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The Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange (TTSE) SME Market Mentorship Programme is designed to provide potential issuers through a comprehensive programme that covers the key themes necessary to position a company to list on the TTSE. Industry professionals, who strategically develop their competencies, mentoring directly and contributing to the companies’ growth, innovation, and overall strategy, administer the Programme. It is geared to improve customer and investor confidence in the listed companies. The SME Market Mentorship Programme demonstrates the willingness of the TTSE to invest the time and resources necessary to assist companies to operate in an efficient manner on the stock market.

As part of its SME Market, the TTSE’s Mentorship Programme aims to provide SMEs with the guidance required to successfully transition and grow its business, whilst practicing good corporate governance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a Mentor appointed?

A Mentor is appointed by the SME to perform the functions and responsibilities of a Mentor in accordance with the TTSE SME Mentorship Rules having entered into an appropriate Mentorship Agreement with the SME. An Appointed Mentor must be an Approved Mentor.

Who can serve as a Mentor?

At a minimum, a Mentor must:

• Hold a valid Fit and Proper Certificate or Letter of No Objection issued by a local or foreign financial regulator; or
• Assessed as Fit and Proper by the TTSE.

Further details are outlined in the TTSE SME Market Rules.

How can the TTSE Mentorship programme help SMEs?

The TTSE SME Mentorship programme is an initiative that aims to strengthen the SME’s capacity to operate within general industry standards with respect to corporate governance, financial reporting and disclosure of material information. A Mentor can:

• Assist SMEs in entering the stock market;
• Diagnose gaps in compliance and corporate governance within the SME; and
• Review and enhance the governance and reporting structure to assist SMEs in operating as a public company.

Further information on the TTSE Mentorship programme can be obtained from the TTSE website

Where can I obtain a list of Approved Mentors?

A list of the Approved TTSE Mentors can be obtained on the TTSE’s website.

For further information, please visit the TTSE SME Market Mentorship Programme website: : 

TTSE SME Mentorship Form

Or contact TTSE via e-mail at smemarket@stockex.co.tt

The Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange (TTSE) SME Market Mentorship Programme is designed to provide potential issuers through a comprehensive programme that covers the key themes necessary to position a company to list on the TTSE. Industry professionals, who strategically develop their competencies, mentoring directly and contributing to the companies’ growth, innovation, and overall strategy, administer the Programme. It is geared to improve customer and investor confidence in the listed companies. The SME Market Mentorship Programme demonstrates the willingness of the TTSE to invest the time and resources necessary to assist companies to operate in an efficient manner on the stock market.

As part of its SME Market, the TTSE’s Mentorship Programme aims to provide SMEs with the guidance required to successfully transition and grow its business, whilst practicing good corporate governance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Mentor a mandatory requirement for listing on the TTSE SME Market?

Yes. Unless the TTSE agrees otherwise, an Eligible SME shall, prior to initial admission to the TTSE SME Market, engage the services of an Approved Mentor and Appointed Mentor.

What is the difference between an “Approved Mentor” and an “Appointed Mentor”?

An Approved Mentor is a person approved by the TTSE to perform the functions and responsibilities of a Mentor in accordance with the TTSE SME Mentorship Rules. This individual is included in the TTSE’s list of Approved Mentors.

An Appointed Mentor is a person appointed by an SME to perform the functions and responsibilities of a Mentor in accordance with the TTSE SME Mentorship Rules having entered into an appropriate Mentorship Agreement with the SME. An Appointed Mentor must be an Approved Mentor

Who can serve as a Mentor?

At a minimum, a Mentor must:

• Hold a valid Fit and Proper Certificate or Letter of No Objection issued by a local or foreign financial regulator; or
• Assessed as Fit and Proper by the TTSE.

Further details are outlined in the TTSE SME Market Rules.

Can an entity be a Mentor to a SME?

Yes.  An Entity can be a Mentor to an SME provided that  a Senior Officer within the Entity is appointed to act as an Appointed Mentor who shall at a minimum hold a valid Fit and Proper Certificate or Letter of No Objection issued by a local or foreign financial regulator or Assessed as Fit and Proper by the TTSE .

How many SMEs can an Approved Mentor simultaneously mentor?

An Approved Mentor may act simultaneously as an Appointed Mentor for up to two (2) SMEs.

Where can I obtain a list of Approved Mentors?

A list of the Approved TTSE Mentors can be obtained on the TTSE’s website. (stockex.co.tt).

How long is an SME required to have a Mentor?

The SME should engage the services of an Appointed Mentor for a period of no less than five (5) years.

Can an SME change its Appointed Mentor?

Yes

Can an Independent Director act as an Approved Mentor?

An Independent Director may be appointed to act as an Appointed Mentor only after an initial period of no less than three (3) years.

Are Appointed Mentors remunerated?

The decision to remunerate the Appointed Mentor shall be between the SME and the Appointed Mentor.

