OECS Commission Opens Window 2 Call for Proposals for the Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme

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, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The call for proposals opened on February 12, 2025, at 10:30 AM during a virtual event hosted via Zoom, and submissions will be accepted until March 19, 2025, at 11:00 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 $100,000 to $200,000 USD to support groups of at least three MSMEs working together to create stronger market linkages, increase productivity, and drive sustainable economic growth.

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Supporting Sustainable Growth in the Blue Economy

The OECS Commission recognizes 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 optimizing 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 three MSMEs within the following industries:

To qualify, each MSME in the value chain group must be legally registered, have been operating for at least two 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:

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Upcoming Virtual Information Sessions

To support potential applicants, the OECS Commission will host two virtual information sessions where businesses can ask questions and gain clarity on the application process:

📅 February 21, 2025 – 10:00 AM
​📅 February 28, 2025 – 10:00 AM

Registration Link: https://oecscommission.zoom.us/meeting/register/bD7DKaBcSQqVfsfxztS9Rw

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How to Apply

📌 Application Deadline: March 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM
​📌 Submit Applications Online: https://shorturl.at/FNRW0
​📌 For More Information: Visit www.oecs.int or email ubecgrant@oecs.int

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.

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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.

Window 2 of the Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme is Now Open!

🌊 Exciting News! Window 2 of the Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme is Now Open! 🚀 Meet Brian Walker, a dedicated sea moss farmer from Saint Lucia, as he shares the challenges of working in the Blue Economy. From unpredictable weather to access to resources, small businesses like his often face hurdles in growing and thriving. 🌱🌊 With the Window 2 Call for Proposals, MSMEs in fisheries, marine tourism, and waste management in Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent & the Grenadines can now access funding and support to scale up their businesses! 📽️ Watch the video to learn how this programme can help entrepreneurs like Brian and how you can apply today. 🔗 Click the link to apply: https://shorturl.at/FNRW0 For more information, email ubecgrant@oecs.int. Or check out our website www.oecs.int 📅 Don’t miss out—apply now and take your Blue Economy business to the next level! #MSMEMatchingGrants #BlueEconomy #FundingOpportunities #Fisheries #MarineTourism #WasteManagement #SmallBusinessSupport #SustainableGrowth 🌱🌊

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