Latest news with #AlbertBryanJr.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
New Public-Private Alliance Aims to Transform St. Croix Into Caribbean Capital Markets Powerhouse
5 STAR BDM, a leading business development firm, joins forces with SEDI-CASE to position St. Croix as the epicenter of the Caribbean capital markets. This bold collaboration aims to ignite economic opportunities for the region while addressing systemic funding gaps for small, medium, minority business, and government-led initiatives. ST. CROIX U.S., Virgin Islands , May 13, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The U.S. Virgin Islands is poised for its most ambitious economic leap yet. Governor Albert Bryan Jr., alongside Grant McGaugh, CEO of 5 STAR BDM, and Anthony Weeks, President & CEO of SEDI-CASE, today announced a groundbreaking partnership to position St. Croix as the premier capital markets hub of the Caribbean and the Americas. This initiative is more than just economics; it's about creating a legacy of inclusive growth, equity, and unprecedented connectivity for the region. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the heart of the Caribbean's economy, generating approximately 40% of the GDP and accounting for 95% of companies. Yet, fewer than 13% engage in exports.(1) Why? Outdated barriers, archaic policies, and a crippling lack of access to trade finance. This disruptive partnership is designed to shatter those glass ceilings—opening global pathways for minority-led ventures and rewriting the rules of access to capital in the region. "This is an exciting day for the U.S. Virgin Islands as we embrace a future filled with promise and opportunity," Governor Bryan emphasized during the signing ceremony between the Government of the Virgin Islands (GVI), SEDI-CASE, Connect Caribe. "Today's announcement represents a collaborative effort to unlock the economic potential of our region, to create a more connected and prosperous Caribbean, and to position the U.S. Virgin Islands as a leading hub for trade, commerce, and innovation." Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Deserve a Stage. This multipronged initiative brings real-world solutions to long-standing economic barriers, laying the groundwork for a reimagined Caribbean economy built on access, connectivity, and empowerment: Innovative Trade Finance Solutions: St. Croix will pioneer industry-leading frameworks aimed at easing access to capital for minority entrepreneurs. This is not just about "leveling the field"—it's about changing the game altogether. "St. Croix is America's best-kept secret in the Caribbean—a U.S. National Heritage Area ready to lead not only in tourism, but in global trade, remote work, and investment," said Weeks. "This initiative invites the world to rediscover St. Croix as a strategic gateway for both leisure and serious business." From Vision to Reality Cruise tourism is surging in St. Croix, projected to welcome 275,000 passengers in FY 2025—up from fewer than 60,000 a few years ago. (2) Add to that the Caribbean region's $151.78 billion GDP, and it's clear that St. Croix sits at the intersection of immense potential and real return of investment. (3) The initiative positions St. Croix to play a pivotal role in accelerating trade, attracting investment, and driving industrial growth across both the US. and the Caribbean. "Caribbean's SMEs are the backbone of the region's economy, but they've been systematically shut out of global opportunity," said McGaugh. "5 STAR BDM is building more than a platform—we're building a movement. St. Croix will be the epicenter of a new economic era that finally puts minority-led businesses at the forefront of capital, commerce, and global relevance." Strategic Partners Align to Activate St. Croix's Economic Potential Recent legislation passed in the U.S. Virgin Islands in late 2024 reinforces the territory's positioning as a stable, pro-business environment—one that can attract institutional capital and support cross-border economic activity. As part of the broader initiative, partners from across sectors are aligning resources to operationalize the vision announced today. Key markets in Boston, New England State, New York Tri-state area, Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia (Loudoun County), and South Florida —known for its tech-forward infrastructure and economic planning— bring logistical and structural expertise to the table. SEDI-CASE USVI contributes deep regional insight and a track record of entrepreneurship development, while 5 STAR BDM applies its experience in business growth strategy and systems design. Together, the partnership is building a foundation for St. Croix to emerge not only as a regional financial hub but as a bridge between U.S. markets and the broader Caribbean. The collaboration is focused on execution: expanding access to trade finance, enabling global connectivity, and building the infrastructure SMEs need to scale beyond local limitations. "We're focused on building a durable ecosystem that unlocks long-term opportunity," said McGaugh. "This is about removing friction for entrepreneurs who've been boxed out for too long—and