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.