Is there a formal agreement between the SME and the Appointed Mentor?

Yes. Prior to listing on the SME Market, the Appointed Mentor and the SME shall enter into an Agreement. The TTSE will provide the SME with a Mentorship Agreement template.

What are the functions and responsibilities of an Appointed Mentor to an SME?

The Appointed Mentor’s functions and responsibilities shall be performed in compliance with, but not limited to, the Securities Act Chap 83:02, the Companies Act Chap 81:01, the TTSE Listing Rules, The Trinidad and Tobago Central Depository (TTCD) Rules and general industry standards with respect to corporate governance, financial reporting and disclosure of material information.

Are Approved Mentors subject to a renewal process by the TTSE?

Yes. An Appointed Mentor is required to submit a Fit and Proper Certificate or Letter of No Objection and a certified copy of a Certificate of Character to the TTSE within five (5) business days of the third anniversary of their appointment to maintain their approved status. The submission of the said required documentation will be subject to evaluation and thereafter a decision will be made on the renewal of the Approved Mentor who, shall then be notified accordingly of such decision.

Is the Appointed Mentor required to report his/her trades of the SME?

Yes. The Appointed Mentor must advise the SME if he/she or any person associated with him/her has executed any trades in the SME within five (5) business days of the transaction.

For further information, please visit the TTSE SME Market Mentorship Programme website: : 

TTSE SME Mentorship Form

Or contact TTSE via e-mail at smemarket@stockex.co.tt

This function involves planning and coordinating the execution of relevant training Programmes which build the capacity of exporters to increase export competitiveness, develop new exporters and increases access to new markets. ExporTT’s Training Unit focuses on building the capacity of Trinidad and Tobago Exporters to master the essentials of an effective export strategy.

Consultation – aimed at providing guidance and support for establishment of new ventures and support and growth of existing ventures.

Discussions and support of SMEs at varying levels toward identifying and taking advantage of potential opportunities that may arise.

Training – aimed at equipping MSMEs with the tools for sustainable development.

Hosting or facilitating training workshops and webinars in relevant topics

Expos and Trade Shows – aimed at providing access to retail opportunities

• National and Regional Expos e.g. TIC and Southex
• Hosting expos e.g. Finance Week Business Expo
• Support for and promotion of local expos/pop-up shops e.g. Tobago Island Market
• Facilitation and support of local participation in external shows in collaboration with key stakeholders e.g. U.S. Embassy (NRA Show), and local Embassies abroad e.g. Washington, London etc.

Marketing Support – aimed at enhancing brand awareness and market share

• Features on Facebook
• Engagement with potential retail outlets or other key stakeholders
• Engagement with media

Prior to funds being received from either the loan or grant Programmes, all clients must under-go training in basic bookkeeping, marketing, customer service and the statutory obligations.

NEDCO also offers Entrepreneurial Development Promotions. There are Entrepreneurial Development Packages which include both training and advisory services and access to webinars at a discounted rate. The combination of both support services has proven to assist our clients who are in the idea phase through to the practical start of their businesses. Loan Packages and specials are offered periodically for the boosting of operational small businesses, remodeling, relocations, technology upgrades and equipment upgrades.

NEDCO's Loan Client After-care support aims to provide developmental support for branch clients after the loans have been disbursed. This support service seeks to build on the client's management and business development skills to aid in improving their chances for success. The aftercare support service is designed for clients who have expressed a desire for one-on-one assistance with business operations or management, are dealing with financial management issues, or are new (start-up) or young entrepreneurs with little or no experience in the business.

NEDCO's pre-assessment is centered on the entrepreneur's management capabilities, financial strength, support network, operations and marketing potential. A review of the existing conditions to determine the prospective client's stage of readiness for financing. Whatever stage the clients are at, NEDCO offers support to help develop their business knowledge and operations. Obtaining a loan from NEDCO also includes after-sale services whereby clients are monitored and assistance is offered for their development and growth. A review of the business' operations post loan disbursement has proven to be a great tool for building sustainable MSEs.

Needs assessments are conducted especially for businesses facing a new issue like adjusting to the Covid-19 pandemic. NEDCO can employ a needs assessment to identify gaps in the business operations or management systems. Our value-added support services will guide the entrepreneur through the identified problems in a cost-effective and extremely helpful manner.

To access a business needs assessment, interested persons can contact a Business Advisor or email training@nedco.gov.tt

The Focus Group session is a working advisory session. The understanding is that persons in similar industries may need the same type of support as practically as possible. Different industry or common interest groups of five (5) persons to twenty-five (25) persons can access specialized tailored learning and problem­ solving sessions. Focus Group sessions are interactive wherein key business-related topics, tips, tools, and techniques relevant to the specified industry are explored in a relaxed learning environment.

