GENERAL PROCUREMENT NOTICE

Country: The Bahamas, Barbados, Suriname, Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Trinidad & Tobago
Project Name: Caribbean Green Energy Adoption and Energy Efficiency Toolkit for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME); and Promotion of Just Energy Transition
Sector: Green Energy
GENERAL PROCUREMENT NOTICE
Loan No. /Fiduciary Fund/TC No. /Grant No. RG-T4402
Project No – ATN/OC-20552-RG

The Caribbean Export Development Agency has received financing in the amount equivalent to US$817,212.00 from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and it intends to apply part of the proceeds to payments for goods, works, related services and consulting services to be procured under the project Caribbean Green Energy Adoption and Energy Efficiency Toolkit for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME); and Promotion of Just Energy Transition. The project will be jointly financed by the Caribbean Export Development Agency, contributing US$151,333.33; ExporTT from Trinidad and Tobago, contributing US$10,000; Export Barbados from Barbados, contributing US$10,000; the Center for Exports and Investment of the Dominican Republic (ProDominicana), contributing US$10,878.67; and the Center for Facilitation of Investments (CFI-Haiti) from Haiti, contributing US$10,000. Bidding will be governed by the Inter-American Development Bank’s eligibility rules and procedures.


The main objectives of this project are to support Caribbean MSMEs in adopting sustainable energy practices and to facilitate a just energy transition in the region. Specifically, the project aims to develop and implement an online energy audit tool that will enable businesses to enhance energy efficiency, adopt cleaner production methods, and adhere to voluntary sustainability standards (VSS), all of which are geared toward improving competitiveness and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.


To achieve these goals, the project will procure various goods, works, and services, including the development of an interactive energy audit platform for MSMEs, training materials on energy management and sustainability, and consultancy services for tool design, survey execution, and course content creation. Additionally, the project will involve a marketing campaign to encourage MSME participation, the establishment of a Project Management Unit (PMU) to coordinate activities, and resources for conducting external audits and evaluations to monitor project outcomes.


Procurement processes of contracts financed by the Inter-American Development Bank will be conducted in accordance with the Policies for Procurement of Goods and Works financed by the Inter-American Development Bank GN-2349-15 and is open to all eligible bidders as defined in the policies. Consulting services will be selected and contracted in accordance with the Policies for the Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank GN-2350-15.


Specific procurement notices for contracts to be bid under the Inter-American Development Bank’s international competitive bidding (ICB) procedures, will be published as they become available. For consulting services expected to cost an amount equivalent to US $200.000 or more, a request for expressions of interest contracts will be advertised in UN Development Business1 and Inter-American Development Bank’s Web Site.


Interested eligible bidders and consultants who wish to be included on the mailing list to receive invitations to prequalify/bid under ICB procedures, and interested consultants who wish to receive a copy of advertisement requesting expressions of interest for consultancy contracts, or those requiring additional information, should contact the address below:

CALL FOR FOUNDERS: Pitch to Win at CIF 2025

DEADLINE EXTENDED: JUNE 27th 2025, 11:59pm AST

Do you have a bold business with big impact?

Here’s your chance to take the stage, pitch your company, receive feedback from investors, and compete for prizes at one of the Caribbean’s most prestigious investment events!

The Caribbean Export Development Agency is inviting 20 dynamic MSMEs from across CARIFORUM to apply for the CIF 2025 Pitch Competition — a high-energy, high-stakes live pitch event spotlighting the region’s most promising businesses.

Pitch Live at the Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) 2025

Where: Montego Bay, Jamaica
When July 31, 2025

Why Apply?

Finalists will:
✅ Pitch live to a panel of regional and international investors
✅ Gain high-profile exposure at CIF 2025
✅ Receive expert feedback to strengthen their business
✅ Compete for prizes to fuel their next phase of growth
✅ Build valuable investor and peer networks

Who Should Apply?

We’re looking for growth-ready MSMEs who are:

  • Registered in a CARIFORUM member state
  • Operating for at least one year but not more than ten
  • Generating revenue or have a strong, viable business model with a minimal viable product in the market
  • Activity pursuing investment capital less than US$1M
  • Operate within one of the following focus areas:
    • Digital Business (e.g. SaaS, AI, platforms)
    • AgriTech (e.g. smart farming, food tech)
    • Green Transition (e.g. renewables, eco-innovation)
    • Trade & Logistics (e.g. supply chain innovation, export tech)
  • Ready to deliver a compelling pitch on a big stage
  • Founders prepared to underwrite their costs (flight, transport and accommodation) to participate in Montego Bay. Caribbean Export will provide a complimentary access pass to participate in CIF 2025.

