SBA

The USVI branch of the SBA plays an integral role in assisting emerging and existing small businesses through high quality professional business counseling and training, contributing to the economic growth of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The Virgin Islands Small Business Development Center is the territory’s largest and most accessible source of assistance for entrepreneurs and the only territory wide nationally accredited program that provides business consulting to entrepreneurs at no cost. Through a network of locations on St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John, the VI SBDC provides high quality one-on-one consulting, training, and information resources to help your business start, grow and succeed.

For more info on SBA: https://www.sba.gov/

For more info SBA, USVI branch: http://www.sbdcvi.org

Chamber of Commerce

Both the St. Croix and St. Thomas/St. John Chamber of Commerce work on behalf of the business community in the Virgin Islands to advocate for pro-business governmental issues. Their Government Relations Committee researches issues that are important to supporting a positive business environment such as Economic Development, Energy, Territorial Budget and Taxation, Tourism, Public Safety, Infrastructure, Education and many other causes.

The Chamber of Commerce also provides their members with networking opportunities, community involvement, image enhancement, political advocacy, information access, numerous discounts and benefits, and heightened credibility.

For more info on St Croix Chamber: https://stxchamber.org/

For more info St. Thomas/St. John Chamber http://www.chamber.vi/

USVIEDA

The RTPark works closely with our partner agency, the USVI Economic Development Authority. Together we are working to build a strong and dynamic community of businesses within the US Virgin Islands.

The USVIEDA has four major components:

  • Economic Development Commission
  • Virgin Islands Economic Park Development Corporation (formerly the Industrial Park Development Corporation)
  • Economic Development Bank (formerly the Government Development Bank and the Small Business development Agency)
  • Enterprise Zone Commission

The purpose of the U.S. Economic Development Authority is to act as an umbrella authority that integrates and unifies the functions of the four agencies under one executive board in order to maximize efficiency and enhance economic development in the Territory.

For more info on EDA: https://www.usvieda.org/

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