Opportunities

• The EU-LAC Digital Accelerator invites business partnerships to apply to its 3rd Open Call. Partnerships should include a corporate wanting to solve a digital challenge and a startup or innovative SME offering to develop a solution to solve this challenge.

• For this 3rd open call, we are excited to introduce HealthTech as a new opportunity area, alongside CleanTech and Smart Production.

• EU-LAC partnerships must include at least one corporate and one startup from two of the following regions: the European Union, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

• Selected candidates will receive in-kind acceleration services valued at up to €30,000 (€40,000 if a Caribbean partner is involved).

The EU-LAC Digital Accelerator supports cross-regional partnerships between Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean in developing digital processes, products, and services. The partnership should include a corporate facing a challenge and a startup or innovative SME from a different region, and providing a digital solution.

The accelerator launches the 3rd Open Call for EU-LAC partnerships, now expanding its focus to include Health Tech, alongside Clean Technologies and Smart Production, as the main opportunity areas. However, corporate-startup partnerships from other sectors are also welcome to apply.

Selected candidates will receive in-kind acceleration services valued at up to €30,000 (€40,000 if a Caribbean partner is involved).

The services provided within the programme are detailed in a catalogue and are divided into the following categories:

• A customised acceleration roadmap
• The design and implementation of a proof-of-concept
• The validation of a business model
• The assessment of its investment and scaling readiness.

The accelerator’s experts will thus support these partnerships until they reach an investment-ready stage.

Open call: How to apply?

To qualify for the acceleration services, partnerships must include at least:

✔️One corporate.

✔️One startup or one innovative SME.

Both entities should be established in distinct eligible regions: the European Union, Latin America, or the Caribbean.

Besides, to demonstrate their commitment, the partners must have signed a formal partnership agreement.

Partnerships can submit their application form in 5 minutes via the open call page on the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator website. They will also find the “Guidelines for Applicants” document with all the necessary information.

About EU-LAC Digital Accelerator

EU-LAC Digital Accelerator is funded by the European Union and the Global Gateway initiative under the EU-LAC Digital Alliance framework. With five years of duration, it focuses on fostering multi-stakeholder and private sector collaboration, competitiveness, digital skills and innovation by establishing a regional EU-LAC Digital Accelerator. TECNALIA leads the initiative and involves the participation of major international benchmarks in entrepreneurship and innovation from the EU-LAC regions, such as IESE Business School, WAYRA Hispam, European Business and Innovation Centre Network (EBN), European Business Angels Network (EBAN), Expertise France, OCTANTIS, Inter-American Development Bank BID-Lab, TECNALIA-Colombia and Caribbean Export Development Agency.

Disclaimer

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Neighborhood, Development & International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI-Global Europe). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Caribbean Export, with support from the European Union, extends an invitation to CARIFORUM-based nutraceutical producers to apply for a chance to exhibit at the upcoming Vitafoods Europe 2025 trade show. This premier event is scheduled to take place from 20-22 May at the Fira Barcelona Gran Via in Barcelona, Spain.

Vitafoods Europe is a premier annual event that unites the global nutraceutical community, encompassing the entire supply chain from ingredients and raw materials to finished products and services. Established in 1997, the event has grown significantly, with the 2023 edition welcoming 18,854 attendees and 1,060 exhibitors. The event attracts a diverse international audience and offers a platform to discover the latest innovations, build partnerships, and connect with industry leaders. For more information about Vitafoods Europe please visit https://www.vitafoods.eu.com/en/home.html.

Noting Europe’s vast market potential and the advantageous position provided by the CARIFORUM-EU
Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), Caribbean Export is committed to supporting representatives
from CARIFORUM enterprises within the following niches to partake in this prestigious event:

Caribbean Export will support selected firms with the following:

• Training Programs: Caribbean Export will provide in-market support and orientation to successful applicants ahead of the Trade show. This will include a virtual program during March and April 2025, to assist firms in enhancing their EU market penetration or expansion strategy, benefits of the EU-EPA, market research, logistics and B2B and distributor networks. This will culminate with a 2-day in-person exercise in Barcelona, on 15 and 16 May, ahead of the showcase.
• Booth Provision: Participants will be provided with floor space for their booths at the trade show under the Absolutely Caribbean Pavilion.
• Booth Design and Construction: Design and construction of individual booths in line with the Absolutely Caribbean brand.
• Exhibitor Fee: Cover the cost of the exhibitor fee as a shared exhibitor, valued at Euro 3450 per firm.
• In Market Orientation Transport: transport for activities related to the in-market orientation and B2B support.

