Dr. Nicole Grimes, founder and CEO of Carib Biz Network (CBN), reflects on 2025 as a year marked by growth, bold risks, and significant milestones for her platform, which amplifies Caribbean entrepreneurs and creatives across the diaspora.
“Our intention has always been to amplify, to celebrate, and to educate the small business and creative community,” Grimes told Caribbean Life. “While virtual programming has been an important touchpoint, our live events are about bringing people together to network, collaborate, and support one another.”
CBN, which has produced over 25 free digital education sessions through its “Lunch & Learn” series, expanded its community-building efforts this year with a diverse calendar of events.
In March, CBN hosted Wi Bold + Beautiful, spotlighting Caribbean women in business. That was followed by Art & Canvas in Trinidad and Tobago, a creative pitch competition that landed winners in corporate partnerships with global brands, including Microsoft. Other highlights included two Chelsea Market pop-ups in Manhattan, a showcase at the Trinidad and Tobago Embassy in Washington, DC that attracted more than 9,000 visitors, and the debut of CBN Boss Men Edition, celebrating Caribbean men in business. The organization also continued its partnership with JPMorgan Chase, hosting financial literacy and marketing workshops for small business owners of Caribbean heritage.
But the standout this year, Grimes said, was Wi Style, a fashion and beauty event launched during New York Fashion Week. “I wanted to create a space to celebrate all the talented people in fashion and beauty, many right here in New York,” she said. Pulled together in just two and a half weeks, the event featured designers, models, stylists, and entrepreneurs while also offering educational and business development opportunities.
“It didn’t have to be perfect, I just had to start,” Grimes admitted, noting the event exceeded expectations. “It really elevated Caribbean talent and gave us the visibility we deserve.”
Looking ahead, Grimes is focused on Island Icons Honours 2025, scheduled for Nov. 6. Now in its second year, the awards ceremony will expand its scope to honor leaders across the U.S. and Canada. “Island Icons is about creating a space where Caribbean people can dress up, connect, and celebrate the risks and sacrifices that have led to greatness,” she said.
Beyond events, CBN has also reached new business milestones, earning certifications as a minority- and woman-owned business in New York City, New York State, and New Jersey, with federal certification pending.
For Grimes, the year reflects both progress and purpose. “Community is at the heart of what we do,” she said. “The growth we’ve seen this year shows that Caribbean entrepreneurs and creatives not only want to be celebrated, but also want to support each other in building lasting legacies.”
