OECS Commission Launches 2nd Call for Proposals for Window 1 for the Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme
The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission is pleased to announce the official launch of the 2nd Call for Proposals for Window 1 for The Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme, taking place virtually on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. This initiative presents a golden opportunity for Blue Economy Entrepreneurs.
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating in Fisheries, Marine Tourism, and Waste Management now have the chance to strengthen and expand their businesses with grant funding ranging from USD $5,000 to $25,000. This opportunity is part of The OECS’ Unleashing the Blue Economy of the Caribbean (UBEC) Project. The OECS Commission’s UBEC project is a World Bank-funded and OECS-managed initiative that is already transforming businesses and improving livelihoods in Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent & the Grenadines. MSMEs in the three participating islands have already been awarded grants from the previous call of the Window 1 Call for Proposals earlier in 2025.
UBEC’s Senior Grants Advisor, Kyle Garnes comments on the regional impact of the funding initiative,
“The Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme continues to make significant strides in advancing blue economy efforts within the OECS. To date, 28 grants valued at over USD $500,000 have been awarded to MSMEs in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, and Saint Lucia. In addition, the Programme has begun delivering tailored capacity-building and training services to MSMEs in waste management, fisheries, and tourism. Training has already commenced in Saint Lucia, with more than 25 MSMEs actively participating, while rollouts in Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are scheduled for the weeks of October 13th, 2025 and October 20th, 2025, respectively.”
At the launch, UBEC will also highlight the inspiring stories of past grant recipients whose businesses are poised for new levels of growth thanks to the programme’s support.
Who Can Apply?
Individual MSMEs in Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent & the Grenadines may be eligible if they:
- Are legally registered and operating in one of the three participating islands.
- Provide business registration or fisherfolk identification.
- Have been in operation for at least two (2) years, with supporting financial or bank statements.
The grant programme is designed to help MSMEs grow, improve productivity, extend market reach, create jobs (especially for women), and build resilience, all while contributing to a stronger and more sustainable Blue Economy.
The OECS Commission urges all eligible MSMEs not to stand by while this opportunity is available.
Join the Launch Event
The official Virtual Launch Webinar takes place on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. This is the moment to learn more about the application process, eligibility criteria, and the many ways the programme can support your growth.
About the Programme
The Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme is a flagship component of the Unleashing the Blue Economy of the Caribbean (UBEC) Project, which seeks to strengthen blue economy value chains, promote sustainable entrepreneurship, and improve livelihoods across the OECS. By supporting MSMEs in fisheries, marine tourism, and waste management, the programme not only drives economic growth but also contributes to environmental sustainability and food security.
Funded by the World Bank and implemented by the OECS Commission’s Economic Affairs and Regional Integration Division and Environmental Sustainability Division, UBEC is building a resilient, competitive, and sustainable Blue Economy across the Eastern Caribbean.
Don’t miss out. Your business could be the next success story.
Learn how to apply and join the webinar by clicking the link below;
Jacques Hinkson-Compton
OECS Communications Unit