CDB provides grant funding for regional Cultural and Creative Industry events

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), through its Cultural and Creative Industries Innovation Fund (CIIF), has announced a grant opportunity valued at US$190,000 to support the hosting of regional events and conferences that advance the growth and competitiveness of the Caribbean’s Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs). In a release, the CDB said applications for funding close on January, 31, 2026.

This call seeks proposals for events and conferences scheduled between March 1, 2026 and February 28, 2027 that address key development priorities for CCIs. The Bank said eligible activities should focus on facilitating policy dialogue to strengthen the enabling environment for CCIs; building capacity for Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) to improve competitiveness; enhancing sector data and market intelligence; promoting marketplace and trade activities; or preserving cultural heritage.

In announcing the initiative, Fund Coordinator Malene Joseph, stated that “CDB, through this grant call, aims to support home-grown activities that help unlock pathways for our creative Caribbean talent and businesses to become even more empowered. Beyond facilitating necessary policy dialogue and building data-driven insights CIIF is further enabling creative MSMEs by offering financial support to these targeted events”.

Six grants will be awarded with a total grant allocation of US$190,000 across three streams. Two grants of US$25,000 will fund initiatives targeting improving the enabling environment for industries in culture. Two grants of US$20,000 will support data intelligence themed activities; and the final two grants of US$50,000 will finance MSME market preparation and market access activities. Applicants must be formally registered entities. The Bank said this includes Business Support Organisations (BSOs), Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), universities, Community-Based Organisations (CBOs), or government agencies serving the Creative Industries sector. Entities must have at least three years’ experience hosting industry events and provide co-financing of at least 10% of the total project budget. Interested entities can submit applications via https://cdb.submittable.com/submit. CIIF will also host a virtual consultation on January, 14 2026 to guide potential applicants.