To foster a strong and sustainable private sector, it is essential that entrepreneurs possess not only good ideas, but also the necessary knowledge and tools to manage, develop, and scale their businesses.
With this in mind, the Department of Economic Affairs, Commerce and Industry (Directie Economische Zaken, Handel en Industrie – DEZHI), through its IDEA unit, is proceeding with Phase 3 of the Masterclass Entrepreneurship under the theme “Manage Your Business.”
On Tuesday, September 29, 2026, IDEA will host the first workshop of Phase 3, titled “Ready to Grow: Managing Your Finances & Employee Insurance.” The workshop is aimed at both existing business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs in Aruba, focusing on two vital management pillars: financial management and employee insurance.
Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs, and Primary Sector, Geoffrey Wever, emphasizes that access to practical knowledge and resources is a cornerstone of ongoing efforts to bolster Aruba’s private sector and empower local entrepreneurs.
“We want to encourage people to enter the business world, but we must also equip them with the knowledge to build a enterprise on a solid foundation. An entrepreneur must understand their finances, know their responsibilities as an employer, and possess the tools to make decisions that drive sustainable business growth.”
Phase 3 of the Masterclass Entrepreneurship focuses on enhancing entrepreneurs’ practical management skills across various topics. The goal is to better prepare business owners to manage and expand their ventures responsibly, efficiently, and sustainably.
The demand for continued investment in this area is evident. According to the workshop overview, many new and existing business owners lack sufficient practical expertise regarding financial management and employee insurance coverage. This gap can lead to suboptimal financial decisions or a lack of awareness concerning the legal obligations associated with hiring staff.
During “Ready to Grow,” Edward Erasmus from Erasmus Consulting & Training will present on “Managing Your Finances,” while Cristian Garcia from SVb will share insights on “Employee Insurance: What Every Employer Needs to Know.” The workshop will also include an interactive Q&A session, giving participants direct access to expert advice.
Minister Wever expressed his gratitude to the DEZHI, IDEA, and EXPRODESK teams for their dedicated efforts in driving private sector development and expanding educational opportunities for local business owners.
“The private sector is a key engine of our economy. By investing in the expertise of our current and prospective entrepreneurs, we are investing in a stronger private sector, more sustainable jobs, and an economy better equipped for growth.”
The workshop “Ready to Grow: Managing Your Finances & Employee Insurance” will take place on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Cas Veneranda. Space is limited, and interested existing or prospective business owners can register via the official event page.