Total support by Caribbean Export is valued at over EURO 15,000 per firm.

The Application Process

The application process for firms interested in participating in the Vitafoods Europe trade show and in- market support is as follows:

• Step 1 – Complete and submit the online application form below:
  • Vitafoods Europe Application Form
• Step 2 – Submit a 3–5-minute video answering the following questions:
  • Provide a brief description of your company.
  • What is your motivation for attending the Trade show and in market support activity?
  • What do you hope to achieve?

Please submit the video link to vitafoods2025@carib-export.com and copied to technicalprogrammes@carib-export.com and ensure both email addresses have full access to the content.

Applicants are required to complete both steps of the application process. Incomplete submissions will not be considered.

Applications must be submitted by 23:59 AST Monday 17 February 2025.
Download the full Expression of Interest below.

Are you ready to take your impactful project to new heights? The Caribbean Investment Forum
is seeking groundbreaking initiatives that have the power to transform communities and create
lasting national or regional impact. If you have a bold vision requiring a capital investment of over
US$1 million, this is your opportunity to gain attention.
Join the Movement in Thriving Sectors

• Sustainable Agriculture: Revolutionise how we grow and consume food! We seek
  innovative projects championing eco-friendly practices, enhancing food security, and
  empowering local farmers with cutting-edge solutions. Whether through organic farming
  techniques or advanced irrigation systems, your project could pave the way for a more
  sustainable food supply chain.
• Green Economy Transition: Be a catalyst for change! Share your initiatives that support
  the transition to a greener economy by reducing carbon footprints, harnessing renewable
  energy, and fostering sustainable business practices. From developing green technologies
  to implementing community-based recycling programs, your efforts can drive significant
  environmental benefits and economic growth.
• Digitalisation of Business: Step into the future! We seek visionary projects that
  seamlessly integrate digital technologies into business operations, enhancing efficiency,
  enriching customer experiences, and fueling economic growth. From e-commerce
  platforms to digital marketing strategies, your project can empower local businesses to
  thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Why Seize This Opportunity?

• Innovators and entrepreneurs with projects requiring over US$1 million in capital
  investment.
• Teams ready to showcase their potential for national or regional impact.
• Visionaries passionate about sustainable development, economic advancement, and
  social change.
• Organisations, and established businesses with a clear mission and a track record of
  delivering results.
  
  *NB Only projects being implemented in CARIFORUM Member States are eligible.

How to Get Involved?

1. Download and complete the online Expression of Interest form no later than March 15, 2025.
2. Please email your dynamic proposal and the following supporting documents by May
   30, 2025, at 4:30 pm AST.

Elements of the Full Proposal

• Project Proposal: A detailed description of your project, including objectives,
  strategies, target audience, and expected outcomes. Clearly outline how your project
  aligns with one or more specified sectors and its unique value.
• Budget Outline: A comprehensive budget detailing capital investment and fund
  allocation. Include details on how funds will be used, potential revenue streams or
  cost-saving measures.
• Three-Year Financial Projections: Provide detailed financial projections for the next
• three years. Include revenue forecasts, anticipated expenses, profit margins, and any
• assumptions made in your projections. This will help us understand your project’s
• financial viability and sustainability.
• Timeline: An estimated timeline for project implementation and key milestones.
  Highlight critical phases and deliverables to demonstrate your project’s roadmap to
  success.
• Team Profile: Brief bios of key team members, highlighting their expertise and roles
  in the project. Showcase your team’s unique skills and experiences that position you
  for success.
• Impact Assessment: A description of the national or regional impact that will be
  created, supported by metrics for measuring success and the potential social,
  economic, and environmental benefits of your project.
• Feasibility Study: A thorough feasibility study assessing the viability of your project.
  This should include market analysis, risk factors, potential challenges, and strategies
  for overcoming obstacles. Demonstrating the feasibility of your project is crucial for
  securing support.

Don’t miss this opportunity to lead innovation, sustainability, and societal impact. Please submit
your proposal today and join us in creating a brighter, more sustainable Caribbean future.

