Head of Corporate Banking at CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank Country Manager Michael Spencer presenting a cheque for $10, 000 to GARD for empowerment programme

St. John’s Antigua- Caribbean Association of Youth Business (CAYB) has received an injection of capital from CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank to help with the organisation’s micro enterprise programme.

Antigua & Barbuda through the Caribbean Youth Empowerment Programme, operated by the Gilbert Agricultural and Rural Development Centre (GARD), will receive US$30,000 over a three – year period from the fund, a release said.

Head of Corporate Banking at CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank Country Manager Michael Spencer said the funds will be used specifically for the training of young entrepreneurs, maintenance of a business mentoring programme, micro financing and a Q & A service.

Angela Ephraim, GARD’s Finance & Communications Officer received the second year’s tranche of US$10,000, bringing the bank’s contribution to date to US$20,000,

Ephraim thanked the bank for their ongoing commitment to the development of young people in Antigua & Barbuda.

“This generous contribution from CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank has made it possible for this fund to be expanded which will allow more entrepreneurs access to the programme,” she said.