GREAT BAY--The St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted its “Island Roots to Global Routes” Business Mixer on Friday, July 31, as preparations continue for the Business Expansion Mission and Expo in Miami, Florida, from November 16 to 19, 2026.
Business owners, entrepreneurs, investors and other stakeholders attended the session to learn how they can prepare for the mission and make use of the business development opportunities it will offer.
COCI Vice President Anastacio Baker encouraged local businesses to look beyond the domestic market and position themselves for international growth.
“This Mission is more than a trip, it’s an investment in your future. It provides direct access to new markets, valuable business relationships, expert guidance and opportunities that can transform your business from a local enterprise into a global competitor,” Baker said.
Participants in the mission will have access to business matchmaking, networking with investors and distributors, guidance from legal, financial and international trade professionals, and opportunities to establish partnerships, export channels and distribution arrangements. The mission will also provide greater visibility for Caribbean products and services and practical information to help businesses scale and diversify.
COCI Director Jude Houston highlighted the availability of funding through the Netherlands Enterprise Agency, RVO, which may assist qualifying businesses with participation costs. He encouraged eligible companies to prepare and submit their applications early.
COCI Business Center Manager Richmer York outlined the application process and the supporting documents required, including valid identification, recent bank statements, business registration documents, the official mission invoice and other relevant information.
Businesses requiring assistance may visit the COCI Business Center for guidance with their applications.
RVO funding is currently available to qualifying N.V. and B.V. companies. However, the Miami mission is open to sole proprietorships, entrepreneurs and prospective investors. Flexible payment plans are also available through COCI.
An online RVO training session will be held on August 20, 2026, providing further guidance on the application process, business preparation and available funding opportunities.
Several attendees used the mixer to secure their participation through installment payments, network with other business leaders and explore possible partnerships.
The “Island Roots to Global Routes” Business Expansion Mission and Expo is being organized by COCI in collaboration with regional and international partners to help Caribbean businesses enter and compete in larger markets.
Interested business owners, entrepreneurs and investors are encouraged to register early, as space is limited.