All communications and submissions should be sent (in English) to the CIF Projects Team, Attn: Ms. Tonya Cummins (cifprojects@carib-export.com), copied to technicalprogrammes@carib-export.com.

For more information about the Caribbean Investment Forum, please visit the event website at
www.caribbeaninvestmentforum.com

*CARIFORUM Member States include Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica,
Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent
& the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago

Background

Caribbean Export is advancing a comprehensive initiative to support the green transition, supported by the European Union’s Global Gateway – Third Regional Private Sector Development Programme and other partners. This initiative focuses on renewable energy adoption, energy efficiency improvements, and sustainable business practices to foster economic diversification and resilience. The Caribbean’s abundant natural resources, such as solar, wind, and marine energy, position the region as a potential leader in renewable energy. Between 2015 and 2022, renewable energy capacity increased by 51%, with 64% of electricity generation coming from renewables by 2022. However, with electricity demand projected to rise by 2.3% annually by 2050, the transition must accelerate.

A cornerstone of this green transition initiative is a grant funding program, funded by the European Union, designed to support businesses committed to adopting green technologies. At the same time, Caribbean Export in partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank, will be developing an online energy audit tool, to fill the gap in accessible energy efficiency (EE) and resource efficiency and cleaner production (RECP) services for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The tool when complete, will serve as additional support, providing MSMEs with critical insights into their energy practices and enabling them to align with green transition goals. The online tool, coupled with energy audit services and RECP training programs, will be supported by Business Support Organizations (BSOs) across the region.

This strategic approach is further strengthened with this request for services to conduct an in-depth analysis of green funding initiatives across key sectors, including energy, agriculture, and infrastructure. The analysis will identify barriers, propose interventions, and draw lessons from other Small Island Developing States (SIDS) with successful green transition models. These findings will inform policymakers and ensure that grant funding is directed to areas with the highest potential for success.

Objective

The main objective of this consultancy is to design a grant programme that:

• Promotes sustainable business practices across CARIFORUM’s private sector.
• Aligns with both national and international green transition goals.
• Encourages applicants to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria into their business proposals.
• Maps and engages key stakeholders in the green sector to identify grant opportunities and foster strategic partnerships that enhance the impact and reach of the program.

LOGISTICS AND TIMING

Commencement date and period of implementation of tasks
The expected start date for the consultancy is February 1, 2025, and conclude on April 15, 2025.

Required Documentation

Interested candidates should submit the following:

• A detailed CV highlighting relevant experience.
• A technical proposal outlining the approach and methodology for the consultancy.
• A financial proposal detailing the consultancy fees, in EURO.
• Contact information for at least two professional references.
• Signed Application Declaration in paragraph 14.

All applications must be submitted by email to gegp@carib-export.com and copied to Mr. Wayne Elliott, Manager – Technical Programmes at welliott@carib-export.com, no later than 4:00 pm AST on January 3rd, 2025.

Background

The Caribbean Export Development Agency has recognized the barriers the region faces to digital transition, and as part of its strategic plan, aims to increase the use of innovative tools and technologies and promote digital transformation and e-commerce within the Caribbean private sector. This includes the innovation/digitization of business as a core component of building a more resilient, transformative Caribbean private sector. To this end, the Agency has been implementing programmes targeting digital transformation of Caribbean businesses, including the Caribbean Digital Transformation Institute (CDTI), an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) funded project. The CDTI, envisioned as a regional public good, will provide an online learning management platform where Caribbean businesses can access courses to build their knowledge capacity based on a digital maturity score following an assessment of the firm’s maturity via the digital maturity check-up tool. Caribbean Export will also be able to monitor regional digital maturity via the development of a digital maturity dashboard, which will inform further interventions to promote digital transition and overall digital transformation within the Caribbean private sector.

To support this digital transformation initiative, the Agency, with support from the European Union’s Third Regional Private Sector Development Programme, is developing a grant funding program to provide financial support to Caribbean businesses to implement and adopt digital technologies into their day-to-day business operations, enhance competitiveness and generate overall efficiencies. However, for this initiative to succeed, it is crucial to understand the current landscape of digital transformation initiatives in the region. To this end, Caribbean Export will retain a consultant to conduct a strategic analysis of digital transformation across the region.

