international growth opportunities for entrepreneurs like Ms. Mary Fulford, owner of Island Mystique, who is now exploring new markets and expanding her business reach.

Leveraging Policy and Sustainability

In alignment with global sustainability trends, Invest TCI continues to champion sustainability by exploring further integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into the investment screening and facilitation process.

In addition to its vital role in attracting investments, Invest TCI actively participates in policy advocacy. To date, the agency has contributed to several policy recommendations, including but not limited to the revised National Investment Policy, MSME and Refurbishment Policies, ensuring the policy environment remains aligned with investor needs and national goals.

Looking Ahead

CEO of Invest TCI, Mrs. Angela Musgrove stated “As we mark this decade of service, we do so with gratitude for our partners, pride in our people, and optimism for the future. Our mission remains bold: to catalyze inclusive, sustainable investment that empowers every island and every entrepreneur across the Turks and Caicos.”

To commemorate this milestone, Invest TCI will host a series of events, including a celebratory Annual General Meeting that will convene government leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs to highlight those who have contributed to our economic landscape and explore the next phase of economic opportunities for the islands.

As Invest TCI enters its second decade, its mission remains clear: to drive sustainable investment that benefits the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, builds resilient industries, and strengthens the country’s position on the global investment stage.

Looking ahead, Invest TCI will prioritise a better investor experience through innovative experiences and resources while adopting AI for a seamless process. Invest TCI reaffirms its commitment to continued outreach across the islands to ensure that every community can participate meaningfully in the country’s economic future.

TCI News

103 Migrants Intercepted by U.S. Coast Guard and TCI Agencies

Published

2 weeks ago

September 21, 2025

Deandrea Hamilton

Turks and Caicos, September 21, 2025 – On Sunday, September 21st, 2025, the United States Coast Guard Southeast (USCG), working in coordination with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) Marine Branch, the TCI Regiment, and the TCI Border Force, intercepted a vessel carrying 103 migrants bound for Providenciales.

The suspicious vessel, first tracked by the USCG, was stopped at sea and later secured by the Sea Guardian vessel, which towed it safely to South Dock Marina. Upon arrival, the migrants were disembarked and handed over to the TCI Border Force for processing.

A breakdown of those on board confirmed:

75 males (including two minors)
28 females (including two minors)

This interception marks the 18th such operation in 2025, bringing the total number of migrants detained this year to 1,510. The RT&CIPF thanks the USCG and local agencies for their close cooperation, noting that this successful outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of layered security measures protecting the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Force reminds the public that illegal migration is dangerous and life-threatening, and violations of the law will not be tolerated.

Anyone with information on illegal migration is urged to contact the nearest police station, call 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or via the P3 app.

Photos Courtesy: Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force

TCI News

Invest Turks and Caicos Celebrates a Decade of Innovation and Impact at 4th Annual General Meeting

Published

2 weeks ago

September 19, 2025

Deandrea Hamilton

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – September 19, 2025 – Invest Turks and Caicos Islands Agency (Invest TCI) proudly hosted its 4th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Ritz Carlton, Turks and Caicos, marking a historic milestone, under the theme ‘ Celebrating a Decade of Innovation and Impact’.

The celebratory event brought together government officials, investors, developers, business leaders, and community stakeholders as the agency reflected on ten years of strategic growth and outlined its vision for the next decade.

The meeting was called to order by Chairlady, Ms. Cindy Ewing, who welcomed the full house with energy and gratitude. She acknowledged the partnerships which have fuelled Invest TCI’s success over its first ten years. In her remarks, she stated, ‘This agency was created with a clear purpose, to attract sustainable investment that would strengthen our economy and open new doors for our people’.

The evening continued with a powerful address from Honourable Premier Charles Washington Misick, emphasizing the role of innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development as cornerstones of the country’s future. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for investment, community-driven infrastructure, and balanced growth. Building on that vision, Her Excellency, Acting Governor Anya Williams reflected on how the landscape has shifted from TCI once seeking foreign investors to now being actively pursued. She emphasized that with this new dynamic, growth must remain sustainable, protect the environment, and deliver lasting benefits for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Delivering the agency’s annual performance report, CEO Mrs. Angela Musgrove outlined achievements during the 2024–2025 financial year. These included the first Youth Business Summit, the opening of a new office in Grand Turk, the launch of the Community Pop-Up Series, the approval of the Heritage Turks and Caicos Islander Investment Policy, and advancement of the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Policy. She also reflected on a decade of accomplishments, noting how Invest TCI has expanded its reach, strengthened its impact, and positioned the islands for greater opportunity.

A Ten Years in Review video presentation followed, sparking applause and pride as it highlighted milestones in national development. The film set the stage for an invigorating panel discussion under the theme “The Next Horizon: Catalyzing Economic Development through Investment,” moderated by financial expert Mr. Drexwell Seymour.

The panel featured an extraordinary lineup: Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick, former Premiers Hon. Galmo Williams and Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing, CEO Mrs. Angela Musgrove, and youth leader Ms. Arielle Neely. The discussion highlighted not only the perspectives of national leaders but also the entrepreneurial achievements of the former Premiers, both of whom have successfully built businesses that continue to contribute to the Turks and Caicos economy. The presence of three seasoned leaders alongside Invest TCI’s chief executive and a dynamic youth voice captivated the audience, underscoring both the depth of experience and the promise of the next generation.

