Small Business Development Centre Belize (SBDCBelize)

Who we are

 

The Small Business Development Centre, Belize (SBDCBelize) is a unit of the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE), which is a statutory body of the Government of Belize. 

SBDCBelize provides one-on-one confidential and needs-based business advising, and training in proven management fundamentals to help micro, small, and medium-sized businesses and potential entrepreneurs make sound decisions for the successful operation of their business.

Mission

To create economic prosperity though entrepreneurial development, business innovation and competitiveness.

Vision

To be Belize’s leading small business support organization by providing business advisory services, technical assistance and fostering entrepreneurship.

Our Core Values

Entrepreneurship
Promoting new business in Belize by encouraging creativity, fostering strategic risk-taking and enhancing ability to succeed.
Excellence
Exceeding stakeholder expectations by achieving results, demonstrating leadership, leveraging our resources and expertise.
Integrity
Building our reputation by being accountable, credible, ethical, and respectful.
Innovation
Fostering a culture of creativity by embracing dynamism and continuous learning.
Customer Service
Delivering results and fostering diversity by being responsive, adding value and providing solutions.
Collaboration
Building lasting partnership by promoting information exchange between stakeholders, fostering networking and encouraging teamwork.
Advisory Services
SBDCBelize provides one-on-one, needs-based services.

Services

Business Plan Development
Loan Application Assistance
Feasibility Studies
Financial Advice
Financing Options
Marketing & Sales

Trainings We Offer

Accounting Series


Basic Bookkeeping


Business Plan Development


Costing and Pricing


View All Here

MSME Enhancement Programme ​

The MSME ENHANCEMENT PROGRAMME (MEP), seeks to strengthen the competitiveness of Belize’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), through the waiver of Customs Import Duty, for a list of packaging and labeling materials for eligible MSMEs.

Click Here

Our Team

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Jorge Gentle

SBDC Manager

lorraine-lewis

Lorraine Lewis

MSME Enhancement Program Coordinator

Tasha Almendarez

Tasha Almendarez

Business Advisor

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Marty Lopez

​Business Advisor

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Nancy Castillo

Client Management Officer

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Owen Leiva

Business Advisor

Marjani Baizar

Marjani Baizar

Admin & Communications Officer

Success Stories

Our Clients

Client List for Tier 3 (Startups: in operation less than 3 years)


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Tyree Lizama, Farmer’s Daughters


Farmer’s Daughter is a growing home-based food production business founded by Mrs. Lizama in April 2022 in Orange Walk. The business began with the production of seasoned cooked beans for family and friends and quickly evolved into a commercial venture following positive feedback. Today, Farmer’s Daughter now offers a range of products including organic seaweed smoothies and seaweed jellies.

With operations run by Mrs. Lizama, the brand has steadily expanded its market presence from Orange Walk to supermarkets in Corozal, Belize City, San Pedro, Cayo, and Caye Caulker. The business has also participated in multiple trade exhibitions and expos, contributing to increased visibility and brand recognition.

A winner of the National MSME Roadshow Pitch Competition, Ms. Lizama has improved her branding. She plans to invest in a commercial freezer, aiming to increase production and eventually distribute nationwide and into export markets.


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Daniel Hung, RUNMAN Belize


RUNMAN Belize is a Belizean food delivery and e-commerce platform that connects businesses, customers, and delivery personnel through a unified mobile app marketplace. Focused on convenience and digital innovation, the platform facilitates seamless transactions and deliveries using local cashless payment systems such as e-Kyash and DigiWallet, with plans to integrate international options in the future.

RUNMAN Belize is redefining meal delivery with a commitment to efficiency, digital payments, and inclusive business participation.


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Danelie Pott, Hello Roses


Hello Roses is a locally owned and passionately operated floral boutique located in the heart of the Cayo District, Belize. The boutique specializes in crafting exquisite floral arrangements and delivering personalized service to help clients celebrate life’s moments—both big and small.

With a belief in the power of flowers to express emotion, elevate spaces, and create lasting memories, Hello Roses takes pride in every arrangement. Each piece is thoughtfully handcrafted by skilled florists using a vibrant mix of fresh, locally sourced blooms and carefully selected imported varieties.

More than just a flower shop, Hello Roses is dedicated to offering exceptional customer care. The team provides personalized consultations and creative floral solutions tailored to each client’s unique vision and needs. Through a deep-rooted passion for floral artistry and a commitment to community, Hello Roses strives to become a trusted partner for residents across Cayo—and countrywide—seeking beauty, elegance, and joy in every occasion.

Client List for Tier 4 (Established/Maturing: operating 3 years or more)


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Kenric Logan, Canopy Soil


Canopy Soil is a family-run agribusiness based in Cayo, founded by the Logan family to provide sustainable, organic soil enhancement solutions for local farmers and gardeners. Born out of a need for employment and a passion for natural farming, Canopy Soil produces CocoPete, a renewable growing medium that improves water retention and soil aeration, as well as compost and mulch made from farm waste and recycled coconut husks.

The business addresses the growing demand for eco-friendly gardening solutions in Belize, especially as fertilizer costs rise and coconut waste piles up. With early positive feedback from agro suppliers and farming partners, Canopy Soil is preparing to expand distribution nationwide and promote greener agricultural practices across the country.