What’s in It for You?

This is not a training programme—it’s your moment to showcase your business, tell your story, and win real support. Whether you’re seeking visibility, validation, or cash to scale, the CIF 2025 Pitch Competition is your platform.

  • DAY 1 (July 29th 2025) – Review and fine tuning of company pitch deck, investor feedback
  • DAY 2 (July 30th 2025) – Pitch Competition Shortlisting, Pitch Practice
  • DAY 3 (July 31st 2025) – Pitch Day

Apply Now

Download the project brief below, complete and submit it for consideration along with a project pitch deck. Email your submissions to: Jonathan Seecharan- jseecharan@carib-export.com, copied to technicalprogrammes@carib-export.com.

The deadline to apply is 11:59 PM AST on : June 27, 2025.

NB: ALL submissions must contain a link to a video (not longer than 3-minutes explaining the Founder’s motivation for seeking investment funding)

Internship Opportunity-Innovation & Digital Business

The Caribbean Export Development Agency invites applications for a 3-month internship designed to provide hands-on experience supporting donor-funded projects that are transforming the Caribbean private sector through digital innovation.

Scope of Internship

The selected intern will support several high-impact initiatives, including:

  • Developing and brainstorming digital transformation project ideas
  • Conducting research to support project proposals
  • Organizing and maintaining digital documentation
  • Engaging with donors, government agencies, and private sector partners
  • Assisting in event planning and logistics for webinars, workshops, and CIF 2025
  • Supporting data collection, analysis, and project monitoring
  • Playing a key role in executing the Investment Sprint at the Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) 2025, the region’s leading investment event

The intern will work closely with the Innovation & Digital Business Officer and participate in regular team meetings with direct mentorship to ensure growth and learning.

Who Should Apply?

Students enrolled in degree programs such as Business Management, Economics, Digital Transformation, Innovation, Information Technology, International Trade/Business, or Project Management are encouraged to apply.

Submission Details

Submit your CV, motivation letter, and academic qualifications to:
Jonathan Seecharan – jseecharan@carib-export.com
CC: Veronica Henry – vhenry@carib-export.com

The deadline to apply is Friday, 20 June 2025 at 11:59 PM AST

Consultancy: Programme Officer- Gender and Entrepreneurship

SUMMARY OF CONSULTANCY SERVICES REQUIRED

The Programme Officer will provide consultancy services to the Agency, including in the implementation of a Global Affairs Canada (GAC) Project entitled ‘Caribbean Women Entrepreneurs Generating Resilient and Inclusive Trade (GRIT). The role will operate within the Technical Programme Unit of the Agency, and will coordinate and implement all programme activities, including planning and coordinating programme-related interventions, administrative, as well as special events as applicable.

KEY SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED/DELIVERABLES

Under the overall supervision of the Manager Technical Programmes, the Consultant must undertake, but not be limited to the following activities:

  • Coordinate all programme related activities under the GRIT project.
  • Develop detailed annual work and budget plans based on approved overall work plan.
  • Coordinate and support the development and timely submission of work plans and budgets.
  • Ensure timely and daily management of the project and implementation of all activities in accordance with the rules and regulation of GAC.
  • Undertake gender analysis to effectively mainstream gender into the design and formulation of the project.
  • Provide recommendations to mainstream gender considerations across the work of Caribbean Export and other activities/projects that the Agency is implementing.
  • Lead in drafting TORs and recruiting consultants/contractors to conduct work on specific activities and objectives as required by the work programme.
  • Guide consultants/contractors to ensure that their work is conducted in a timely manner and meets the required deliverables and quality standards.
  • Review all deliverables and reports of contracted consultants/partners before submitting to the donor to ensure their quality.
  • Lead engagement and communication with beneficiaries to ensure they have the necessary information to participate in and benefit from specific activities and to ensure performance milestones are achieved as required.
  • Draft the development of timely project/programme reports to donor agency.
  • Prepare timely submissions to report on overall project progress and results to Caribbean Export.
  • Assist with the execution, monitoring and evaluation activities to be carried out by Caribbean Export.
  • Monitor project funds and assist the Finance team in preparing the necessary documentation to donor Agency.
  • Lead and undertake necessary stakeholder engagement in the implementation of the project.
  • Coordinate training workshops, tradeshows and missions, B2B events where applicable.
  • Conduct research and synthesize information relevant to the Agency’s overall work programme.
  • Support the coordination efforts to implement a communications plan (designed in consultation with the Lead Partnerships, Advocacy and Reporting) to keep stakeholders informed and engaged throughout the project.
  • Any other activities that may be assigned by the Manager – Technical Programmes or designate.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