The discussion was focused on how investment can power sustainable growth and resilience in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Key themes included sustainable development, innovation and technology, local business competitiveness, youth integration, and public-private collaboration. Panelists emphasized the need for robust legislative frameworks and compliance, while highlighting human capital development as the cornerstone of future progress. Ms. Neely added a compelling youth perspective, calling for measurable inclusion through Youth Impact data and innovative financing models to ensure young people are active stakeholders in shaping the economy.

As part of the anniversary celebration, Invest TCI also launched the Inaugural Developer Awards, created to recognize developers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to inclusive, responsible, and impactful development. The awards spotlighted projects that extended beyond commercial success to deliver meaningful community value.

Two award categories were introduced:

Sustainability Trailblazer: Recognizing developers who lead in building sustainable legacies through infrastructure, cultural preservation, and enduring community partnerships.
Community Impact Award: Honouring developers who have made the most visible social contributions through job creation, training, community programs, and philanthropy.

Submissions showcased initiatives such as recycling and composting programs, eliminating single-use plastics, landscaping with indigenous vegetation, and investments in renewable energy. Many also reflected consistent support for local charities, reinforcing the vision of development that uplifts both the economy and the community.

Nominees included The Hartling Group, Sandals Group (Beaches Turks and Caicos), Grace Bay Resorts, Waterloo Investments Holdings Ltd., and JEM TCI Holdings Ltd. (Salterra Resort & Spa). Grace Bay Resorts received the Sustainability Trailblazer Award, while Sandals Group (Beaches Turks and Caicos) was honoured with the Community Impact Award.

Other memorable moments of the evening included two luxury raffle draws and a special recognition presented to Ms. Sheryl McLaughlin for five years of dedicated service to the agency.

The evening concluded with closing remarks from Deputy Chair Mr. Walter Gardiner, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants and extended appreciation to the organizers for delivering a successful and memorable celebration.

TCI News

Hair Evolution 2025: Beauty, Fashion, and Community Take Center Stage in Turks and Caicos

Published

2 weeks ago

September 16, 2025

Deandrea Hamilton

Deandrea Hamilton | Editor

Providenciales will come alive this September as the Hair Evolution International Beauty Education Expo & Hair Show takes center stage for two days of creativity, culture, and community impact. Hosted by New Light Entertainment, the highly anticipated event runs from September 26–27, 2025, blending artistry with empowerment while spotlighting some of the region’s brightest talents and industry pioneers.

Day One, set for Friday, September 26 at Graceway Sports Centre, will feature the International Beauty Education Expo, an immersive program dedicated to skill-building and professional growth. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., attendees can take part in live demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and panel discussions led by international experts. Highlights include the discussion “Where Style Meets Strategy: Elevating Beauty, Business & Wellbeing” featuring renowned panelists such as dermatologist Dr. Marsha Barnett, cosmetologist and educator Dr. Kym Stubbs, Jamaica International Beauty Expo founder Suzette Brown, Toronto-based event producer Keisha Pinto, and educator Orica Smart. Celebrity stylists will also lead specialized trade classes, including a wig installation masterclass taught by Sophia Kay.

The Expo’s mission goes beyond beauty. It provides networking opportunities, showcases local and international vendors, and connects aspiring professionals—particularly youth—with career pathways in the creative industry. Part proceeds will benefit the Cancer Society of the Turks and Caicos Islands, ensuring that the event makes a lasting impact both inside and outside the beauty arena.

On Saturday, September 27, the spotlight shifts to Brayton Hall for the dazzling Main Stage Hair & Fashion Showcases. Beginning at 7:30 p.m., the night promises high-energy runway performances, fantasy hair creations, cutting-edge barbering, and striking fashion presentations. Local and international talents will converge, blending artistry with entertainment for an unforgettable show.

The evening will also honor trailblazers who have made extraordinary contributions to the beauty industry. This year’s Hair Evolution Honourees include:

Commenci Duncan-Hanfield, recipient of the Legacy in Beauty & Community Impact Award, recognized for her lasting influence and service.
Camille Swann, awarded the Beauty & Influence Trailblazer Award, celebrating her innovative leadership and impact on the industry.
Fior Rivas, recipient of the Outstanding Service & Industry Impact Award, for her dedication to advancing the beauty profession.
Dr. Kym Stubbs, honored with the Lifetime Achievement in Beauty & Education Award, for decades of excellence as a cosmetologist and educator.
Kareem Higgs, receiving the Barbering Legacy & Trailblazer Award, recognizing his contributions to elevating barbering within the community.

Founder and Executive Director Natasha Bien-Aimé expressed her excitement about the show’s return, emphasizing its role as more than entertainment. “Hair Evolution is about celebrating artistry, but also about education, empowerment, and building opportunities for the next generation,” she said.

With its dynamic blend of education, fashion, and recognition, Hair Evolution 2025 promises to inspire, entertain, and uplift. Tickets are available now, with limited space for attendees eager to witness the Caribbean’s premier beauty showcase.