making St. Croix a beacon of inclusive economic mobility." About 5 STAR BDM 5 STAR BDM is a trailblazing consultancy at the intersection of personal branding, digital strategy, and systemic transformation. Founded by Grant McGaugh in response to a deeply personal loss, 5 STAR BDM was born not just as a business—but as a mission to challenge the status quo in industries where bureaucracy too often overshadows humanity. With a data-driven approach grounded in empathy, the firm empowers entrepreneurs, executives, and innovators to harness the full potential of their personal and professional brands. From healthcare to economic development, 5 STAR BDM brings together analytics, authenticity, and strategic storytelling to build platforms that inspire trust, drive equity, and spark lasting change. Under McGaugh's leadership, the firm has become a catalyst for systemic reform and inclusive growth—delivering branding solutions that do more than elevate visibility; they shift narratives. For more details, visit About SEDI-CASE The St. Croix Economic Development Initiative (SEDI), in partnership with the Caribbean-Americas Single Economy (CASE), is a bold catalyst for macroeconomic innovation, regional integration, and capital market expansion. Rooted in the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton—St. Croix—SEDI-CASE champions the island's legacy as a foundation for economic renaissance and systemic transformation across the U.S. Virgin Islands, the broader Caribbean, and global markets. Operating as a macroeconomic think tank and strategic advisory body, SEDI-CASE delivers high-impact research, economic policy solutions, and investment frameworks that foster inclusive growth and sustainable development. With initiatives like Vision 2020 INVEST: USVI and the Heritage House Revitalization Project, the organization is reshaping historic towns into engines of cultural, commercial, and creative resurgence. Through capital market formation, infrastructure revitalization, and global trade positioning, SEDI-CASE is building an integrated Caribbean marketplace—one rooted in heritage, driven by equity, and designed for future generations. For more information, visit References: 1. Richards, Christopher. "Enhancing Trade Finance for SMEs in the Caribbean." 31 June 2024, 2. Government of the United States Virgin Islands. "2025 State of the Territory Address ." Government of the United States Virgin Islands, 27 Jan. 2025, 3. International Monetary Fund. "Caribbean Datasets." Apr. 2025, Media Inquiries: Karla Jo Helms JOTO PR™ 727-777-4629 Media Contact Karla Jo Helms, JOTO PR™, 727-777-4629, khelms@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE 5 STAR BDM Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
New Public-Private Alliance Aims to Transform St. Croix Into Caribbean Capital Markets Powerhouse
5 STAR BDM, a leading business development firm, joins forces with SEDI-CASE to position St. Croix as the epicenter of the Caribbean capital markets. This bold collaboration aims to ignite economic opportunities for the region while addressing systemic funding gaps for small, medium, minority business, and government-led initiatives. ST. CROIX U.S., Virgin Islands , May 13, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The U.S. Virgin Islands is poised for its most ambitious economic leap yet. Governor Albert Bryan Jr., alongside Grant McGaugh, CEO of 5 STAR BDM, and Anthony Weeks, President & CEO of SEDI-CASE, today announced a groundbreaking partnership to position St. Croix as the premier capital markets hub of the Caribbean and the Americas. This initiative is more than just economics; it's about creating a legacy of inclusive growth, equity, and unprecedented connectivity for the region. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the heart of the Caribbean's economy, generating approximately 40% of the GDP and accounting for 95% of companies. Yet, fewer than 13% engage in exports.(1) Why? Outdated barriers, archaic policies, and a crippling lack of access to trade finance. This disruptive partnership is designed to shatter those glass ceilings—opening global pathways for minority-led ventures and rewriting the rules of access to capital in the region. "This is an exciting day for the U.S. Virgin Islands as we embrace a future filled with promise and opportunity," Governor Bryan emphasized during the signing ceremony between the Government of the Virgin Islands (GVI), SEDI-CASE, Connect Caribe. "Today's announcement represents a collaborative effort to unlock the economic potential of our region, to create a more connected and prosperous Caribbean, and to position the U.S. Virgin Islands as a leading hub for trade, commerce, and innovation." Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Deserve a Stage. This multipronged initiative brings real-world solutions to long-standing economic barriers, laying the groundwork for a reimagined Caribbean economy built on access, connectivity, and empowerment: Innovative Trade Finance Solutions: St. Croix will pioneer industry-leading frameworks aimed at easing access to capital for minority entrepreneurs. This is not just about "leveling the field"—it's about changing the game altogether. "St. Croix is America's best-kept secret in the Caribbean—a U.S. National Heritage Area ready to lead not only in tourism, but in global trade, remote work, and investment," said Weeks. "This initiative invites the world to rediscover St. Croix as a strategic gateway for both leisure and serious business." From Vision to Reality Cruise tourism is surging in St. Croix, projected to welcome 275,000 passengers in FY 2025—up from fewer than 60,000 a few years ago. (2) Add to that the Caribbean region's $151.78 billion GDP, and it's clear that St. Croix sits at the intersection of immense potential and real return of investment. (3) The initiative positions St. Croix to play a pivotal role in accelerating trade, attracting investment, and driving industrial growth across both the US. and the Caribbean. "Caribbean's SMEs are the backbone of the region's economy, but they've been systematically shut out of global opportunity," said McGaugh. "5 STAR BDM is building more than a platform—we're building a movement. St. Croix will be the epicenter of a new economic era that finally puts minority-led businesses at the forefront of capital, commerce, and global relevance." Strategic Partners Align to Activate St. Croix's Economic Potential Recent legislation passed in the U.S. Virgin Islands in late 2024 reinforces the territory's positioning as a stable, pro-business environment—one that can attract institutional capital and support cross-border economic activity. As part of the broader initiative, partners from across sectors are aligning resources to operationalize the vision announced today. Key markets in Boston, New England State, New York Tri-state area, Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia (Loudoun County), and South Florida —known for its tech-forward infrastructure and economic planning— bring logistical and structural expertise to the table. SEDI-CASE USVI contributes deep regional insight and a track record of entrepreneurship development, while 5 STAR BDM applies its experience in business growth strategy and systems design. Together, the partnership is building a foundation for St. Croix to emerge not only as a regional financial hub but as a bridge between U.S. markets and the broader Caribbean. The collaboration is focused on execution: expanding access to trade finance, enabling global connectivity, and building the infrastructure SMEs need to scale beyond local limitations. "We're focused on building a durable ecosystem that unlocks long-term opportunity," said McGaugh. "This is about removing friction for entrepreneurs who've been boxed out for too long—and making St. Croix a beacon of inclusive economic mobility." About 5 STAR BDM 5 STAR BDM is a trailblazing consultancy at the intersection of personal branding, digital strategy, and systemic transformation. Founded by Grant McGaugh in response to a deeply personal loss, 5 STAR BDM was born not just as a business—but as a mission to challenge the status quo in industries where bureaucracy too often overshadows humanity. With a data-driven approach grounded in empathy, the firm empowers entrepreneurs, executives, and innovators to harness the full potential of their personal and professional brands. From healthcare to economic development, 5 STAR BDM brings together analytics, authenticity, and strategic storytelling to build platforms that inspire trust, drive equity, and spark lasting change. Under McGaugh's leadership, the firm has become a catalyst for systemic reform and inclusive growth—delivering branding solutions that do more than elevate visibility; they shift narratives. For more details, visit About SEDI-CASE The St. Croix Economic Development Initiative (SEDI), in partnership with the Caribbean-Americas Single Economy (CASE), is a bold catalyst for macroeconomic innovation, regional integration, and capital market expansion. Rooted in the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton—St. Croix—SEDI-CASE champions the island's legacy as a foundation for economic renaissance and systemic transformation across the U.S. Virgin Islands, the broader Caribbean, and global markets. Operating as a macroeconomic think tank and strategic advisory body, SEDI-CASE delivers high-impact research, economic policy solutions, and investment frameworks that foster inclusive growth and sustainable development. With initiatives like Vision 2020 INVEST: USVI and the Heritage House Revitalization Project, the organization is reshaping historic towns into engines of cultural, commercial, and creative resurgence. Through capital market formation, infrastructure revitalization, and global trade positioning, SEDI-CASE is building an integrated Caribbean marketplace—one rooted in heritage, driven by equity, and designed for future generations. For more information, visit References: 1. Richards, Christopher. "Enhancing Trade Finance for SMEs in the Caribbean." 31 June 2024, 2. Government of the United States Virgin Islands. "2025 State of the Territory Address ." Government of the United States Virgin Islands, 27 Jan. 2025, 3. International Monetary Fund. "Caribbean Datasets." Apr. 2025, Media Inquiries: Karla Jo Helms JOTO PR™ 727-777-4629 Media Contact Karla Jo Helms, JOTO PR™, 727-777-4629, khelms@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE 5 STAR BDM Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Associated Press
