Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) operating as value chain groups across three Eastern Caribbean nations have been given more time to apply for funding under the Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme. According to Antigua News Room, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission has extended the application deadline for the Second Call for Proposals under Window 2 of the programme to Friday, July 24, 2026.
The programme is an initiative of the Unleashing the Blue Economy of the Caribbean (UBEC) project, managed by the OECS Commission. The deadline extension gives Blue Economy Value Chain Groups in Grenada, Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines additional time to submit proposals and access grant funding designed to strengthen collaboration, innovation and sustainable economic growth within the Blue Economy.
Window 2 specifically supports Value Chain Groups comprising three or more MSMEs that work together to create greater collective value than they could achieve individually. Through collaboration, businesses can improve efficiency, increase market access, reduce costs, strengthen resilience and unlock new growth opportunities. The OECS Commission is particularly encouraging women entrepreneurs to apply, noting that women continue to play a vital role across the fisheries, marine tourism and waste management sectors as business owners, innovators and community leaders.
The programme has already demonstrated measurable impact across the region. Through previous calls for proposals, grant recipients have invested in new equipment, expanded production, improved operational efficiency, diversified their products and services, strengthened climate resilience and created new employment opportunities within their communities. From sustainable marine tourism enterprises and innovative waste management businesses to fisheries and aquaculture ventures, funded MSMEs have shown that targeted investment leads to stronger businesses, healthier coastal economies and more resilient communities.
The OECS Commission is urging eligible businesses not to wait until the final days of the window. The extension, it noted, provides valuable additional time to refine proposals, gather supporting documentation and build the strategic partnerships needed to deliver lasting economic benefits.
The Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme is implemented by the OECS Commission with funding from the World Bank through the PROBLUE multi-donor trust fund.
The application deadline is Friday, July 24, 2026. Businesses may apply online at https://bit.ly/4dh0ZX9. For further information, contact [email protected], or submit completed applications to [email protected].
