Opportunities

The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export), under the Regional Private Sector Development Programme III (RPSDP III), is mandated to enhance the competitiveness of Caribbean firms and strengthen private sector development across the CARIFORUM region. A key component of this mandate is investment promotion and facilitation through structured platforms that connect regional enterprises with international capital.

The Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF), launched in 2022, serves as the region’s flagship investment marketplace. Since its inception, four (4) editions of the CIF have been convened, progressively strengthening the region’s visibility, investor networks, and project screening mechanisms. Over successive cycles, CIF has evolved into a structured investment facilitation platform incorporating defined selection criteria and staged project review processes.

The CIF Call for Projects follows a two-step process: an initial Expression of Interest (EOI) stage, followed by an invitation to submit a full proposal for shortlisted applicants. During the CIF 2025 cycle, approximately one hundred and thirty (130) EOIs were submitted from across CARIFORUM Member States. Following technical review, twenty-four (24) submissions were identified as high-potential concepts aligned with CIF priority sectors and retained within the broader investment pipeline.

While these projects demonstrated innovation and commercial promise, they were not advanced to the full proposal stage due to gaps in investment readiness. Areas requiring strengthening included financial modelling, articulation of funding requirements and deal structure, risk analysis, integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, and overall proposal clarity.

This highlights a structural challenge within the regional investment ecosystem: promising concepts often require targeted technical support to bridge the gap between early-stage development and investor-ready presentation.

In response, Caribbean Export has designed the Project Refinery: Proposal Development Mentorship Programme as an upstream intervention to strengthen proposal development capacity and enhance the quality of projects entering future CIF cycles. From the twenty-four (24) pipeline projects identified, the strongest five (5) firms will be competitively selected based on investment potential, sector alignment, demonstrated growth prospects, readiness to engage in structured technical support, and balanced representation across CIF priority sectors.

The Programme will support firms operating in or aligned with CIF priority sectors, namely:

• Sustainable Agriculture
• Green Economy Transition
• Digital Transformation
• Logistics and Transport

By reinforcing investment readiness across these sectors, the Project Refinery Programme contributes directly to RPSDP III objectives related to SME competitiveness, sustainable growth, and regional economic transformation.

Purpose and Specific Objectives

The consultancy is expected to deliver at least five (5) investment-ready projects including structured proposals, financial models, and investor pitch decks, supported by a documented mentorship framework that can be replicated in future CIF cycles.

The Consultant is expected to:

1. Design and deliver a structured six (6) month online mentorship programme aimed at strengthening the investment readiness of at least five (5) selected firms drawn from the CIF 2025 project pipeline;
2. Conduct diagnostic assessments to identify technical, financial and structural gaps in each firm’s project documentation and investment positioning;
3. Provide targeted technical guidance in proposal structuring, financial modelling, deal articulation and ESG integration to elevate projects to investor-ready standards;
4. Support five (5) firms in developing complete, coherent and professionally structured investment proposals aligned with international investor expectations;
5. Develop or refine multi-year financial projections and investment frameworks that clearly articulate funding requirements, capital structure and expected returns;
6. Strengthen firms’ capacity to communicate their value proposition and investment opportunity through professionally developed investor pitch decks and structured pitch coaching;
7. Enhance the overall quality and competitiveness of the regional investment pipeline feeding into future CIF engagement cycles;
8. Provide Caribbean Export with a documented mentorship toolkit and structured framework that can be replicated or scaled in subsequent programme cycles.

Interested parties are kindly asked to review the full terms of reference and submit proposals in accordance with the requirements outlined in the terms of reference to Mr. Wayne Elliott, Head- Technical Programmes, technicalprogrammes@carib-export.com copied to Ms. Tonya Cummins, Access to Finance Officer at tcummins@carib-export.com with a copy to no later than 11:59 pm AST on May 22, 2026.

SUMMARY 

The Technical Officer – EU-LAC Digital Accelerator is responsible for supporting the implementation of the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator programme, with a dedicated focus on two core functions: engaging corporate partners to design and post innovation challenges on the platform, and identifying, cultivating, and supporting Caribbean startups to participate as solvers. The role is an eleven-month in-house consultancy based at Caribbean Export’s Subregional Office in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and reports directly to the Deputy Executive Director who serves as the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator’s Programme Manager for Caribbean Export. 

