The Department of Commerce and Investment (DCI) is encouraging Cayman-based investors to enter the first-ever Regional Investor of the Year competition.

A joint initiative of the Caribbean Export Development Agency (CEDA), and the Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (CAIPA), the competition is open to local and foreign investors who have made significant contributions to the economies in which they operate.

‘This is an excellent opportunity to showcase regional success stories, and I am confident that some of Cayman’s investors are well-positioned to win either category awards, or the overall competition, said Ryan Rajkumarsingh, DCI director.

He further noted that top placements would benefit the investors, and Cayman. The winners would gain regional recognition and ‘bragging rights’ for their accomplishments, and, ultimately, the country would get additional exposure that could help attract other investment projects.

Investors will be evaluated in areas including, but not limited to, the number and skill level of jobs created; a demonstrated commitment to implement knowledge transfer programs that develop local talent; and their corporate and social responsibility efforts.

The awards also will recognise companies that have invested in areas of strategic importance to the region, such as green energy; research and development; projects that involve a high degree of innovation and creativity; and those that are championed by women.

Application forms and competition details are on the CEDA website at wwww.carib-export.com. All applications must be submitted through DCI, to [email protected], by the entry deadline of Friday, 11 October at 11:59 pm AST. Mrs Ducent also is available via phone to answer questions. She can be reached at 244-2278.

Winners will be announced at the CAIPA General Assembly on Friday, 22 November in Belize. CEDA and CAIPA will feature the winners on their websites, and in planned investment promotion campaigns.