Deadline today for submission to Window 1-Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme

THE ORGANISATION OF EASTERN CARIBBEAN STATES (OECS) Commission, through the Unleashing the Blue Economy of the Caribbean (UBEC) Project, has extended the deadline for Second Call Proposals under Window 1 of the Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme.

Originally scheduled to close on Friday, November 21, 2025, the application deadline has now been extended to 11:59 p.m today, Friday, December 5, 2025.

In a release the Commission said this extension offers welcome news and a second chance for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that may have missed the original deadline.

Eligible MSMEs operating in the Fisheries (including aquaculture), Marine Tourism, and Waste Management sectors in Grenada, St Lucia, and St Vincent & the Grenadines now have additional time to submit their applications and take advantage of this transformative opportunity.

The Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme provides funding support ranging from US$5,000 to $25,000 to help enterprises do the following:

• Upgrade equipment and facilities

• Improve production and processes

• Strengthen sustainability and resilience

• Expand market reach and competitiveness

•Build capacity through training and technical support.

Already, MSMEs awarded during the First Call for Proposals are experiencing significant improvements in operations, livelihoods, and business growth, demonstrating the programme’s real impact on the Blue Economy across the region.

As part of the programme’s commitment to building stronger businesses the Commission said that: Training sessions are currently underway in Grenada and St Vincent & the Grenadines, equipping MSMEs with skills in business development, financial literacy, marketing, and sustainability.

St Lucia has successfully completed its training series, with participants reporting increased confidence, readiness, and practical knowledge to strengthen their enterprises and prepare competitive grant applications.

The OECS Commission is strongly encouraging MSMEs to take this final opportunity to submit their proposals, strengthen their businesses, and access funding that can transform their future within the Blue Economy.

Applicants are asked to submit proposals via email to: ubecgrant@oecs.int