• Participants discussed the role of the private sector in scaling impact to boost sustainable growth in the country

Paramaribo – The IDB Invest Caribbean Series: Suriname Edition took place in Paramaribo, Suriname last week, welcoming participants and emphasizing the crucial role of the private sector in Suriname's economic development. Held at Torarica Hotel , the event brought together industry leaders, private sector companies, and entrepreneurs to explore the potential for collaboration and innovation in driving sustainable growth in the country.

Adriana La Valley, Country Representative of the Inter-American Development Bank Group, expressed gratitude to all attendees for their presence and acknowledged the significance of the private sector as a pillar of Suriname's country strategy. La Valley emphasized the positive impact of IDB Invest, the private sector arm of the IDB Group. "We are committed to supporting businesses, fostering innovation, and boosting growth through the private sector. The IDB Invest Caribbean Series is an important forum to create opportunities for investment in Suriname and across our region."

“The IDB Invest Caribbean Series is an invaluable opportunity to connect with the private sector in Suriname,” said Marisela Alvarenga, Managing Director of the Financial Intermediaries Division of IDB Invest. “We want companies of Suriname to know they have a partner to scale sustainable impact in the country. This initiative is designed to support local private sector needs and expand its activities in Suriname.”

The day's agenda showcased a range of topics, offering valuable insights and networking opportunities. The sessions included discussions on IDB Invest's strategy and value proposition, the role of private equity and private debt in the Caribbean, Suriname's payment system and financial inclusion, corporate strategies, achieving impact through corporate governance, technical assistance, integrity risk management, and fostering innovation through the IDB Lab, the IDB Group’s innovation laboratory.

Participants had the opportunity to engage in a fruitful dialogue with experts in various fields, including Marisela Alvarenga, Managing Director of Financial Intermediaries Division of IDB Invest; Stephen Thomas, Director of Financial Sector of IDB Invest; Lucas de Beaufort, Lead Officer of Investment Funds; Nawien Avinash Ghisiawan, Lead Invesment Officer in Suriname; Joao Wong A Foe, FinTech Coordinator at Centrale Bank van Suriname; and Diego Herrera, Lead Specialist of the Connectivity, Markets, and Finance Division of the Inter-American Development Bank.

The discussions centered around fostering innovation, enhancing financial inclusion, and leveraging digitalization to drive Suriname's economic development.

The IDB Invest Caribbean Series represents the commitment of the IDB Group and its partners to support Suriname's private sector, empowering local businesses and driving sustainable growth. The event showcased the impact of IDB Invest's work in Suriname and highlighted its contribution to the region.

The connections made and the knowledge shared during the IDB Invest Caribbean Series is expected to serve as a catalyst for meaningful partnerships, further advancing Suriname's economic landscape.

About IDB Invest

IDB Invest, a member of the Inter-American Development Bank Group, is a multilateral development bank committed to promoting the economic development of its member countries in Latin America and the Caribbean through the private sector. IDB Invest finances sustainable companies and projects to achieve financial results and maximize economic, social and environmental development in the region. With a portfolio of $16.33 billion in assets under management and 394 clients in 25 countries, IDB Invest provides innovative financial solutions and advisory services that meet the needs of its clients in a variety of industries.