The consultant will evaluate existing digital transformation funding programs, identify challenges and successes, as well as key intervention areas of digital transformation. This analysis should also draw lessons from other Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and similar economies who have successfully implemented digital transformation funding initiatives. The findings will inform policymakers of high-impact areas where grant funding can achieve the most significant impact, ensuring resources are allocated to sectors and initiatives with the highest potential for success.

Specific Objectives

The main objective of this consultancy is to undertake comprehensive research of the digital transformation support landscape in the Caribbean and in similar regions, that will inform Caribbean Export’s development of a grant support initiative to achieve the following:

• Increase adoption of new technologies within Caribbean businesses
• Increase overall digital maturity of Caribbean businesses
• Increase Caribbean businesses competitiveness through digital transformation

Logistics and Timing

Commencement date and period of implementation of tasks.
The expected start date for the consultancy is February 1, 2025 and conclude April 15, 2025.

Required Documentation

Interested candidates should submit the following:

• A detailed CV highlighting relevant experience.
• A technical proposal outlining the approach and methodology for the consultancy.
• A financial proposal detailing the consultancy fees, in EURO.
• Contact information for at least two professional references.
• Signed Application Declaration in paragraph 14.

All applications must be submitted by email to digp@carib-export.com and copied to Mr. Wayne Elliott, Manager – Technical Programmes at welliott@carib-export.com, no later than 4:00pm AST January 3rd, 2025.

Institution: Inter-American Development Bank
Country: IDB Caribbean Countries: Belize, Bahamas, Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago
Project: The Caribbean Digital Transformation Institute
Sector: Private Firms and SME Development
Abstract: The consulting services aim to advance digital technology adoption among Caribbean MSMEs in sectors such as tourism, agro-processing, and manufacturing, by designing tailored digital adoption and innovation policies and strategies. This initiative, with an implementation period of six months, includes assessing digital maturity, identifying gaps in digital skills, and analyzing barriers to technology adoption. The consultancy will engage with Business Support Organizations, provide customized country recommendations, and develop a roadmap with specific action steps and performance indicators. Additionally, the consultancy will compile a database of regional digital service providers to support the establishment of a two-sided marketplace, further promoting digital transformation within the region.
Grant No.: ATN/OC-19079-RG
TC No.: RG-T3992
Deadline: 23rd November 2024

The Caribbean Export Development Agency has received financing from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), toward the cost of The Caribbean Digital Transformation Institute and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services.

The consulting services (“the Services”) include conducting a comprehensive assessment of digital technology adoption needs for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Caribbean, particularly in tourism, agro-processing, and manufacturing sectors. This involves analyzing digital maturity and identifying gaps in digital skills using tools like the Digital Check-up Tool, along with surveying barriers that hinder technology adoption. Additionally, the services encompass engaging with Business Support Organizations (BSOs) and local representatives to align with country-specific contexts, designing tailored policies and strategies to support digital integration, and developing an implementation roadmap with clear timelines, responsibilities, and performance indicators. The final deliverables include a detailed report with best practice recommendations and a dissemination plan, alongside a classified list of digital service providers in the region to support a digital marketplace framework. The implementation period for these services is six months.

The Caribbean Export Development Agency now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. Please view the terms of reference below.

The shortlist shall comprise five to eight firms with a wide geographical spread.

Consultants will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the Inter-American Development Bank: Policies for the Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank GN-2350-15 and is open to all eligible bidders as defined in the policies.

Consultants may associate with other firms in the form of a joint venture or a sub-consultancy to enhance their qualifications. For the purpose of establishing the short list, the nationality of a firm is that of the country in which it is legally incorporated or constituted and in the case of a Joint Venture, the nationality of the firm appointed to represent it.

A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Selection Based on the Consultants’ Qualifications (CQS) method set out in the Consultant Policies.

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) by 23rd November 2024.

Jonathan Seecharan
Attn: Innovation and Digital Business Officer
1st Floor Baobab Tower Highway 2 Warrens St. Michael
BB22026
Bridgetown
Barbados
Tel: +1(246) 436-0578
Fax: +1(246) 436-9999
E-mail: jseecharan@carib-export.com

• EU-LAC Digital Accelerator’s Digital Connectors offers expert support to Dominican companies in their digital transformation through open innovation.
• Participating companies will gain access to business opportunities with innovation ecosystems in Europe and Latin America.
• The program’s activities will guide Dominican companies to apply for in-kind services from EU-LAC Digital Accelerator valued at €40,000.

