Central Bank of Barbados Spreading the Word About BiMPay

As the March 31 go-live date for BiMPay, the Central Bank of Barbados' national instant payment system approaches, the organisation is ramping up its in-person outreach. In recent weeks, teams from the Bank have made their presence felt at two popular events, Brighton Farmers Market and the Barbados Horticultural Society's Annual Flower Show.

"From the beginning, we've said that we'll be getting out there to spread the word about BiMPay, and these are the perfect place to do it. Both the farmers market and the flower show have lots of vendors and small business owners selling their products, and those are among the people who will benefit most from BiMPay. Them being able to accept electronic payments means not missing a sale because the would-be customer doesn't have enough cash," said Novaline Brewster, the Bank's Director of Communications, Information, and Outreach.

Brewster said the feedback the Bank received on both occasions was very positive. "Our strategy was to have a team manning a booth that patrons could visit to have their questions answered as well as a roving team that goes to speak with the vendors. Both groups have found the same thing; most people have heard about BiMPay and are interested in it. Some people say they can't wait and that they wish it were available now. Some wanted more information, and when they got it, they liked what they heard.

"The story has been the same every time we've gone out and interacted with people." 

In September, the Bank took part in the Small Business Association's Small Business Week roadshow, which had stops in communities in St. James, St. Andrew, and St. Peter. Then, in November, it visited city businesses as part of its Bridgetown Walk. "Wherever we go, people are excited about the convenience of being able to receive payments from anyone in Barbados within 10 seconds, any time of day, any day of the year. They're excited about the other features as well: the simplicity of using a phone number or email address or to scan a QR code and pay. They're ready for BiMPay."

Brewster also revealed where the Bank's team would be headed to next. "We'll be at Holetown Festival and at Laff It Off. And we have other activities planned. Our goal is to ensure everyone understands BiMPay and is ready to embrace it when it rolls out."