The EU-LAC Digital Accelerator is a flagship innovation programme funded by the European Union, designed to foster partnerships between established corporations and high-potential startups across Latin America and the Caribbean. Through a challenge-based open innovation model, corporations post specific operational, sustainability, or digital transformation challenges, and startups from across the region compete to propose and implement solutions. Caribbean Export plays a key role in driving Caribbean participation in the programme, with responsibility for mobilising corporate challenge issuers and building a robust pipeline of Caribbean startup solvers. 

Working under the direct supervision of the Deputy Executive Director, the Technical Officer manages the day-to-day liaison with corporate partners and startups, coordinates outreach and engagement activities, supports challenge design and posting, guides startups through the application process, and facilitates the matching of startups with relevant corporate challenges. The Officer works in close collaboration with other team members of the implementation unit and the Deputy Executive Director, contributing to Caribbean Export’s broader objective of strengthening the Caribbean innovation ecosystem through corporate-startup collaboration. 

RESPONSIBILITIES/DELIVERABLES: 

Corporate Engagement and Challenge Development 

• Identify, engage, and manage relationships with Caribbean corporations interested in participating in the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator as challenge issuers, building an active and diversified pipeline of corporate partners across priority sectors. 

• Liaise with corporate partners to understand their innovation needs and support the design, structuring, and posting of innovation challenges on the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator platform, ensuring challenges are clearly articulated, sector-relevant, and attractive to startup solvers. 

• Coordinate meetings, briefings, and consultations with corporate partners throughout the challenge lifecycle – from initial engagement and challenge design through to startup selection and partnership advancement – ensuring a high-quality experience for participating corporations. 

• Track corporate partner engagement and challenge development status, maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of pipeline activity, communications, and outcomes. 

• Promote the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator among target corporate sectors, identifying strategic opportunities to expand corporate participation and diversify the range of challenges posted on the platform. 

Startup Identification and Cultivation 

• Map and identify high-potential startups across the Caribbean region capable of addressing posted corporate challenges, drawing on incubators, accelerators, entrepreneur networks, and startup ecosystem databases. 

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Caribbean startup ecosystem actors – including incubators, accelerators, and entrepreneur networks – to develop and sustain a robust and diverse pipeline of startup solvers for active and upcoming corporate challenges. 

• Support and guide startups in understanding challenge requirements and developing competitive, well-structured proposals in response to posted corporate challenges, providing feedback and coaching throughout the application process. 

• Facilitate the matching and pairing of startups with relevant corporate challenges, assessing startup capability, solution fit, and readiness ahead of challenge applications. 

• Provide light-touch technical guidance and mentorship to participating startups throughout the challenge process, supporting the advancement of startup-corporate partnerships from ideation to implementation. 

Programme Implementation and Coordination 

• Support the day-to-day operational delivery of Caribbean Export’s responsibilities under the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator, assisting the Deputy Executive Director in tracking progress against programme milestones and ensuring compliance with timelines and reporting requirements. 

• Maintain and update programme databases, contact lists, and tracking tools (such as Monday.com) covering corporate partners, startups, challenges, and outcomes. 

• Assist in the preparation and organisation of Digital Accelerator events, including challenge launch events, matchmaking sessions, pitch days, and programme showcases. 

• Undertake any other tasks as may be assigned by the Technical Officer – EU-LAC Social and Digital Innovation and the Deputy Executive Director. 

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting 

• Track and report on key programme indicators, including the number of corporate partners engaged, challenges posted, startups cultivated, proposals submitted, and partnerships advanced, contributing to Caribbean Export’s reporting obligations under the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator. 

• Assist in the preparation of regular progress reports and updates for internal and external stakeholders, including the European Commission, consortium partners, and Caribbean Export management. 

CORE & TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES 

1. Corporate Innovation and Open Innovation: Understanding of corporate innovation models, open innovation frameworks, and challenge-based innovation, with the ability to engage corporate partners in designing and posting meaningful, well-structured innovation challenges. 

2. Startup Ecosystem Knowledge: Familiarity with startup ecosystems in the Caribbean and/or LAC region, including the ability to identify, assess, and engage high-potential startups as solvers for corporate challenges. 