EU-LAC Digital Accelerator introduces its new innovation program, DIGITAL CONNECTORS, in the Dominican Republic. This program is designed to drive open innovation in Dominican companies, providing expert support in identifying digitalization challenges and generating business opportunities by connecting them with innovation ecosystems in Europe and Latin America.

Innovation Week, driven by Digital Connectors, will take place from Monday, October 28 to Friday, November 1, aiming to facilitate connections between the corporate needs of Dominican companies and the innovative talent of startups from Latin America and Europe. This internationalization of the Dominican business ecosystem will create a positive impact both in the country and the region, transforming the innovation landscape and generating key development opportunities.

Highlighted activities of the Digital Connectors program include workshops and specialized support designed for companies to outline their digital challenges and explore innovative solutions to optimize their processes, improve their competitiveness, and advance their digital transformation. The identified challenges will focus on specific company problems and will be addressed using the latest trends and emerging technologies.

• Monday, October 28: Business Opportunities in Europe and Latin America – In-person workshop for the ICT sector and startups from the Dominican Republic.
• Tuesday, October 29: Boost Open Innovation and Solve Digital Challenges – In-person workshop for corporations in the Dominican Republic.
• Wednesday, October 30, Thursday, October 31, and Friday, November 1: Meetings with innovation agents and interviews with startups and corporations to outline their roadmap.

Through the Digital Connectors program, participating Dominican companies will receive the necessary support to apply for in-kind acceleration services valued at up to €40,000, tailored to their needs. These services, provided by experts from EU-LAC Digital Accelerator, include a personalized acceleration roadmap, the design and implementation of a proof of concept, validation of their business model, and assessment of their readiness for growth and subsequent investment.

About EU-LAC Digital Accelerator

EU-LAC Digital Accelerator is a project funded by the European Union and the Global Gateway initiative under the EU-LAC Digital Alliance. With a five-year duration, it focuses on fostering collaboration among multiple stakeholders and the private sector, competitiveness, digital skills, and innovation through the establishment of the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator. TECNALIA leads the initiative, involving key international figures in entrepreneurship and innovation from Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean, such as IESE Business School, WAYRA Hispam, European Business and Innovation Centre Network (EBN), European Business Angels Network (EBAN), Expertise France, OCTANTIS, Inter-American Development Bank BID-Lab, TECNALIA-Colombia, and Caribbean Export Development Agency.

Disclaimer

Funded by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Neighborhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI-Global Europe). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) is seeking consultancy services to update and digitize the ProNET training program. This initiative aims to enhance the capacity and competitiveness of private sector SMEs in the CARIFORUM region by aligning the training modules with current global trends and emerging business needs.

Objective: The consultancy aims to:

• Review and enhance the existing ProNET course modules.
• Strengthen private sector competitiveness by updating course content.
• Develop new training modules addressing innovation, business model development, e-commerce, and other emerging areas.
• Digitize the ProNET training program for the Caribbean Export’s eLearning platform, powered by Velsoft.

Requirements

This consultancy requires the following qualifications and experience:

• A post-graduate degree in International Trade, International Business, Business Administration, Entrepreneurship, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience developing training curricula, including workshops, presentations, and training exercises.
• Demonstrated strengths and experience in developing the capacity of SMEs, preferably in the context of island nations.
• Prior work experience in the Caribbean region, especially with SMEs is required.
• Demonstrated experience in digitizing content, developing online learning modules, and utilizing digital platforms to enhance training delivery and engagement, including experience with virtual workshops, e-learning tools, and digital resource creation.
• Fluent in English, however ability to speak Spanish, French and/or Dutch would be an asset.

Submission

To apply, please download the full Terms of Reference (TOR) and submit the required documentation, including;

• Technical proposal/concept design for the delivery of services.
• Financial proposal in Euro to meet the scope of works.
• Applicant Declaration Form.

Documentation should be submitted to pronet@carib-export.com  with a copy to Mrs. Natasha Edwin-Walcott at nwalcott@carib-export.com  no later than 4:30 pm AST on October 11, 2024.

