Anyone who is involved in or interested in starting a business or growing or restructuring an existing business that falls into the category of a micro, small, or medium enterprise can get assistance and advice from the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation. Typically the BAIC would assist interested persons in the following areas.

• Starting a business, including business plans.
• Business Sustainability.
• Marketing Services.
• Accounting Services.

Eligibility

Interested persons must be Bahamian nationals or have permanent resident status here in The Bahamas.

Process

1. Fill out and submit a Business Plan application form. Submission may be via e-mail or fax, or by dropping off a physical copy to any of the offices of the BAIC, as outlined below.
2. Attend an interview, preferably by appointment, as set up with the BAIC, filling out the Client Registration form on arrival – the feedback section must only be completed after the interview has ended. This would be the first step for persons who are interested in assistance other than starting, restructuring, or growing a business, or sourcing financing.

Application Form(s)

• Business Plan Application Form (available here or at the offices of the BAIC).
• Client Registration Form (the form can be collected at the offices of the BAIC).

Supporting Documents

• Proof of Bahamian Nationality / Permanent Resident Status (Passport).
• 2 Character References.
• Credit Reference.
• Full résumé of the applicant, key management and personnel, including education, training, and work / business experience.
• Relevant supporting documentation as outlined on the checklist on the Client Registration form.

Turn-around time

Business plans take 30 – 45 days; Assistance with accessing funding typically takes 30 – 45 days, with the BAIC giving advice and returning the documents to the client for further forward to the appropriate financial institution. Please note that the BAIC does not offer funding; In the case of clients requiring other types of assistance, the length of time varies as it is dependent on the type of assistance and the availability of third parties that are critical to the process.

Deadline

There are no deadlines for this service.

Related Fee(s)

The BAIC provides these services to the general public free of charge.

For more information please contact