3. Partnership Development and Stakeholder Engagement: Proven ability to build and maintain productive relationships with diverse stakeholders, including corporate partners, startups, and ecosystem actors, and to facilitate effective collaboration between them. 

4. Business Development and Account Management: Demonstrated ability to manage a pipeline of corporate and startup partners, conduct outreach, track engagement, and advance relationships through a structured process towards concrete outcomes. 

5. Programme Coordination: Experience contributing to the delivery of multi-stakeholder programmes, with the ability to track activities, manage communications, and support timely delivery against programme milestones. 

6. Communication and Facilitation: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage credibly with both corporate and startup audiences, draft programme communications, and facilitate productive meetings and consultations. 

7. Digital Proficiency: Strong proficiency in Microsoft 365 and other digital collaboration tools, with the ability to leverage technology – including artificial intelligence tools – to support efficient programme delivery. 

8. Adaptability: Capacity to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, maintaining accuracy, attention to detail, and high standards of professionalism. 

9. Multilingual Communication: Fluency in English and Spanish is required. Proficiency in French or Dutch is considered an asset. 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: 

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, entrepreneurship, innovation management, economics, technology, international development, communications, or a related field. 

• A postgraduate qualification in a relevant field would be considered an asset. Experience with innovation ecosystems, accelerators, or corporate-startup collaboration models would be a strong advantage. 

EXPERIENCE: 

• Minimum of four (year) years of relevant professional experience in startup ecosystem development, corporate innovation, business development, open innovation, or a closely related area. 

• Demonstrated experience engaging with corporate partners or clients in a business development, account management, or programme delivery capacity. 

• Experience working with startups, incubators, accelerators, or entrepreneur networks, including the ability to assess startup capability and support proposal or pitch development. 

• Familiarity with innovation challenge models, open innovation platforms, or corporate venturing and startup collaboration frameworks is a strong asset. 

• Experience working with CARIFORUM states and knowledge of the Caribbean and LAC regional development context is an asset. 

• Prior experience within EU-funded or donor-funded programmes, or in an international development organisation, would be an advantage. 

Additional Requirements: 

• Strong proficiency in business technology tools like Microsoft 365, Monday.com, digital media tools, social media tools for programme promotion and communications software. 

• Ability to leverage artificial intelligence tools, like large language models (i.e. ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity), to undertake tasks related to implementation. 

• Ability to travel occasionally, as needed, for programme activities, corporate meetings, startup events, and missions within the Caribbean region. 

This position is open to all suitably qualified CARIFORUM nationals. Applicants must be legally authorised to live and work in the Dominican Republic. The Agency will not provide visa sponsorship or cover relocation expenses. This is a temporary consultancy that is intended to be carried out in-person in the office. The selected candidate will be required to work in the Subregional Office from Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. 

Interested applicants should submit an updated CV and a cover letter outlining their suitability for the role to hr@carib-export.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applications close on May 1^st, 2026. 

This contract will be considered an In-House Consultancy and individuals engaged will not be considered “staff members” of Caribbean Export Development Agency. Their conditions of service will be governed by their contract and the general terms and conditions for In-House Consultants. In-House Consultants are responsible for determining their tax liabilities and payment of any taxes and/or duties, in accordance with local or other applicable laws. 

Caribbean Export Development Agency invites applications from suitably qualified CARIFORUM nationals for the position of Programme Assistant – EU-LAC Social Accelerator, to support the implementation of a flagship regional programme funded by the European Union under the Global Gateway Investment Agenda.

This six-month in-house consultancy, based at the Agency’s Subregional Office in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the delivery of impactful initiatives that foster social innovation and inclusive development across the Caribbean.

About the Programme

The EU-LAC Social Accelerator is a four-year regional initiative designed to strengthen social innovation ecosystems across Latin America and the Caribbean. As the implementing partner for the Caribbean, Caribbean Export leads a portfolio of activities across Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Barbados, and Trinidad & Tobago, including the establishment of Social Innovation Labs, capacity-building interventions, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge development.