15-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
U.S. Virgin Islands Makes a Bold Impression at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025
ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism concluded a highly successful week at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025, the cruise industry's leading annual event, held in Miami, Florida. With a focus on strengthening partnerships, showcasing the territory's unique offerings, and elevating its cruise tourism strategy, the USVI delegation left a lasting impression on global cruise leaders, stakeholders, and attendees. The U.S. Virgin Islands delegation began the week with a warm and energetic welcome reception—a Caribbean BBQ hosted by Governor Albert Bryan Jr. at the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) headquarters. The event, proudly sponsored by the Department of Tourism, set the tone for a week of connection and collaboration. Cruise executives, partners, and media were treated to authentic Virgin Islands hospitality and cuisine in a festive atmosphere that celebrated the territory's vibrant culture and growing role in the global cruise industry. Throughout the conference, Governor Bryan and Commissioner Boschulte held a series of high-level, productive meetings with leading cruise lines, including Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean International. Discussions centered around itinerary planning, infrastructure improvements, guest experience enhancements, and sustainability efforts—all aimed at expanding cruise offerings and increasing calls to St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John. Cruise tourism to the U.S. Virgin Islands continues to grow, with passenger arrivals reaching 1.7 million in 2024—up 90,000 from the previous year. Projections indicate 1.8 million arrivals in 2025 and 1.9 million in 2026. St. Thomas and St. John led the way with 542,071 passengers at Crown Bay and 983,862 at WICO, while St. Croix welcomed 169,228 at the AAMF port. The Department of Tourism remains focused on sustaining this momentum through strategic planning and strong industry partnerships. 'Seatrade Cruise Global provides an unmatched platform for dialogue with our cruise partners,' said Commissioner Boschulte. 'We came to the table with a clear vision for growth and innovation in cruise tourism, and the interest and enthusiasm from our partners have been extremely encouraging.' In addition to leadership meetings, the Department of Tourism team was active on the tradeshow floor, where they conducted dozens of industry engagements and introduced attendees to the authentic spirit of the USVI. The USVI booth became a standout attraction, buzzing with cultural energy thanks to live performances from steel pan musicians, moko jumbies, and traditional dancers. Staff also distributed branded giveaways that kept the USVI top of mind for potential visitors and industry representatives alike. The USVI's presence at Seatrade underscored its commitment to balancing economic development with cultural integrity. From infrastructure investment to community-based tourism experiences, the territory is focused on delivering a cruise product that is both competitive and uniquely Virgin Islands. 'We're not just selling a destination—we're sharing our story,' adds Commissioner Boschulte. 'Our islands offer unmatched beauty, but it's our people, culture, and authenticity that truly make us a world-class destination for cruise travelers.' With momentum from Seatrade Cruise Global 2025, the USVI is poised for continued growth in cruise tourism, fueled by cross-industry thought strategy, strong partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. For more information on visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands and experiencing these award-winning beaches, please visit About the U.S. Virgin Islands About 40 miles east of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands comprise a United States territory located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. The three islands are St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, where the capital of Charlotte Amalie is located. Perfect for leisure or business travel, the U.S. Virgin Islands features breathtaking, world-renowned beaches, an international marine industry, European architecture, and a burgeoning restaurant industry. No passports are required from U.S. citizens traveling from the U.S. mainland or Puerto Rico. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are equivalent to entering the United States from any international country. Upon departure, a passport is required for non-U.S. citizens. For more information about the United States Virgin Islands, go to follow us @VisitUSVI on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and Pinterest, and @USVITourism on TikTok, X and LinkedIn. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism
