About Us

About UsThe University of the Virgin Islands Research and Technology Park (RTPark) is a rapidly growing economic development program specializing in technology and knowledge-based business attraction in the United States Virgin Islands (USVI).  It is a partnership between the private sector, the government of the US Virgin Islands and the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI).  Benefits include, but are not limited to:

 

 

Our Mission: to establish the USVI as the premier business destination of choice for firms in knowledge and technology-intensive sectors.  The RTPark is proud to be an instrumental part of diversifying the regional economy and growing the tech ecosystem in an area advantageously located between the mainland US and Latin America.  

History

The RTPark was established in 2002 and secured its first client in 2006. It was created through a vision of leaders at the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI), working closely with members of the legislature and the private sector.  Their aim was to create a platform for diversifying the USVI economy and for stimulating growth and development of the islands. The RTPark program headquarters is located on the island of St Croix.

The program has enjoyed a period of rapid growth, almost doubling in size since 2015.  In 2014 the number of clients was 27, accelerating to 52 at the end of January 2018. In September 2018, there are fifty-nine (59) active or in process clients in the program, with operations in all three islands.

Targeted Technology Sectors

The RTPark has instituted a targeted and highly intelligent business development program designed for future growth and dynamism. This effort has identified under-explored sectors in areas where needs are plentiful and potential for disruption is great. Promising target clusters include, but are not limited to:

Financial Technology

Financial Technology (FINTECH)

including mobile technology, digital only banks, biometric technologies, blockchain technology​
Health and Medicine (BIOTECH),

Health and Medicine (BIOTECH),

including medical devices, personalized medical applications, wellness and healthcare management​
ENERGY RESEARCH AND SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT

Energy Research and System Development

including renewable and clean technology systems, energy efficiency solutions and energy management​
Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)

Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)

including customer support centers, shared service centers, corporate and technical services, and data storage and processing​

Other business segments include consulting and investment services, internet advertising and e-commerce, specialized software development, telecommunications/infrastructure, advanced supply chain management & logistics, cloud-based services, electronic publishing, and intellectual property rights management.

Client Testimonials

Our firm, The RainTree Group, came into the UVI RT Park program in 2018.  We didn't have much experience in the USVI and followed the advice of the wonderful RT Park staff and other RT Park tenants.  The application process was transparent and straightforward.   The simple concept of the Park is mutual benefit - your company gets some tax incentives that allows you to grow your business more quickly and the USVI and UVI gets additional tax base, employment opportunities, and scholarships for deserving students.  The business environment and life in the USVI is slower paces and less stressful as the mainland, and without question the biggest business hurdle is communications, so find an office location where you have investigated the broadband options. Come and join us, you won't regret it!

James Salter, VosCom dba The RainTree Group

In January 2012 my business was underway as a Tech Park entity. It has been a wonderful seven years. The Tech Park has always been supportive, easy to do business with, and is making a positive impact on the islands. The Tech Park organization is professional and efficient. They have created a friendly business environment that has been a pleasure to work within and a great experience overall. I would encourage any eligible entity to consider joining us in the Tech Park.

Louise Stapleton, LNL Publishing

We have been part of the RT-Park program for almost three years now.  The application process was straight forward and we had plenty of dialogue and feedback prior to our approval.  My only regret is we didn’t do this sooner.  It is satisfying  knowing that we are partners with UVI and enabling the education of the next generation .  We also love living in the USVI.  People are warm and welcoming and the pace of life is amazing healthy.  Most days it feels like a working vacation.

Andy Hemmert, President , HRMT, LLC

There are many unique treasures to living here. I’ve discovered a passion for mountain biking. My children have learned to sail. With a small community, you get to know people quickly. We found they went out of their way to make us feel welcome. When considering the move, a top concern was the children’s education. We found a quality school our kids love, with a dedicated faculty. In fairness there is an adjustment period. You learn to navigate island life, master shipping logistics, get to know a new culture, and take in some of the most beautiful ocean views in the world.

David Thompson, Exigo