With support from the Global Gateway Regional Private Sector Development Programme III (RPSDP), the Caribbean Export Development Agency is initiating efforts to enhance the market entry of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in CARIFORUM countries into the European Union (EU). The CARIFORUM-EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), signed in 2008, aims to boost trade and investment between CARIFORUM states and the EU, but CARIFORUM’s exports to the EU have been marginal. This initiative aims to address the technical and regulatory challenges faced by SMEs in the Caribbean.

The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) leads private sector development programmes across the Caribbean through innovative, targeted initiatives designed to increase Caribbean business growth, sustainability, and job creation.

The Capacity Building Programme on Standards and Certification for SMEs aims to enhance the global competitiveness of Caribbean SMEs by equipping them with the necessary certifications and technical knowledge required to access and succeed in the EU market.

Objective

The overall objective of this initiative is to enhance the global competitiveness of Caribbean SMEs by equipping them with the necessary certifications and technical knowledge required to access and succeed in the EU market. This objective is pursued through a collaborative effort between Caribbean Export, CROSQ, and National Standards Bureaus. The programme focuses on several key areas:

• Phase 1: Capacity Building Workshops: Design and deliver workshops to raise awareness among SMEs about the importance of international standards and certifications.
• Phase 2: Technical Assistance Program: Provide targeted technical assistance to SMEs, helping them achieve the necessary certifications and comply with EU market requirements. Create action plans addressing their specific challenges in obtaining certification.

Requirements

This consultancy requires the services of a key expert with the following qualifications and experience:

• A postgraduate degree in at least one of the following relevant fields of study: trade policy, engineering or natural sciences.
• At least five (7) years’ experience in the field of Quality infrastructure.
• Knowledge of relevant international standards including; ISO standards as well as voluntary sustainability standards.
• Demonstrated knowledge of EU market access requirements, including technical barriers to trade, labelling and packaging regulations/requirements for market access.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the CARIFORUM‐ EU Economic Partnership Agreement.
• Demonstrated experience working in the Caribbean and with CARIFORUM SMEs
• A minimum of five (5) years’ experience in delivering professional training to SMEs.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Excellent command of written and spoken English.
• Excellent technical and report‐writing skills.

Submission

To apply, please download the full Terms of Reference (TOR) and submit the required documentation, including:

• Technical Proposal/Concept Design
• Financial Proposal in EURO
• Applicant Declaration Form

Submit these documents to Ms. Mikaela Stoute, Export Development and Promotion Officer, at mstoute@carib-export.com , copied to Mrs. Natasha Edwin-Walcott, Manager (Ag), Competitiveness and Export Promotion, at nwalcott@carib-export.com.

The submission deadline is 4:00 pm AST on September 30, 2024.

Background

With support from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the Caribbean Export Development Agency is initiating efforts to support the digital transformation of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Caribbean. The IDB, established in 1959, is the principal source of financing for economic, social, and institutional development in Latin America and the Caribbean, offering a comprehensive suite of services, including loans, grants, guarantees, policy advice, and technical assistance.

The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) leads private sector development programmes across the Caribbean through the provision of innovative, targeted initiatives designed to increase Caribbean business growth, sustainability and job creation.

The initiative aims to enhance the resilience and competitiveness of Caribbean MSMEs, in the post-COVID digital economy. By leveraging its expertise and extensive network, Caribbean Export is committed to ensuring that the objectives are achieved, thereby fostering sustainable digital transformation across the Caribbean.

Objective

The overall objective of this initiative is to enhance the resilience and competitiveness of Caribbean MSMEs in the post-COVID digital economy by facilitating comprehensive digital transformation. This objective is pursued through a collaborative effort between Caribbean Export and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The initiative focuses on several key areas:

1. Policy Development for Digital Adoption: Crafting and implementing policies that facilitate digital adoption at the firm level, creating a supportive environment for transformation.
2. Supply-Side Enhancement: Expanding digital capacity-building offerings tailored to the Caribbean context, ensuring businesses have access to high-quality training and specialized IT consultants or resources required to support their digital transformation.
3. Skill Creation and Training: Addressing both advanced and basic digital skills to meet the private sector’s needs, thereby enhancing the workforce’s capability to utilize digital technologies effectively.
4. Digital-First Strategy: Encouraging a digital-first business approach, integrating digital technologies into core operations to enhance productivity and competitiveness.