  • Demonstrated experience in entrepreneurship, business development, export and investment promotion, and trade development, with a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by women-led businesses in these areas.
  • Formal training in gender analysis and gender planning and demonstrated expertise in mainstreaming gender in projects and programmes, especially in trade and private sector development.
  • Sound knowledge and understanding of private sector needs and constraints of the CARIFORUM region, including an understanding of the gender context in CARIFORUM countries.
  • Demonstrated experience working with government institutions and international or non-governmental organizations supporting development work in trade and private sector development, or similar area, with a gender lens.
  • Familiarity with gender analysis tools and methodologies in trade and private sector development.
  • Knowledge of the economic and social development issues in the Caribbean.
  • Demonstrated experience in project cycle management, project administration and procurement.
  • Fluency in written and spoken English is required. Knowledge of French will be an asset.

EDUCATION

  • Postgraduate Degree in any of the following areas: Social or Natural Science, or relevant discipline plus 5 years working in a development organisation or donor funded environment.
  • Specialisation in Gender and Gender Analysis or mainstreaming or 5 years of demonstrated experience undertaking similar assessments is required.
  • Specialisation or demonstrated experience in Project Management would be an asset.

CONSULTANCY PERIOD

This Consultancy period will be one year (1) year from 1 May 2025, eligible for renewal based on performance and/or Agency needs.

Applicants must be legally authorized to live and work in Barbados. The Agency will not provide visa sponsorship or cover relocation expenses. The selected candidate will be required to work on-site at the Head Office in Barbados.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

Interested parties are to submit their CV, Cover Letter, and supporting Qualifying Certificates to the Human Resources Department at hr@carib-export.com by Sunday 13th April 2025 11:59 pm.

Download the full terms of reference.

EOI: Invitation to Participate in the EU Standards and Certification Programme

Caribbean Export Development Agency with support from the European Union Regional Private Sector Development Programme III invites you to participate in an exclusive programme designed to help Caribbean food and beverage companies meet European Union market standards and certification requirements.

Programme Duration

This program, running from April to September 2025, will provide your business with the essential knowledge and tools to navigate these requirements effectively.

Programme Benefits

Two Webinars – Gain insights into prevailing EU standards, compliance requirements and the most relevant information sources.

  • Webinar 1: EU Market Entry: Understanding the EU food safety, quality, packaging and labelling standards and  certifications
    • Date: Apr 15, 2025 11:00 AM La Paz
  • Webinar 2: EU Market Entry: Understanding the sustainability standards and certifications
    • Date: Apr 29, 2025 11:00 AM La Paz 

Two Days of On-Site Training – Learn hands-on how to navigate the compliance requirements, and develop practical strategies through action learning and sharing of best practices.

Exclusive Audit & On-Site Advice – A selection of companies will receive tailored support to assess their compliance status and prepare for certification.

Who Should Apply?
This programme is tailored for processed food and beverage producers in the Caribbean seeking to strengthen their competitiveness in the European market.

How to Apply?

Interested parties are required to complete the online EOI using the link below by April 30th 2025.

Registration Link: EOI – EU Standards and Certification Programme

Consultancy: Communications for the Caribbean Investment Forum in Jamaica

Relevant Background

The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) in collaboration with the Government of Jamaica, the European Union, and the CARICOM Secretariat will be hosting the Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) in Montego Bay, Jamaica in July 2025.