Role Overview

The Programme Assistant will provide operational, administrative, and programmatic support to the Technical Officer – EU-LAC Programmes, contributing to the effective execution of programme activities. The role involves close collaboration with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure timely delivery, high-quality outputs, and compliance with donor requirements.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting programme implementation, coordination, and tracking of activities
• Assisting in the organisation of workshops, events, and stakeholder engagements
• Contributing to research, documentation, and knowledge management
• Supporting monitoring, reporting, and results-based management processes
• Providing administrative and logistical support to programme operations

Profile of the Ideal Candidate

The successful candidate will have:

• A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as international development, social sciences, business administration, or communications
• At least three (3) years of relevant experience in programme support, project coordination, or administrative roles
• Strong organisational, communication, and research skills
• Experience working in donor-funded or international development environments (an asset)
• Fluency in English and Spanish (required), with additional languages considered an advantage

Additional Information

This is an in-person consultancy requiring attendance at the Subregional Office from Monday to Friday. Applicants must be legally authorised to work in the Dominican Republic. The Agency will not provide visa sponsorship or relocation support.

How to Apply

Interested applicants are invited to submit:

• An updated CV
• A cover letter outlining their suitability for the role

Applications should be sent to hr@carib-export.com.

Application deadline: April 7, 2026 at 4:30 PM (AST)

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Download the full TOR below.

Caribbean Export Development Agency is inviting qualified consultants (individuals, firms, or teams) to submit proposals for the development of the “Social Innovation Guide to the Caribbean”, under the EU-LAC Social Accelerator Programme, funded by the European Union through the Global Gateway Investment Agenda.

As the implementing partner for the EU-LAC Social Accelerator in the Caribbean, Caribbean Export is advancing efforts to strengthen social innovation ecosystems across the region. Through ongoing mapping and diagnostic work in Barbados, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and Trinidad and Tobago, the Agency is generating critical data on social innovation actors, ecosystems, and opportunities. This consultancy will transform that knowledge into a comprehensive, accessible, and practical regional guide.

The selected consultant will be responsible for producing a bilingual (English and Spanish), professionally designed publication that synthesises ecosystem data, profiles key actors and social innovation poles, and provides actionable guidance for both existing ecosystem stakeholders and aspiring social innovators. The Guide will serve as the first multi-country, systematised knowledge product of its kind in the Caribbean, supporting collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and inclusive development across the region.

Scope of the Assignment

The consultancy will include:

• Reviewing and synthesising social innovation ecosystem data across four Caribbean countries
• Developing regional and country-level profiles
• Producing a practical “how-to” guide for social innovators
• Coordinating stakeholder validation processes
• Delivering a bilingual, publication-ready Guide (digital, print, and web formats)
• Proposing a dissemination and outreach strategy

Duration and Budget

The consultancy is expected to commence on 20 April 2026 and conclude by 20 August 2026 (approximately four months). The maximum budget allocated for this assignment is EUR 7,000, with payments disbursed across key milestones.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate:

• At least five (5) years of experience in research, writing, and publication development
• Proven ability to produce high-quality knowledge products
• Strong analytical and editorial skills
• Fluency in English and Spanish
• Experience working in the Caribbean or similar development contexts

Experience in social innovation, ecosystem development, or EU-funded programmes will be considered an asset.

How to Apply

Interested applicants are required to submit:

• Technical and financial proposals
• Profile/CV(s) demonstrating relevant experience
• Two examples of previous publications
• Writing samples in English and Spanish
• Completed Applicant Declaration Form

Proposals must be submitted via email to maybar@carib-export.com with the subject line:
“SOCIAL INNOVATION GUIDE PROPOSAL [Name of Consultant]”

Deadline for submission: 7 April 2026 at 5:00 PM AST

Download full TOR below

Summary

The Communications Coordinator (Consultant) will support the Agency in implementing effective communication and visibility strategies that enhance its reputation, ensure consistent messaging, and increase awareness of its programmes and projects among key stakeholders and donors.

Working under the Lead – Partnerships, Advocacy & Reporting (P.A.R), the Consultant will contribute to strengthening the Agency’s visibility in alignment with donor-specific requirements and the Agency’s communication strategy.

Scope of Services

The Consultant will support multi-channel communication activities; produce written, visual, and digital content; assist with media engagement; and ensure that all communication and branding outputs align with organisational standards and donor guidelines.

