The Virgin Islands government is deepening its investment in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with US$165,000 in grants to 18 local business owners, a move officials say will strengthen entrepreneurship, create jobs and drive economic growth across the Territory. Photo: GIS

Minister of Financial Services and Economic Development, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE, said the awards reflect the Government’s commitment to backing businesses across the Territory. Photo: GIS

Deputy Director of Trade, Dr Lincoln E. Bobb, described the grants as a practical show of support for the 18 recipients. Photo: GIS

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation, Mrs Natalie Fahie-Smith, urged recipients to manage the funds responsibly. Photo: GIS

The Department of Trade, Investment Promotion and Consumer Affairs presented the grants at a ceremony on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.

According to a government press release, the funding will support start-up costs and business development across a range of sectors, including food services, tours, auto mechanics, plumbing, electrical services, catering, logistics, laundry, spa services, and care for seniors.

This round included recipients from Tortola and Virgin Gorda and marked the first time an MSME grant was awarded to a business on Jost van Dyke. The programme has previously supported enterprises on Anegada.

'Awards reflect Government’s commitment to backing businesses'

Minister of Financial Services and Economic Development, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE (AL), said the awards reflect the Government’s commitment to backing businesses across the Territory.

“I want to give you my commitment, to reiterate my commitment to ensuring that whatever support you can receive from the government, whatever we can do to facilitate that support, we will do so,” Honourable Smith said. “Make whatever service it is that you are giving as attractive as you can. And this is why we are giving you the kind of support that we are giving you. Not just to give any kind of service, but a good quality service, a service that the British Virgin Islands can be proud of.” 

Deputy Director of Trade, Dr Lincoln E. Bobb, described the grants as a practical show of support for the 18 recipients.

“This grant funding is a direct vote of confidence in your vision, your hard work and your future. You are the backbone of our economy, and today, we are putting real capital behind your momentum,” Dr Bobb said. “We cannot wait to see how you transform your businesses and strengthen the Virgin Islands.”

'Recipients urged to manage funds responsibly'

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation, Mrs Natalie J. Fahie-Smith, urged recipients to manage the funds responsibly.

“MSME grants are more than financial assistance. They represent an investment in people, businesses, jobs, innovation and the economic future of our community,” Mrs Fahie-Smith said. “The objective is not simply to spend the money, but to use it as a catalyst for growth.”

Business Development Manager and Master of Ceremonies, Mr Leroy James, said the programme forms part of the Department’s wider commitment to business development.

Recipients were also encouraged to enrol in the MSME Capacity Building Programme, which offers training in digital marketing, financial management and business continuity with support from the Caribbean Development Bank.

The Department of Trade, Investment Promotion and Consumer Affairs said it will continue to work with grant recipients, monitor the use of funds and provide ongoing business development support.