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Orissa & Javier Molina, Treasured Memories Photo Booth


Treasured Memories Photo Booth is a dynamic husband-and-wife-owned business based in Cayo, specializing in digital photography, photo booth rentals, and media services. Known for their tailored setups and professional service, the company offers a range of experiences including standard photo booths, Belize’s first overhead 360 camera booth, and a 360-camera booth rental.

In addition to event photography, Treasured Memories Photo Booth provides video transfer services for VHS, MiniDV, HI8, VHS-C, and DVD formats, along with screen and video projection rentals for events. With a commitment to innovation and quality, they proudly serve clients across the country, delivering memorable moments and multimedia solutions for every occasion.


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Celina Jimenez, Island Fresh Water


Island Fresh Water, based in Caye Caulker, is a locally operated business dedicated to delivering high-quality water and essential household care services. Originally launched as a water production company, they use advanced purification technology to provide clean, refreshing, and dependable drinking water to homes and businesses across the island.

Driven by a commitment to quality and community, Island Fresh Water has expanded its offerings to better serve its customers. The business now includes Island Fresh Detergents, a locally developed line of household cleaning products, and the Island Fresh Laundromat—a modern, efficient facility equipped with dependable machines and a welcoming environment.

With a focus on convenience, reliability, and local impact, Island Fresh Water continues to grow as a trusted name in household essentials on Caye Caulker.

Looking to Start Your Business?

Become a client of Beltraide under our Small Business Development Center. We will Guide you through the process as your business advisor.

Become A Client Here

Testimonials

Deb Arana, Deb’s Trinket Box

“Both my advisor and SBDCBelize have had a very positive impact on my business, Deb’s Trinket Box, particularly by offering opportunities to be part of their pavilion at larger expos. These events have helped me make significant sales while also benefiting from their marketing efforts, which add credibility to my brand—especially since Deb’s Trinket Box is still in its early stages. Additionally, my advisor keeps me informed about various opportunities, ensuring that I can continuously participate and grow. The support has been invaluable in helping me establish my business and build connections in the market.” 

Fatima Chi, L3G’s & Associates

“SBDC has provided a wide array of opportunities of enhancing my knowledge through trainings, networking and opportunities to present the feasibility of my business which has provided me with chances to win grants to re-invest in my business.” 

Wendy Rosales, 501 Bae

“SBDCBELIZE has tremendously impacted me as an entrepreneur, equipping me with the essential skill sets needed for leadership, access to valuable information, and the opportunity to expand my network. The training sessions have been exceptional, and my advisor, Marty, has been incredibly supportive. He consistently follows up with me, checking in to ensure I’m on track, offering encouragement, and always addressing matters promptly. His coaching has been invaluable, and his motivational approach keeps me driven toward my goals.” 

FAQs

What is the Small Business Development Centre, Belize?

The SBDCBelize, is a unit of BELTRAIDE providing one on one confidential, and needs based business consulting and free or low-cost training in proven management fundamentals, helping small business owners and potential entrepreneurs to make sounddecisions for the successful operation of their business. SBDCBelize opened its doors on November 1st, 2012.

How can SBDCBelize help someone just thinking of starting a business?

The SBDCBelize offers Entrepreneurial Assessment, Pre-Business, and Business Planning workshops for those individuals who want general information on starting a business, or who are in the initial start-up phase. SBDC Business Advisors can then help you with the details of turning your plan into a successful reality.

Do you have to be in business to use the services of SBDCBelize?

No. You only have to be considering the idea of opening a business or researching the feasibility of a proposed profit-making venture. This is where our team will assist you along your entrepreneurial journey if it proves to be viable business venture.

My business has been established for some time. How can the SBDCBelize help me?

SBDCBelize provides an array of consulting services to established businesses, including one-on-one consulting in business planning, marketing and promotion, financial analysis, accounting, record keeping, human resources, strategic planning, and new market diversification. In addition, we work along with EXPORTBelize in providing technical assistance regarding trading products and services with clients who are export ready. The Small Business Development Centre, Belize helps businesses in all stages.

What can I expect from my SBDC Business Advisor?

At your initial meeting, your Business Advisor will introduce you to services offered by the center placing high emphasis on confidentiality. During this meeting, your Business Advisor will also review your business needs or proposal, determine a course of action, and identify areas that both of you will be responsible for completing. Your Business Advisor will then follow up with a D6-Project Action Agreement form detailing your meeting and listing the items that both of you will be working on, along with an estimated time frame for completion, and anticipated
outcomes.

Does SBDCBelize charge for its services?

No. The business advisory and technical assistance services are provided at no charge to the client. Nominal fees are generally charged for training workshop.

What type of training programs do you offer?

The Small Business Development Centre Belize, has rolling training calendar that has a training taking place every Thursday in the year. Training carry a nominal fees based on the level of training. Most introductory training are free of cost. Such trainings include but are not limited to:

    • Business Plan Development
    • Establishing a Business in Belize
    • Financial: Accounting, Basic-Bookkeeping
    • Marketing & Sales
    • Human Resource Management
    • Production Management
    • Customer Service
What are the benefits of becoming a client?

When you become a client you will be assigned a Business Advisor that will offer business advisory services to meet the needs of your business after an initial assessment is done. Our dedicated team will offer support in the form of technical assistance and research based on the growing needs of your business.

Are only clients of Belize City and surrounding the focus of the center?

No. We do client outreach from time to time to follow up out district.

RESOURCES

Our Clients
Your Business Tools
MEP

Get in touch

Let us help you!

    Call Us

    +(501) 280-3195

    Drop us a line

    sbdc@beltraide.bz
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