Digital Transformation And Inclusion Project

Digital Inclusion Project – Seniors Business & IT Centre

Project Goals:

Assist BARP Members with the transition to a digital economy, increase motivation for technology use
and teach the skills needed to access the digital world.

Project Benefits & Strategy:

The project will benefit the Members of BARP which currently stands at over 22,000 active members.
Training, which will include an extensive hands-on programme titled ‘IT for Everyday Use” will be
facilitated through a partnership with BIMAP.

The programme will be aimed at helping seniors develop digital skills and competence in an
environment that caters to their specific needs and will be inclusive as special equipment for the visually
impaired will form part of the equipment available for use.

The LBCL at BARP will provide BARP members access to computers, tablets and other electronic devices
as well as high speed internet.

As part of the project it has been proposed to include BPWCCUL and BARP has agreed to permit the
Mobile Financial Unit to visit the BARP location to provide services to BARP Members and BPWCCUL
Members in the surrounding communities. BPWCCUL will also be provided with the opportunity to
teach BARP/BPWCCUL Members how to use the ATM, online banking and any other digital service
provided.

Why Fund this Project?

The Foundation decided to partner with BARP on this project since BARP is recognized as the leader in
championing the wellbeing of senior members of the Barbadian society. BARP through its interactions
with its members recognized the need to assist in the transition to a digital economy, therefore
empowering its members and teaching them new skills by way of this new business centre.

The Foundation under its mandate and funding criteria decided that this project, a business centre for
seniors is a valuable investment that can benefit both the older population and the society as a whole.

Seniors have a wealth of experience, knowledge and skills that can be leveraged to create new
opportunities, products and services. A business centre for seniors can provide them with the resources,
support and guidance they need as the country undergoes a digital transformation. It can help seniors
overcome the barriers they face in accessing finance, technology, markets and networks and offer
training, mentoring, coaching and consulting services to improve their skills and knowledge. By doing so,
seniors can enhance their income, well-being and social inclusion, as well as contribute to the economic
development and innovation of the community.

Therefore, providing funding for the Legacy Foundation / BARP Members Business Centre is a
worthwhile and strategic decision that can generate positive outcomes for everyone involved.