Vicctf Free From Government Interference
The Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund (VICCTF) says it operates independently, with the board selected through a public process and day-to-day operations kept separate from government. CEO Emmanuel confirmed the fund holds roughly $6 million (40% of levy proceeds) and is launching stakeholder consultations from July 20–24 ahead of its first Call for Proposals in August–September 2026.
The Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund (VICCTF) is operating independently of government direction, CEO Emmanuel told listeners on Umoja on ZBVI 780 AM on July 16, 2026. Established by an act of the legislature, the Trust is governed by a board whose members are chosen through a public nomination and selection process and then presented to the minister responsible for climate change for consideration and approval, Emmanuel said.
While the minister appoints the board, he stressed that government entities do not make the Trust’s operational decisions. “We have to submit reports to the minister to parliament, et cetera, to ensure that as per statute, we are doing what the law has required us to do, but the government does not get involved in the day-to-day operations or decisions of the trust,” Emmanuel said.
Emmanuel also outlined the Trust’s initial business plan: deploy an initial tranche of funds to address urgent needs while investing the remainder to build and protect long-term resources. To date, the fund has received roughly $6 million — the portion the Trust is custodian of — representing about 40 percent of levy proceeds, he said.
The remaining 60 percent has been allocated to tourism interests and the National Trust. VICCTF is now inviting organisations to submit proposals for eligible community projects. To engage stakeholders and gather input ahead of the first Call for Proposals (CFP 2026-01), the Trust will hold a series of consultations across the Territory from July 20 to 24, 2026.
The CFP is scheduled to launch in August–September 2026. For BVI residents, the consultations present an opportunity to learn what types of projects the Trust will fund and how community groups, NGOs, and other organisations can apply. While the Trust has not published a detailed list of eligible project types in Emmanuel’s remarks, climate funds typically support initiatives in coastal protection, water management, disaster resilience, and ecosystem restoration — areas that directly affect the Territory’s communities and economy.
Emmanuel’s comments aim to reassure the public about the Trust’s statutory independence and transparency, while signalling that resources are being readied for immediate community needs and long-term resilience. Residents and organisations should monitor official VICCTF announcements and local media for consultation locations, application guidelines, and deadlines when the CFP is released.
Primary source: VINO