Valuable information session ‘Insights by RVO’, about subsidies and instruments

Bonaire, April 3, 2025 – On Thursday, April 3, 2025, the Bonaire Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), organized an information session for entrepreneurs from Bonaire. The English session, called ‘Insights by RVO’, offered entrepreneurs valuable insights into the subsidies and instruments available for export activities outside the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

During the session, Ms. Soelan Daal, advisor international entrepreneurship at RVO, gave a detailed explanation of the various subsidy options and the conditions for applying for these subsidies. The entrepreneurs also gained insight into the application process and how they can get in touch with an advisor for further guidance.

An important part of the session was the presentation by Alvin Obersi, a local entrepreneur who shared his experiences with export. Obersi spoke about his own export trajectory and gave practical tips and advice to the entrepreneurs present.

The meeting attracted approximately 20 entrepreneurs, many of whom are already active in export or plan to do so in the future. The entrepreneurs indicated that there is a particular need for subsidies for transportation costs. This stems from the logistical challenges that entrepreneurs on Bonaire experience, which drives up transportation costs and hinders them in their search for new markets. The floor suggested setting up a platform or regular meetings.

The special envoy, Mr. Edison Rijna, who was also present at the session, indicated that a report had recently been published on the logistical challenges between Colombia and Bonaire.

Phar Martha, director of the Bonaire Chamber of Commerce, agreed with the floor’s idea that by organizing meetings or setting up a platform, ideas can be exchanged with each other. And this can lead to concrete proposals that can lead to solutions for the logistical obstacles.

The Bonaire Chamber of Commerce emphasizes its commitment to support and inform entrepreneurs on Bonaire, together with its partners, about export opportunities, as well as about the logistical obstacles that hinder them in entering new markets.

Would you like to stay informed about the workshops, courses or projects that the Bonaire Chamber of Commerce and Industry will be offering this year? Then we invite you to keep an eye on our website and our Facebook page.

You can also contact the Chamber of Commerce at 717-5595 or send an email to bis@kvkbonaire.com