Government Awards US$165,000 in Msme Grants to
The Government of the Virgin Islands has presented US$165,000 in MSME grants to 18 local business owners across Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke. The funding supports start-ups and expansions across diverse sectors, alongside business continuity and digital training backed by the Caribbean Development Bank.
The Government of the Virgin Islands has awarded US$165,000 in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) grants to 18 local business owners across the Territory. The awards were presented by the Department of Trade, Investment Promotion and Consumer Affairs during an official ceremony on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 (government press release; VINO; 284 Media).
The grant funding is designated to support start-up costs and business expansion across multiple sectors, including food services, tourism and tours, auto mechanics, plumbing, electrical services, catering, logistics, laundry, spa services, and senior care. Award recipients represent businesses on Tortola and Virgin Gorda, with this round marking the first time an MSME grant has been awarded to an enterprise on Jost Van Dyke.
The programme has previously provided grant assistance to businesses on Anegada (government press release; VINO; 284 Media). Smith, OBE, Minister responsible for Financial Services and Economic Development, highlighted the Territory's continued dedication to supporting local entrepreneurs.
She reiterated the government's commitment to facilitating all necessary assistance for small business growth, urging recipients to deliver high-quality services that reflect positively on the British Virgin Islands (government press release; 284 Media). Bobb characterized the grants as an essential investment in local business momentum.
Bobb stated that the grant funding represents a direct vote of confidence in the vision, hard work, and future of local entrepreneurs, describing them as the backbone of the economy as the government puts real capital behind their progress (government press release; 284 Media). Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation, Natalie J.
Fahie-Smith, urged awardees to manage their funds strategically. She emphasized that the financial support is intended to act as a catalyst for sustainable business growth, innovation, and job creation (VINO; 284 Media). Business Development Manager and Master of Ceremonies Leroy James also encouraged recipients to take full advantage of available mentorship and training offers (VINO).
In addition to direct financial awards, grant recipients have been invited to participate in the MSME Capacity Building Programme, supported by the Caribbean Development Bank. The training initiative provides development in digital marketing, financial management, and business continuity.
The Department of Trade confirmed it will maintain oversight on the use of funds while delivering continuous business development support to help local enterprises thrive (government press release; 284 Media).
Primary source: BVI Government