For many small business owners, navigating the world of finance can feel like unfamiliar territory. Yet, understanding how to make sound financial decisions is essential for long-term growth—especially in a dynamic and competitive sector like tourism. In recognition of this need, the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL), in collaboration with the Unit Trust Corporation (UTC), hosted a free, interactive webinar for local tourism operators titled “Build, Grow, Thrive – Smart Investments for Small Business Growth” on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.
The session attracted over fifty (50) tourism entrepreneurs and small business operators from Tobago, reflecting strong interest in financial education as a critical component of business development on the island. Led by UTC Financial Advisor Mrs. Desiree Hackett-Murray, the webinar offered expert guidance on financial planning and investment strategies tailored specifically to the realities of tourism-based businesses. Participants engaged in rich discussions around the importance of investing for long-term sustainability, aligning investment choices with financial goals, and assessing individual risk tolerance and capacity.
Speaking at the event, TTAL’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Sandra Orr-Toney, expressed her deep appreciation for UTC’s partnership and continued support, noting that the collaboration was sparked by UTC’s well-received presentation at TTAL’s inaugural Honouring, Empowering, Revolutionizing – HER Forum—an event which celebrated and empowered businesswomen and entrepreneurs across Tobago’s vibrant tourism and hospitality industry for International Women’s Day earlier this year. Building on the momentum of that engagement, this latest initiative facilitated meaningful discussions with a broader cross-section of tourism stakeholders, in keeping with TTAL’s efforts to strengthen long-term sustainability within the sector.
Speaking directly to attendees at the webinar, Mrs. Orr-Toney stated:
“Our goal at TTAL is not only to market destination Tobago to the world, but also to support your growth, stability and long-term success. We believe that strengthening your financial knowledge is a powerful and enriching way to do that. So, with this in mind, we have partnered with the UTC in hosting this webinar with the core objective of building financial literacy, to assist you in making smarter business decisions, navigating financial uncertainty and building a more sustainable future for your enterprise and for Tobago.”
This initiative forms part of TTAL’s wider strategic commitment to building a stronger, more resilient tourism sector by investing in the capacity and development of the people who sustain it. By providing access to relevant, skills-based learning opportunities, the Agency continues to empower Tobago’s tourism entrepreneurs to lay a solid foundation for sustained growth and success.
TTAL extends its sincere thanks to all participants and looks forward to delivering further professional development initiatives that drive inclusive and sustainable progress across Tobago’s tourism industry.
For more exciting news on developments and opportunities within Tobago’s tourism sector, follow the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL) on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn, and visit tobagobeyond.com.