The role requires strong writing skills, sound judgement, and the ability to collaborate across departments to ensure clear, consistent, and impactful storytelling.

Knowledge and Experience

• Knowledge of CARIFORUM countries, regional integration processes, and private sector development.
• Demonstrated experience supporting communications and visibility initiatives.
• Experience in project-based communications execution.
• Ability to coordinate external creative resources.
• Skilled in producing and editing simple multimedia content.
• Familiarity with digital tools such as Canva, WordPress, Mailchimp, and social media analytics.

Education and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Digital Media, or related field.
• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in a similar role within a comparable organisation.
• Fluent in English. Ability to communicate in French, Spanish, or Dutch is highly desirable.
• National of a CARIFORUM Member State.

Administration

If this opportunity excites you, send us your CV along with a motivation letter explaining why you’re the right fit to hr@carib-export.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Applications close at 11:59pm on Thursday 26 March 2026.

Download the full TOR below.

The Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) returns in 2026, hosted in Barbados, as the region’s premier platform for advancing transformative Caribbean projects toward investment. Organised by the Caribbean Export Development Agency, CIF continues to drive high-impact investments that power the Caribbean’s sustainability, digital transformation, regional integration, and inclusive growth.

For CIF 2026, the Forum is seeking advanced, investment-ready projects that can be further packaged and promoted to global investors. The focus is on identifying strong, commercially viable initiatives that demonstrate measurable national or regional impact and are poised for expansion or scaling. Projects should require capital investment of over US $3 million and align with at least one of CIF’s priority areas, the green economy, digital transformation, sustainable agriculture, logistics and transportation

Participation in CIF 2026 offers project developers the opportunity to gain international visibility, access technical support to refine and package their projects for investment, and engage directly with investors, development partners, and regional institutions committed to advancing sustainable growth across the Caribbean.

CIF 2026 is seeking advanced, scalable initiatives with measurable national or regional impact, aligned with the Forum’s priority investment sectors:

Priority Investment Sectors

1. Sustainable Agriculture– Innovate for food security and climate resilience! We are seeking projects that modernise Caribbean agriculture through sustainable practices, agritech solutions, and circular-economy models, from waste-to-energy and organic inputs to precision farming and smart irrigation.
2. Green Economy Transition– Accelerate sustainability and climate-smart growth!  Submit initiatives that advance the region’s low-carbon transition, including renewable energy, recycling, carbon reduction technologies, and energy-efficient or environmentally sustainable manufacturing.
3. Digital Transformation– Step into the digital future! Present solutions that harness digital platforms, automation, and smart systems to enhance efficiency, competitiveness, and access to regional and international markets.
4. Logistics & Transportation– Connect the Caribbean! We invite projects that strengthen regional trade logistics, transport infrastructure, and inter-island connectivity, from air and maritime cargo services to warehousing, fleet management, and sustainable mobility innovations.

Why Submit Your Project

Projects selected for participation in CIF 2026 and the Investment Village will benefit from the following opportunities:

• Visibility: Gain international exposure by presenting your project at CIF 2026 to a target audience of investors, financiers, and strategic partners.
• Credibility: Become part of a curated pipeline of investment-ready projects promoted by Caribbean Export and its regional and international partners.
• Targeted Support: While direct guidance is not provided during the application stage, selected projects will have the opportunity to receive targeted, time-bound support to strengthen investment readiness and refine project presentations for investor engagement.
• Investment Engagement: Connect directly with investors and other business stakeholders through structured engagement, including the Investment Village pitching process.
• Impact: Contribute to advancing the Caribbean’s sustainable, digital, and inclusive growth agenda through transformative investment opportunities aligned with regional priorities.
• Practical Experience: Strengthen the project pitch through real investor-facing experience. Presenting in a structured format helps refine the value proposition, improve clarity and timing, and focus on what investors typically look for.
• Investor Feedback: Gain insights from investor questions and reactions. This can help identify key gaps (e.g., financials, risks, market validation) and guide improvements to increase investment readiness.

Application Process – Two Steps to the CIF Stage

• Step 1: Expression of Interest (EOI)

Applicants are required to submit an Expression of Interest by March 15, 2026, by completing the online form here. The EOI should briefly outline the project concept, investment required, sector alignment, and expected impact. Please download the full EOI document below.