The hosting of the Forum will serve to:

  • Generate investment into priority sectors in the Caribbean
  • Build partnerships with key business entities, that can be sustained over time
  • Promote the Caribbean as a place for investment
  • Showcase opportunities/areas for investment
  • Showcase successful investment in the Caribbean
  • Engage potential investors and financing institutions regarding their interest and requirements for investing in the opportunities
  • Pitch specific ventures to specific investors
  • Increase the Caribbean’s insertion into the global business community through the creation of links with journals, newsletters, key influencers and networks
  • Work towards attaining the sustainable development goals focused on no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, decent work and economic growth, life on land and partnerships

The focus for this event will be placed on presenting bankable investment opportunities in priority sectors which will include sustainable agriculture, green economy transition and the digitalization of business.

To support the effective implementation of this event an experienced marketing and communications agency is required to support the production of the Caribbean Investment Forum – Jamaica.

Objective

The overall objective of the Consultancy is to promote the Caribbean Investment Forum by raising the profile of the event in the international market through effective marketing and public relations.

SCOPE OF WORK

Lead the development and implementation of an integrated communications plan that includes but is not limited to the following:

  • Develop the creative look for CIF2025 using existing styling.
  • Design and develop promotional materials e.g. social media content (e-flyers, web banners, digital graphics), sponsorship deck, info sheets, project documents etc., sourcing imagery as needed
  • Develop a monthly content calendar that include dissemination of 3 pieces of content per week including, social media copy, starting April 21,2025.
  • Develop and implement an email marketing plan.
  • Communications activities such as writing media releases and articles for circulation and placement with international and local news outlets, investment industry media outlets or niche groups that may have an interest in the Caribbean Investment Forum.
  • Prepare media invites to both local and regional media and work towards confirming their coverage/attendance at the event.
  • Secure guest appearances with relevant media outlets leading up to the event.
  • Develop artwork for event signage and materials e.g., physical and digital banners as necessary for the venue and in market advertising; event agenda and the event app.
  • Produce the official 2025 CIF promotional video.

Required Documentation

The Applicant must submit a technical and detailed financial proposal together with the completed Applicant Declaration Form to Deidre Brathwaite dbrathwaite[at]carib-export.com and copied to Shari Pollard spollard[at]carib-export.com no later than 5:00 pm AST on April 4, 2025.

Download the Terms of Reference below.

Consultancy: Finance Officer – EU-LAC Programmes

Summary

The Finance Officer – EU-LAC Programmes is responsible for providing financial, administrative, and operational support for the effective delivery of the EU-LAC Social Accelerator and the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator. This position plays a critical role in ensuring that the financial management, accounting processes, and administrative procedures for both programmes are executed in compliance with Caribbean Export’s internal policies and the requirements of the relevant programme donors.

The Finance Officer will support the day-to-day financial operations of both programmes, including budget monitoring, financial reporting, procurement support, and expenditure tracking, ensuring alignment with approved work plans and donor guidelines. The role will also assist with the preparation of financial reports, support audit processes, and maintain accurate financial records.

Working closely with the technical team, operations staff, and external stakeholders, the Finance Officer will contribute to the smooth financial and administrative management of Caribbean Export’s programmes, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and accountability in all financial transactions.

Responsibilities/Deliverables:

Financial Management and Reporting

  • Provide financial administration for the EU-LAC Social Accelerator, EU-LAC Digital Accelerator, and other programmes implemented by Caribbean Export, ensuring compliance with donor regulations and the Agency’s internal financial procedures.
  • Monitor programme budgets, track expenditure, and provide regular financial updates to programme managers and relevant stakeholders.
  • Assist in the preparation of accurate and timely financial reports for internal use, consortium partners, and donors.
  • Maintain comprehensive financial records for both programmes, ensuring documentation is complete, up to date, and ready for audit.
  • Support the preparation of periodic expenditure reports to track progress in the implementation rate and available budget lines.
  • Draft budget forecasts and financial projections to facilitate effective programme implementation.
  • Process payments, including disbursements to beneficiaries, suppliers, and service providers, ensuring all transactions are properly documented and recorded.
  • Support account reconciliation processes and manage accounts payable and receivable linked to programme activities.

Procurement and Administrative Support

  • Assist in the procurement of goods and services for programme activities, ensuring full compliance with procurement guidelines.
  • Monitor contracts with suppliers, consultants, and service providers to ensure proper financial administration and timely payments.
  • Provide administrative support for travel arrangements, meeting logistics, and event coordination related to programme delivery and tasks in the Agency’s Subregional Office.
  • Ensure proper archiving and management of financial and contractual documentation in line with Caribbean Export’s policies and donor processes.