Business advisory is a consultancy service specifically geared towards helping MSEs solve problems and grow their business. Every new and growing entrepreneur will need guidance, motivation, emotional support and practical solutions for common entrepreneurial dilemmas along their entrepreneurial journey. Our Business Advisors give advice and practical support to new businesses start­ ups and established businesses in an array of areas including, but not limited to, Business Plans, Marketing, Financial Management, Competitive Strategies, Goal Setting, Business Registration and Records  Management.

Each session is one (1) hour long. Clients can expect:

• A. Individual attention with a knowledgeable advisor.
• B. Suitable recommendations or action points to direct your business further.
• C. Recommendations for follow-up sessions.
• D. Referrals for NEDCO’s Training and Lending Services.

To book an appointment with a Business Advisor you can register via NEDCO’s website or email training@nedco.gov.tt. The price to book an advisory session is $100.00 and must be paid before your appointment is confirmed.

NEDCO offers a free Webinar series and Public Education sessions for potential, new and growing micro and small businesses. Each month we host an information-packed webinar on key and current business topics. Our webinars are interactive hour-long virtual training sessions. Coupled with our webinars, NEDCO's Public Education Sessions are geared to introduce youths, communities and groups to the entrepreneurial landscape and small business ownership as a viable option for sustainable income. The main focus of these presentations is the development of an entrepreneurial mindset.

NEDCO,  in  collaboration  with  the ILO, offers  one  of  the  largest  global  business management   training   Programmes.   The strategic  focus  of  this  programme   is  to assist   small-scale   entrepreneurs   to  start and    grow    their    businesses    and    by extension   create  improved   employment. SIYB   is   an   adaptable   and   simplistic programme  that  can  be  efficiently  rolled out  to  a  large  number  of  entrepreneurs. This  training  mechanism  also  allows  an Entrepreneurial   Trainee  to  be  supported through   the   growth   phases.   Being   all­ encompassing  an  entrepreneurial  trainee can  obtain  training  and  support  from  the generation  of  the  business  idea,  start-ups including   initial   and   periodic   business planning  of the idea, building of the start­ up   after  the   1st  year  of  operation  and expansion of the business  and scale-up of operations.

NEDCO offers integrated learning capabilities for the practical teaching of core business principles and best practices. NEDCO's custom-made, skills training programmes are designed and delivered to address the key issues identified by the needs analysis criteria. Training intervention takes the form of one (I ) day workshops comprising three (3) to six (6) contact hours for each training course. The training programmes are administered by well-trained facilitators who will educate and empower the entrepreneurs. At the end of each course, the participants can demonstrate the identified objectives and practical action points.

NEDCO offers integrated learning capabilities for the practical teaching of core business principles and best practices. NEDCO's custom-made, skills training Programmes are designed and delivered to address the key issues identified by the needs analysis criteria. Training intervention takes the form of one (1) day workshops comprising three (3) to six (6) contact hours for each training course. The training Programmes are administered by well-trained facilitators who will educate and empower the entrepreneurs. At the end of each course, the participants are able to demonstrate the identified objectives and practical action points. Current workshops offered are:

1. Business Taxation/Know your Taxes
2. Business Etiquette and Protocol
3. Costing and Pricing
4. Developing a Business Plan
5. Excellence in Customer Service
6. Information Technology
7. Innovation and Creativity in Entrepreneurship
8. Managing Staff
9. Record Keeping and Cash Management
10. Steps to Starting your Business
11. Tendering for Contracts
12. Negotiating Tips and Techniques
13. Facilities Management
14. Marketing for SMEs
15. Social Media Strategy
16. Competitive Strategy
17. Customer Relationship Management
18. Corporate Governance
19. Digital Transformation for MSEs

To access a training workshop, clients can register via NEDCO’s website or send an email to training@nedco.gov.tt.

The Business Accelerator Programme is a 5-year initiative extending from the Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP). All tools in the Business Accelerator Programme are geared toward the practical development of a start-up, micro or small business. This programme integrates loan funding, training, advisory, mentorship, networking and other support services into comprehensive and customized business development packages for selected entrepreneurs. The Business Accelerator is structured to span a period of twelve (12) months with the possibility of six (6) additional months for an aggregate time of eighteen (18) months. This programme is conducted in partnership with other institutions. Applicants must be 18 years or older; a citizen or resident of Trinidad and Tobago and a past or current member of any of the Partner Institutions aligned to NEDCO. Participation in NEDCO’s BAP is free of charge to the participant. Interested persons with a business and/or a business idea, can apply for the NEDCO’s BAP through a partner institution. As a participant of NEDCO’s BAP you will have access to:

• Business Development Training
• Business Advisory and Mentorship
• Industry specific training
• Focus Group Analysis of products and services
• Networking
• Access to Loan Funding for seed and growth capital
• Access to product development and technical facilities
• Access to commercialization of innovative products

All applications must undergo an evaluation interview by NEDCO. Successful applicants will be contacted via a NEDCO representative. Once accepted, full participation is required by attending meetings, training, advisory and networking sessions. Participants are expected to apply the training, advice and other support tools to their businesses.