The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission has officially launched Window 2 of the Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme, a significant funding opportunity designed to strengthen Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating within the Blue Economy in Grenada, St Lucia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines.
The call for proposals opened on 12 February 2025 at 10:30 am during a virtual event hosted via Zoom and submissions will be accepted until 19 March 2025 at 11 am.
This initiative, a key component of the Unleashing the Blue Economy of the Eastern Caribbean (UBEC) Project, aims to foster collaboration, innovation, and competitiveness among value chain groups within the fisheries, marine/coastal tourism, and waste management sectors. Window 2 offers grants ranging from US$100,000 to US$200,000 to support groups of at least 3 MSMEs working together to create stronger market linkages, increase productivity, and drive sustainable economic growth.
Supporting Sustainable Growth in the Blue Economy
The OECS Commission recognises the critical role of MSMEs in maintaining and enhancing the Caribbean’s marine and coastal assets. Through the Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme, businesses will receive support to enhance operations, develop sustainable solutions, and drive regional economic development. The grants will assist eligible value chain groups in implementing climate-resilient and innovative business practices to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Caribbean’s Blue Economy.
What is a Value Chain Group?
A value chain group refers to a network of businesses working together to improve production, distribution, and sustainability in their sector. In the Blue Economy, these groups play a vital role in optimising the fisheries, marine tourism, and waste management industries, ensuring better resource management, increased market access, and stronger economic impact.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants must be existing value chain groups consisting of a minimum of 3 MSMEs within the following industries:
- Fisheries: Fish processing and packaging businesses, seafood distribution, sustainable fishing enterprises
- Marine/Coastal Tourism: Eco-tourism operators, boat/yacht charter services, sustainable seafood restaurants
- Waste Management: Marine debris collection, plastic recycling initiatives, waste-to-energy startups
To qualify, each MSME in the value chain group must be legally registered, have been operating for at least 2 years, and maintain business bank accounts. Applicants must also sign an agreement affirming their commitment to collaborate and achieve project goals.
Who is Not Eligible?
The following groups cannot apply for the grant:
- Value chain groups without an MSME in the Blue Economy
- Groups that include public sector organisations or NGOs
- Groups with partners not registered in Grenada, St Lucia, or St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Groups submitting proposals outside of the Blue Economy sectors
Upcoming Virtual Information Sessions
To support potential applicants, the OECS Commission will host 2 virtual information sessions where businesses can ask questions and gain clarity on the application process:
- 21 February 2025 – 10 am
- 28 February 2025 – 10 am
Registration Link: https://oecscommission.zoom.us/meeting/register/bD7DKaBcSQqVfsfxztS9Rw
How to Apply
The OECS Commission remains committed to equipping blue economy MSMEs with the necessary tools, funding, and resources to thrive in a competitive and sustainable market.
About the Unleashing the Blue Economy of the Eastern Caribbean (UBEC) Project
The UBEC Project is a World Bank-funded initiative focused on advancing climate-resilient economies in the Eastern Caribbean. By supporting MSMEs in the fisheries, marine tourism, and waste management sectors, the project fosters sustainable business practices, economic opportunities, and regional collaboration to enhance the resilience of the Caribbean’s marine resources.
OECS
