Capital Management Firm, In Partnership With UVI’s School of Business, Hosts Free Summer ‘Entrepreneur Business Institute’

ST. THOMAS — International Capital & Management Company (I.C.M.C.) in partnership with the University of the Virgin Islands School of Business, announced today their third annual “Entrepreneur Business Institute (E.B.I.).”

Created in 2013 in an effort to positively impact the business landscape and empower and prepare young Virgin Islanders with the important skills of business and entrepreneurship, E.B.I. is a free summer program that runs from June 19 through July 8 for 10th, 11th  and 12th graders, according to the release. The program also aims to help students develop key skills surrounding entrepreneurship, leadership and business, while providing insight into the college experience and campus life.

“I.C.M.C. is proud to once again offer the community such an important and impactful program,” says Cornel Williams, president of I.C.M.C. “The skills that our young participants gain each year continue to further prepare them to enter the world of entrepreneurship, as well as provide them with practical knowledge and skills that they can immediately implement if they choose to do so.” 

For three weeks, 30 students from across the territory will have the opportunity to reside on the U.V.I. campuses to enjoy a pre-college experience and learn about the advantages and challenges of entrepreneurship, experience mentorship from successful business leaders, while participating in active discussions about concept development and business ownership, according to the release. Students will also engage in team exercises to improve their team-building and project management skills and enjoy an educational experience where they can participate in forums and discussions facilitated by business professionals along with a group of their peers.

Though I.C.M.C. and UVI held a similar business program from 2006 to 2011, and the team worked to redefine and recreate the high intensity program in 2013 that now highlights a much more entrepreneurial focus. 

“We strive to identify those who will benefit the most from our entrepreneurial training offerings,” explains Dr. Paul Flemming, assistant professor of management and marketing at U.V.I. “Many of our past students have since gone on to open successful businesses of their own, and we aspire to continue this trend, as together we inspire the future business owners and leaders of tomorrow.” Mr. Flemming also serves as E.B.I’s director.

A robust and well-rounded program, the curriculum also offers time for participants to enjoy time together as they participate in community engagement activities, as well as social networking opportunities and off site excursions, according to the release.