The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission, through the Unleashing the Blue Economy of the Caribbean (UBEC) Project, officially launched the 2nd Call for Proposals for Window 1 of the Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme on Friday, October 17, 2025, during a virtual event attended by entrepreneurs, policymakers, and development partners.

This launch follows the successful completion of the first call, which saw 28 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent & the Grenadines receive grant funding to strengthen their operations and drive growth within the region’s Blue Economy.

The Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme (MGP) serves as a financing mechanism designed to support MSMEs in the Fisheries, Marine Tourism, and Waste Management sectors. It provides funding to help enterprises expand production, enhance sustainability, adopt new technologies, and build resilience to climate and market challenges.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, MSMEs must:
​1️. Be legally registered and operating in Grenada, Saint Lucia, or Saint Vincent & the Grenadines.
​2️. Provide proof of registration (Articles of Incorporation or Business Name Certificate).
​3️. Have been in operation for at least two (2) years.
​4️. Employ fewer than 50 people and generate less than USD $1,000,000 annually.

Successful applicants can access grants ranging from USD $5,000 to $25,000 under Window 1.

Important Deadlines

📅 Deadline to Submit Applications: November 21, 2025, at 11:59 PM
​📅 Deadline to Request Clarifications: November 13, 2025, at 5:00 PM

Upcoming Virtual Information Sessions

Two Virtual Information Sessions will be hosted by the MGP Unit to provide MSMEs with detailed guidance on the application process, eligibility, and required documentation.

🗓️ Session 1: Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 10:00 AM
​🔗 https://bit.ly/3JcroKW

🗓️ Session 2: Monday, November 10, 2025, at 10:00 AM
​

These sessions are open to all eligible MSMEs interested in applying for funding under the 2nd Call for Proposals.

Senior Grants Advisor, Kyle Garnes emphasised the wide-ranging benefits of the Matching Grants Programme,

“We see the Matching Grants Programme as a financing mechanism with a plethora of opportunities. There is scope for entrepreneurs to increase employment and job opportunities, scope for us to increase productivity, promote innovation, build resilience, and of course stimulate economic recovery post-COVID-19.”

UBEC Project Manager, Farzana Yusuf-Leon, explained that the programme’s core objective is to create sustainable growth while safeguarding the marine environment.

“The goal is straightforward. To promote economic growth, enhance livelihoods, and generate sustainable jobs, all while preserving the health of our ocean eco-systems. As a key financing mechanism under Component 2 of UBEC, it is designed to fuel private sector-led growth and investment in innovative, climate resilient blue economy activities.”

Head of the Environmental Sustainability Division at the OECS Commission, Chamberlain Emmanuel, stated,

“The OECS Commission remains steadfast in its vision towards a model blue economy region. With a mission to ensure that every entrepreneur with an interest in a bluer, more resilient Caribbean has the opportunity to make it a reality.”

Senior Environmental Specialist at the World Bank, Natalia Magradze, recognised the strength of the OECS Commission’s leadership in the project’s execution,

“Our shared vision, is to unlock the potential of marine coastal resources, drive sustainable growth and create new opportunities for communities and entrepreneurs. The shared vision is being realized through the OECS Commission’s strong leadership and deep collaboration with member states.”

The Importance of MSMEs in the Blue Economy

MSMEs are the backbone of the Eastern Caribbean economy, accounting for over 80% of all businesses, generating more than 50% of GDP, and providing over 70% of employment across the region. The Matching Grants Programme recognises its vital role and provides the financial and technical support needed to help these enterprises thrive.

Already, the Programme is transforming lives and reshaping the Blue Economy, empowering local entrepreneurs, boosting employment, and promoting sustainable growth in ocean-based industries.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The House of Parliament will hold a Public meeting on October 24, 2025. 

The Public meeting, which was adjourned on September 17, 2025, will be reconvened on Friday at 10.00 hrs. in the Legislative Hall at Wilhelminastraat #1 in Philipsburg.

The Minister of Finance will return to Parliament to answer the questions posed by Members of Parliament during the first round of deliberations on the draft National Ordinance containing rules for a basic payment account for consumers.

The agenda point is:

2. Ontwerplandsverordening houdende regels met betrekking tot een basisbetaalrekening voor consumenten (Landsverordening basisbetaalrekening) (Zittingsjaar 2023-2024-174) (IS/292/2023-2024 d.d. 20 december 2023)

Draft National Ordinance containing rules regarding a basic payment account for consumers (National Ordinance basic payment account) (Parliamentary year 2023-2024-174) (IS/292/2023-2024 dated 20 December 2023)

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations. All persons visiting the House of Parliament must adhere to the house rules.

