ST. JOHN’S, Antigua and Barbuda — The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has approved EC$210,000 in Entrepreneurial Development Programme (EDP) financing to help three locally owned businesses expand their operations and create additional economic activity.

The latest approvals cover R. Cole’s Grocery Plus, Duberry Estates and KCH Properties, with funding directed toward business expansion in retail, tourism accommodation and property development.

R. Cole’s Grocery Plus received EC$50,000 to support the expansion of its All Saints grocery business, including a new deli, coffee and espresso services, expanded refrigerated products and equipment.

Duberry Estates received EC$100,000 toward completing a five-unit luxury short-term rental development near Jolly Harbour, while KCH Properties was approved for EC$60,000 to purchase furniture for additional apartment units.

The government said the financing demonstrates its continued focus on local entrepreneurship, affordable business capital and employment creation. The initiative could give more Antiguan and Barbudan entrepreneurs opportunities to strengthen locally owned businesses and participate in the country’s expanding tourism economy.