Audit and Compliance

  • Prepare supporting documentation for internal and external audits of both programmes.
  • Assist in responding to audit queries and the implementation of any audit recommendations.
  • Ensure that financial procedures and controls comply with donor requirements, internal policies, and recognised best practices.

Collaboration and Communication

  • Coordinate with the technical teams of both programmes to align financial management with programme activities and timelines.
  • Provide financial guidance to programme staff, partners, and grantees to ensure understanding of financial procedures and donor compliance requirements.
  • Contribute to the preparation of reports and presentations concerning the financial performance of the programmes.

Other Duties

  • Provide support to other finance and operational functions of the Agency as required.
  • Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the Manager – Operations and the Deputy Executive Director.

Education/Experience:

Education:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
  • A professional accounting qualification (such as ACCA, CPA, CMA) is highly desirable or active progress towards certification.

Experience:

  • Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in financial management, accounting, or a related field, preferably within donor-funded projects.
  • Demonstrated experience supporting donor-funded projects with multi-stakeholder involvement, and management of EU funded projects.
  • Experience working with financial and ERP software for reporting and office management.
  • Experience working in office management operations as well as financial support.
  • Working knowledge of results-based management (RBM) principles and their application to financial monitoring and reporting.

This position is open to all suitably qualified CARIFORUM nationals. Applicants must be legally authorized to live and work in the Dominican Republic. The Agency will not provide visa sponsorship or cover relocation expenses.

The selected candidate will be required to work in the Sub-Regional Office from Monday to Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Submission

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

  • Updated CV
  • Cover Letter outlining suitability for the Role

Interested applicants should submit documents to hr@carib-export.com by Friday, April 04, 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Consultancy: Technical Officer – EU-LAC Social and Digital Innovation

Summary

The Technical Officer – EU-LAC Social and Digital Innovation is responsible for supporting the implementation of social and digital innovation programmes that promote cross-regional partnerships between the European Union, Latin America, and the Caribbean (EU-LAC), as well as other relevant initiatives under Caribbean Export’s portfolio. The role focuses on advancing social innovation, digital transformation, and inclusive economic development in the Caribbean. The Officer plays a critical operational role in ensuring the timely and effective delivery of EU-LAC programmes in which Caribbean Export is an implementing partner, with responsibilities covering the coordination of national-level interventions, management of regional activities, and support to project stakeholders.

Under the EU-LAC Social Accelerator, the Officer is responsible for driving the implementation of Caribbean Export’s work plan, including establishing Social Innovation Labs, coordinating capacity-building activities, and facilitating access to finance for social enterprises. Simultaneously, the Officer supports the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator by fostering partnerships between corporates and startups, building and maintaining a pipeline of participants, designing and delivering innovation challenges, and strengthening engagement with the Caribbean startup ecosystem to encourage collaborative, technology-driven solutions.

Working closely with internal teams and external partners, the Officer oversees the day-to-day execution of activities across both programmes, ensuring the effective delivery of training, technical assistance, and investment facilitation. The Officer contributes to the development of strategies and roadmaps that enable sustainable partnerships between corporates, entrepreneurs, and social innovators, while also supporting knowledge sharing, reporting, and monitoring processes to ensure compliance with Caribbean Export’s obligations and donor requirements.

In delivering these responsibilities, the Technical Officer works in collaboration with the Deputy Executive Director and the Manager – Technical Programmes to support Caribbean Export’s strategic objectives in the areas of innovation, sustainability, private sector development, and regional cooperation, with a particular focus on enhancing the competitiveness and resilience of Caribbean MSMEs through social and digital transformation.

Responsibilities/Deliverables:

Programme Implementation and Coordination

  • Drive the operational delivery of Caribbean Export’s responsibilities within the EU-LAC Social Accelerator work plan, ensuring timely and effective implementation of assigned activities.
  • Coordinate the development and implementation of Social Innovation Labs in assigned Caribbean countries.
  • Support the design, delivery, and monitoring of national social innovation strategies and action plans.
  • Oversee the mapping of social innovation ecosystems and identify key stakeholders, opportunities, and gaps.
  • Manage the organization of project events, including hackathons, acceleration programmes, capacity-building workshops, and investment forums.
  • Facilitate the integration of digital tools and platforms to support programme delivery and beneficiary engagement.
  • Ensure compliance with project timelines, budgets, and reporting requirements.
  • Facilitate partnerships between Caribbean corporates and startups to co-create innovative digital solutions addressing specific corporate needs.
  • Collaborate with corporate partners to design, structure, and launch innovation challenges, focused on solving operational, sustainability, and digital transformation challenges through startup-led solutions.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with startup ecosystems across the Caribbean, including incubators, accelerators, and entrepreneur networks, to identify high-potential startups for participation in innovation challenges.
  • Identify opportunities to align corporate innovation needs with emerging startups capable of delivering digital solutions.
  • Strengthen linkages between the objectives of the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator and the EU-LAC Social Accelerator, particularly by fostering collaborations that support socially impactful digital innovations.
  • Provide technical support to participating startups and corporates to advance partnerships from ideation to implementation.

Technical Support and Capacity Building

  • Provide technical assistance to MSMEs, startups, and business support organizations (BSOs) on digital transformation and social innovation practices.
  • Implement tools to assess facilitate the participation of private sector and civil society stakeholders in the Agency’s interventions.
  • Contribute to the development of knowledge products, guidelines, training materials, and policy recommendations to strengthen social and digital innovation ecosystems.
  • Support mentoring programmes and provide guidance to enterprises participating in the Accelerators.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

  • Support the collection and analysis of data to monitor programme outcomes and impact.
  • Prepare regular technical reports and updates for internal and external stakeholders, including donors and consortium partners.
  • Contribute to the application of results-based management (RBM) practices across programme activities.

Resource Mobilization

  • Assist in the development of proposals and identification of funding opportunities for future social and digital innovation initiatives.
  • Collaborate with consortium partners and internal teams to support the sustainability of social innovation and digital innovation ecosystems beyond the life of the programmes.

Education and Experience:

Master’s degree in social sciences, innovation and entrepreneurship, international development, economics, business administration, or a related field.

A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field may be considered in lieu of a master’s degree, depending on the breadth and depth of the candidate’s professional experience.

Experience:

  • Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in social innovation, digital transformation, private sector development, or a related area.
  • Demonstrated experience supporting donor-funded projects with multi-stakeholder involvement.
  • Experience working with CARIFORUM states and knowledge of the regional development context is an asset.
  • Experience working with MSMEs, startups, and business support organizations in the Caribbean.
  • Project management certification is considered an asset.
    • Strong understanding and working knowledge of the regional and international donor environment, including funding mechanisms supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, and private sector development.

This position is open to all suitably qualified CARIFORUM nationals. Applicants must be legally authorized to live and work in the Dominican Republic. The Agency will not provide visa sponsorship or cover relocation expenses.

The selected candidate will be required to work in the Sub-Regional Office from Monday to Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Submission

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

  • Updated CV
  • Cover Letter outlining suitability for the Role

Interested applicants should submit documents to hr@carib-export.com by Friday, April 4, 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

EOI: Invitation to participate in Agroalimentaria 2025 Trade Show, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

UPDATE: NEW DEADLINE TO SUBMIT AN ONLINE EXPRESION OF INTEREST FORM IS APRIL 04, 2025.

Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export), with support from the European Union, extends an invitation to CARICOM-based agro-processing/agro-industrial companies to apply for a chance to exhibit at the upcoming Agroalimentaria 2025 trade show. This prestigious event is scheduled to take place from May 28-31, 2025, at the Dominican Fiesta Hotel & Convention Center in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Recognized as one of the most important food industry trade fairs in the Caribbean region, Agroalimentaria offers a unique platform for food, tobacco, and beverage firms to showcase their products to international buyers. The 9th edition of Agroalimentaria is organized by the Dominican Agroindustry Board (JAD) and the Dominican trade and investment promotion office, ProDominicana.

For more information about Agroalimentaria 2025, please visit: http://agroalimentaria.com.do/


Caribbean Export Support for Selected Firms

Caribbean Export will provide selected firms with the following:

  • Exhibition space within Caribbean Export’s Absolutely Caribbean Pavilion
  • Event registration
  • Booth design and décor
  • Participation in all official event activities, including:
    • Conferences
    • Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings with local and international buyers/distributors
    • Caribbean Kitchen, a specially designed gastronomy event

Participants are responsible for their own travel expenses, including airfare, accommodation, meals, ground transportation, shipping of samples, and any other associated costs.


Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for participation, firms must meet the following criteria:

  • Be registered and operating in a CARICOM country
  • Have been in operation for at least two years
  • Demonstrate export potential or be an existing exporter
  • Comply with relevant international standards, quality registration, and certification technical standards (e.g., HACCP, FSMA, ISO, etc.)
  • Have the capacity to meet export orders generated through participation in the trade show

The Application Process

Interested firms must submit an online Expression of Interest form no later than 4:00 p.m. AST (DR time) on April 04th, 2025.

Complete Expression of Interest Form HERE

Applications will be reviewed by Caribbean Export´s selection committee. Successful participants will be notified no later than April 8th, 2025.

Note: Submission of this form does not guarantee participation. Only fully completed applications will be considered and evaluated for suitability.

The information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality and will be used for selection review, B2B matchmaking, and Monitoring & Evaluation activities.

Download the full Expression of Interest below.

Consultancy: Project & Administrative Assistant

SUMMARY OF CONSULTANCY SERVICES REQUIRED

The Project and Administrative Assistant will provide consultancy services for the Technical Programmes Unit across all its technical programs. The Project and Administrative Assistant provides common project, administrative and logistical assistance to ensure consistency, quality service delivery, and enable effective project implementation. This also includes supporting all planning activities and assisting with the coordination of programme -related functions, and/or special events as appropriate. 

KEY SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED

The Project and Administrative Assistant:

Project/Programme Support

  • Assists the Technical Programmes unit with project development, strategic planning, coordination and administrative support to meet its objectives and activities directed at national, regional and international markets.
  • Works directly with selected BSO’s to facilitate the execution of the Agency’s interventions/activities.
  • Support project leads in the coordination of internal and external events, training sessions and workshops.
  • Provides support to the Grants team in the administration of the grant programmes. 
  • Performs information gathering and basic research tasks for the purpose of analysis and the preparation of reports.
  • Supports the Unit in its procurement processes by assisting with the shortlisting of candidates, channeling of communication effectively, and by supporting all logistics related to arranging interviews.

Administrative Support

  • Assists with the preparation of documents and efficient processing in the Agency’s Management and Reporting processes.
  • Prepares and maintains databases for corporate and project related activities and contracts.
  • Ensures accurate physical and electronic filing of documents in accordance with Agency Policies.
  • Supports the processes related to administrative and technical assistance payments.
  • Manages and maintains the Unit-level correspondences – including drafting formal letters to public and private counterparts, arranging signatures, sending and confirming receipt.
  • Support the implementation of internal controls used to mitigate risk and standardise outputs by ensuring the correct accounting of expenses, use of templates, and channelling of resources, and document submissions. This includes liaising with the Finance and Operations Unit to ensure compliance.
  • Supports the design and logistics of missions – clearances, meetings and travel logistics and other arrangements.
  • Supports the building of private sector awareness through the planning and coordination of educational activities such as workshops, seminars and targeted missions.
  • Provides support to the onboarding of new members to the Unit including collaboration with the HR, Operations and Finance, and IT departments to arrange provisions.
  • Assists with the preparation of monthly, quarterly and annual reports and departmental papers as required.
  • Schedules and coordinates meetings, events, interviews, appointments, and/or other similar activities.

EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor’s Degree in any of the following areas: Economics, Business/Office Administration, Project Management, Marketing or other related field.
  • A minimum of 2 years work experience in General Office Administration, Project Management/ Project Coordination or Accounting environment.
  • Experience functioning at the regional/international level in any of the above fields would be an asset;
  • Fluent in spoken and written English.  Ability to communicate in Spanish, French, or Dutch, would be an asset.
  • This position is open to CARIFORUM nationals only.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

Interested parties are to submit their CV and Motivation Letter to Mr. Wayne Elliott, Manager – Technical Programmes, at technicalprogrammes@carib-export.com by Sunday 23rd March 2025 11:59 pm.

Download the full terms of reference.

The EU-LAC Digital Accelerator launches the 3rd Open Call for European, Latin American, and Caribbean Corporate-Startup Partnerships

  • 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 HealthTech, 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.

EOI: Invitation to participate in the 2025 edition of the Vitafoods Europe Trade Show and In-market support, Barcelona, Spain

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:

  • Complete and submit the online application form below:
  • 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.

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