Requirements

A team comprising of at least two qualified experts, with the following qualifications and
experience:

• A Postgraduate Degree in Social Sciences, Innovation and Entrepreneurship or a related field.
• A minimum of five (5) years’ experience in supporting private sector firms in the areas of digital business, e-commerce adoption, technology adoption, innovation or digitization.
• Strong project management skills – A certification in project management will be an asset.
• Knowledge of the various relevant regional trade agreements.
• Experience working with enterprises and with national trade promotion organizations and/or other business support organizations.
• Experience and a track record in resource mobilization.
• Proven relationship management skills.
• Fluent in English.
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office programmes especially Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Project and Microsoft PowerPoint.

Submission

To apply, please download the full Terms of Reference (TOR) and submit the required documentation, including the:

• Technical Proposal
• Financial Proposal
• Applicant Declaration Form

Submit these documents to Christopher Richards, Consultant, at crichards@carib-export.com, copied to Natasha Edwin Walcott, Manager (Ag), Competitiveness and Export Promotion, at nwalcott@carib-export.com .

The submission deadline is 4:30 pm AST on September 20, 2024.

• EU-LAC Digital Connectors Digital Accelerator will offer expert support to Dominican companies in their digitization through open innovation.
• Participating companies will be able to access business opportunities with innovation ecosystems in Europe and Latin America.
• Program activities will guide Dominican companies to apply for EU-LAC Digital Accelerator in-kind services valued at €40,000.

EU-LAC Digital Accelerator presents its new innovation program, Digital Connectors, in the Dominican Republic. This program is designed to promote Open Innovation in Dominican companies, offering expert support both in the identification of digitalization challenges and in the generation of business opportunities, connecting them with innovation ecosystems in Europe and Latin America.

Through the Digital Connectors program, participating Dominican companies will receive the necessary support to apply for in-kind acceleration services valued at up to €40,000, tailored to their needs. These services, provided by EU-LAC Digital Accelerator experts, include a customized acceleration roadmap, design and implementation of a proof of concept, validation of your business model and assessment of your readiness for growth and subsequent investment.

Among the highlights of the Digital Connectors program are workshops and specialized support, designed to enable companies to outline their digital challenges and explore innovative solutions that optimize their processes, improve their competitiveness and enable them to advance in their digital transformation. The challenges identified will focus on specific business problems and will be addressed by leveraging the latest trends and emerging technologies.

The Digital Connectors program will take place during the week of Monday, October 14 through Friday, October 18, with the objective of facilitating connections between the corporate needs of Dominican companies and the innovative talent of Latin American and European startups. This internationalization of the Dominican entrepreneurial ecosystem will generate a positive impact on both the country and the region, transforming the innovation landscape and generating key development opportunities.

Companies interested in participating can register until Wednesday, September 18 through the form available on the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator website dedicated to the program : https://eulacdigitalaccelerator.com/digital-connectors/

About EU-LAC Digital Accelerator

EU-LAC Digital Accelerator is a project funded by the European Union and the Global Gateway initiative in the framework of the EU-LAC Digital Alliance. With a five-year duration, it focuses on fostering multi-stakeholder and private sector collaboration, competitiveness, digital skills and innovation through the establishment of the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator. TECNALIA leads the initiative and counts with the participation of important international references in entrepreneurship and innovation in Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, such as IESE Business School, WAYRA Hispam, European Business and Innovation Centre Network (EBN), European Business Angels Network (EBAN), Expertise France, OCTANTIS, Inter-American Development Bank IDB-Lab, TECNALIA-Colombia and Caribbean Export Development Agency.

Disclaimer

Financed by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Neighborhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI-Europe Global). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

The Government of Belize has received eight million US Dollars (US $8M) in loan financing from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for the implementation of the Project – Trade and Investment Facilitation Program in Belize (TIFP). The Trade and Investment Facilitation Program is a response to the low investment flows and limited international trade competitiveness faced by Belize. The general objective of the program is to promote Belize´s foreign direct investment and trade performance.

Qualified Consultants should submit one (1) signed pdf application in English, using the required template via e-mail to tjoseph.ceu@med.gov.bz indicating in the subject – “Consultancy Service for the Design of the SPD– BL-L1040”.

The Deadline for submission is no later than August 16, 2024, by 10:00 a.m. Local Belize Time. No late submissions will be accepted.