The House of Parliament is located across from the courthouse in Philipsburg. 

The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on TV 15, Soualiga Headlines, via SXM GOV radio FM 107.9, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the internet www.youtube.com/c/SintMaartenParliament and www.pearlfmradio.sx

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Integrity Chamber presented its 2024 Annual Report to the Honourable Prime Minister, Dr. Luc Mercelina, on October 6, 2025. The report provides a summary of the Integrity Chamber's activities in 2024.

The year 2024 marked a significant turning point for the Integrity Chamber of Sint Maarten. Mr. G.R. (Rik) Bergman was appointed by Kingdom Decree per January 1st, 2024, for a term of three years on the binding recommendation of the founding members of the Integrity Chamber, Mr. R.A. (Rafael) Boasman and Mr. H.R. (Hans) Lodder. Additionally, the statutory term of Mr. Boasman and Mr. Lodder, both of whom first served as Quartermasters, then as members of the Integrity Chamber, drew to a close, and preparations began for the change in composition and their succession.

Notwithstanding these changes, the Chamber continued its promotion of open communication, advising on and assisting in the implementation of policies and procedures meant to strengthen the Government’s integrity infrastructure. A focal point remained the promotion of integrity to the public and the ongoing outreach and awareness, ensuring that the principles of transparency and accountability are seamlessly integrated into the fabric of our modern governance and that ethical standards are not only maintained but actively promoted.

In 2024, the Integrity Chamber provided advice to Government-owned companies on the role, responsibilities, and importance of the Compliance Officer within their organisation. Advice was also submitted to the Government and Parliament on the importance of implementing integrity norms and values in the screening process for Ministers, and emphasized the important role that Ministers play in upholding trust and confidence in the Government administration.

Five (5) notifications of suspected misconduct within Government institutions were reported to the Integrity Chamber. The notifications fell within various categories, including unwanted behaviours, unfair and non-transparent application of regulations, financial misconduct, and non-compliance with procurement procedures. The Chamber further received six (6) inquiries by persons and organisations requesting information concerning possible integrity issues.

From the submitted notifications, three (3) investigations were conducted. One (1) preliminary and two (2) full investigations.

Under the task of awareness, the Integrity Chamber conducted various activities, such as its third instalment of its “Let’s Talk About Integrity” video series, focusing on the theme, "Civic Participation and the Democratic System".  Additional awareness activities included a second round of student integrity sessions for sixth-grade students, integrity sessions for newly hired civil servants of the Government of Sint Maarten as part of the onboarding process, and two (2) separate integrity sessions for newly sworn-in Members of Parliament as part of their Orientation Weeks.

The Integrity Chamber is proud of the opportunity to serve the people of Sint Maarten and looks forward to the continued promotion of integrity in 2025 and beyond. 

The 2024 Annual Report of the Integrity Chamber can be obtained from the website at www.integritychamber.sx/publications, or via the button below.

PHILIPSBURG:--- During the evening hours of Friday, continuing into Saturday night and early Sunday morning (October 17th, 18th, 19th, 2025), a team of officers from the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) conducted a series of coordinated operations across several areas, including the Middle Region and A. Th: Illidge Road, Welfare Road, Maho, and the surrounding districts.

These proactive actions form part of KPSM’s ongoing efforts to maintain safety and security across the country. Officers focused on enforcing laws related to narcotics, illegal firearms, and other criminal activities that threaten community well-being.

In addition to street-level enforcement, the Control Team also inspected several businesses to ensure compliance with established closing hours and operational regulations. These inspections are intended to promote safety and public order within nightlife and commercial areas.

During the course of the operations, officers arrested two individuals who were found in possession of a stolen vehicle. One of the suspects involved is a minor. The vehicle has since been confiscated as part of the ongoing investigation.

KPSM continues to conduct such operations as part of its broader strategy to strengthen police visibility and presence across the island. Through these efforts, the Police Force aims to reassure the public, deter offenders, and foster stronger community cooperation.

KPSM is encouraging the public to help keep Sint Maarten safe. If you see something, say something. Members of the community are urged to report any suspicious or criminal activity by contacting the Police Station at +1 (721) 542-2222 or, in an emergency, calling 911. Anonymous tips can also be shared via the KPSM anonymous tip line.

The Police Force of Sint Maarten remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and visitors on the island.

KPSM Press Release.