Partnerships | UVI RTPark

The RTPark's success in driving economic and community development is deeply rooted in the robust partnerships we've established. These collaborations extend beyond business, forming the foundation of our engagement with the U.S. Virgin Islands community. Through community programs, educational collaborations, and mentorship opportunities, these alliances fuel innovation, create jobs, and provide pathways for local talent to thrive in the tech sector.

As we look to the future, we are filled with optimism and a renewed sense of purpose. We remain steadfast in our commitment to nurturing and growing these partnerships, while actively seeking new opportunities to collaborate and make a positive impact on our community.

University Partnership: Nurturing Talent, Building Futures

Our longstanding partnership with the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) has been pivotal to our mission of fostering both economic and community growth in the region. As RTPark’s headquarters are located on the UVI campus, this affiliation symbolizes our deep connection to the academic and local community. Together, we support programs that bridge the gap between education and industry, facilitating internship opportunities for UVI students through our Professional Pathways program and promoting entrepreneurship and research initiatives. These efforts are integral to cultivating the next generation of Virgin Islands tech talent.

Through legally binding agreements, RTPark firms collaborate with UVI across various areas, helping to build a dynamic and skilled workforce. These partnerships provide UVI students with internships, workplace learning experiences, and scholarships, while also supporting graduate employment. RTPark companies engage with UVI faculty, offer IT support and operational assistance, and contribute to special projects that enhance the university’s mission.

Supporting UVI Innovation

RTPark client agreements offer two key avenues for collaboration with UVI:

Annual Scholarships: Supporting students pursuing higher education.
Programmatic Commitments: Contributions to the UVI Innovation Fund, providing direct support for strategic projects identified by UVI’s leadership and approved by the UVI Board of Trustees.

These projects focus on innovation and development, aligning RTPark companies' expertise with the university's growth objectives.

Collaborative Engagement

Beyond financial contributions, our partnership with UVI is built on active engagement and collaboration. RTPark clients contribute by:

Offering student engagement opportunities such as internships, fellowships, and volunteer programs.
Providing scholarships to support academic achievement.
Engaging UVI faculty through joint research projects and curriculum development.
Supporting special projects identified by the university.
Offering operational and advisory support to UVI.
Participating in distinguished lectures, knowledge exchanges, and employment programs for U.S. Virgin Islands residents and UVI graduates.

Together with UVI, we also collaborate on innovation and entrepreneurship activities through the UVI Innovation Fund, helping to shape the future of education and workforce development. This strategic alliance continues to empower young innovators, provide research opportunities, and promote entrepreneurship, cementing UVI as a cornerstone of our efforts to drive sustainable economic growth in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Solar Program Partnership

As part of our dedication to sustainable development, RTPark is collaborating with the University of the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean Green Technology Center on a transformative solar energy project. A 423 kW solar farm is being installed at our headquarters on the UVI St. Croix campus, with completion expected by June 2025. This initiative, funded through a FEMA mitigation grant, reflects our commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing renewable energy solutions in the Virgin Islands.

The RTPark headquarters will serve as a living lab, where UVI students in the Renewable Energy Technology (RET) program will gain practical experience in solar energy system installation, energy auditing, and monitoring. The solar farm will not only power the RTPark building but also provide educational opportunities for students to apply new technologies and develop essential skills in the renewable energy sector. This partnership, supported by the Caribbean Green Technology Center, is a crucial step toward addressing the shortage of trained professionals in energy management and is a cornerstone of our efforts to create a skilled workforce capable of supporting the growth of renewable energy in the Territory.

VI Good Food Coalition

RTPark’s partnership with the VI Good Food Coalition reflects our commitment to sustainability and community well-being. Together, we promote sustainable and local food systems in the U.S. Virgin Islands, fostering a resilient, healthy food ecosystem. This collaboration also supports research and development in agriculture technology, ensuring that innovation plays a key role in the territory’s agricultural future.

U.S. Virgin Islands Small Business Administration (SBA)

Our partnership with the Small Business Administration (SBA) plays a crucial role in supporting small businesses across the territory. Through professional counseling, training, and expertise, we work together to boost economic growth and entrepreneurship. RTPark and the SBA are committed to ensuring that local small businesses thrive, driving forward our community-driven initiatives and empowering entrepreneurs in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Virgin Islands Small Business Development Center (VISBDC)

The Virgin Islands Small Business Development Center (VISBDC) is a cornerstone of our collaboration in supporting entrepreneurs. Their nationally accredited programs offer invaluable consulting services at no cost, helping businesses from inception to success. Through our partnership, RTPark and VISBDC work hand-in-hand to foster innovation, resilience, and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Chambers of Commerce

Our collaboration with the St. Croix Chamber of Commerce and the St. Thomas-St. John Chamber of Commerce is vital to promoting a pro-business environment in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Chambers advocate for policies that support economic development, energy solutions, and infrastructure improvements, all contributing to the overall growth of the territory. Beyond networking opportunities, our partnerships with the Chambers of Commerce provide platforms for businesses to thrive and grow within the community.

U.S. Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority (USVIEDA)

As a key agency driving economic development in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority (USVIEDA) is an essential partner in our mission. By aligning with USVIEDA, RTPark contributes to the overall business ecosystem, working together to build a strong foundation for economic growth. Through collaborative efforts with the Economic Development Commission and the Economic Development Bank, RTPark and USVIEDA streamline efforts to create a robust business environment that benefits the entire territory.

STEM Education Partnership: Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators

The RTPark is committed to fostering STEM education and creating pathways for young minds to explore technology, innovation, and science. Through our partnership with the Caribbean Center for Boys and Girls and the Boys and Girls Club of St. Thomas/St. John, we’ve developed programs that bring engaging, hands-on STEM curriculum and experiential learning opportunities to students across the Territory. Together with our partners, we aim to inspire a love for STEM among youth, especially in underserved communities, while preparing them for the careers of tomorrow.