• Step 2: Full Proposal (By Invitation Only)

Following the review of EOIs, only shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a Full Proposal by May 15, 2026. The Full Proposal should not exceed 50 pages and must be presented in letter-size format.

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

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

Eligibility

Projects must be implemented in CARIFORUM Member States, with a minimum investment requirement of US $3 million. Private-sector enterprises, cooperatives, public-private partnerships, and social enterprises are eligible to apply.

*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.

​​The EU-LAC Digital Accelerator invites business partnerships to apply to its open call #5. Partnerships must involve a corporate entity facing a digital challenge and a startup or SME developing a solution to address it.    

• ​For open call #5, the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator opens a new opportunity area: sustainable mobility. However, applications from all industries are welcome.    

• ​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 acceleration services valued at up to €30,000 (€40,000 if a Caribbean partner is involved), organised around three pillars: proof of concept, business case, and investment and scaling.  

Corporates and startups look for each other, but don’t know how to make it work 

According to the MIT Sloane Management Review, 7 out of 10 corporate-startup collaborations fail to achieve the expected results. A wide range of factors can explain this high failure rate: misaligned cultures and objectives, limited flexibility in the corporate’s legacy systems, lack of product validation, etc. ​  

​Through a dedicated corporate-startup acceleration programme, the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator supports international partnerships from Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean to achieve their digital innovation goals.  

​“Startups allow corporates to explore innovative solutions to their unsolved needs and problems. They provide unique insights that have not been considered or tested. It ultimately has a real impact on the profit and loss statement, generating new revenue streams or saving costs.”  Miguel Rodríguez, Open Innovation Consultant, EU-LAC Digital Accelerator

Open call #5 at a glance 

​Open call #5 for corporate-startup partnerships is open from 6 February 2026 to 12 June 2026.   

​​Applying partnerships must include: 

1. A corporate facing a product or process-related challenge.   
2. A​ startup or SME providing a digital solution to this challenge

​Applying partnerships must be located in distinct regions (either the European Union, Latin America, or the Caribbean). ​For example, a Caribbean startup can only apply alongside a European or Latin American corporate entity.  ​  

​To help corporates and startups without a partner find an innovation partner, the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator has launched a matching platform.  ​  

​With over 40 corporate challenges and close to 1,900 startups willing to bring their digital expertise, the matching platform has grown into a robust marketplace where corporates and startups can connect and agree on a partnership before applying together to the open call.  

Once selected, partnerships will receive tailored acceleration services 

Taking a close look at the common challenges corporates and startups face when they work together, the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator designed a 6-month¹ acceleration programme with a dozen acceleration services around three pillars:  

• Proof of concept: Validate the tech feasibility of the solution and ensure it answers a real need. 
• ​Business case: Build a business model that generates revenue and establish a winning international global expansion strategy.  
• ​Investment & Scaling: Produce and sell at scale, and position the partnership to attract investment to improve the newly built solution.

In a matter of months, through a supervised collaboration process, corporate-startup partnerships can bring a solution closer to commercialisation, whereas without supervision, such a process can take years and offer a lower likelihood of success. 

Up to €10,500 in grants for startups to support proof-of-concept development and execution  

A proof of concept is an essential line on a startup’s resume for long-term collaboration with corporates. 

It validates technical feasibility before investing further into a prototype and, at a later stage, an MVP. 

The proof-of-concept service is the most popular offering for corporate-startup partnerships. For this reason, the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator unlocked grants of up to €10,500 per startup:  

• 7,000 for proof-of-concept development.  
• ​Up to €2,000 to travel to the corporate’s premises to run a proof of concept experiment.  
• ​Up to €1,500 to transport the necessary equipment to test the solution.  

Startups can check their eligibility and apply for the grant by contacting their assigned mentor at the beginning of the programme.  ​  

​The EU-LAC Digital Accelerator has already onboarded 45 corporate-startup partnerships  

‘’We applied because the EU-LAC programme provides the right framework to validate our technology in real regional contexts, while enabling us to advance our PoC in a structured, focused, and impact-driven way.’’  Morten Wolter, CEO at Wimesa  

More than 45 corporate-startup partnerships have either completed the acceleration programme or are currently participating in it. Interested corporates and startups can review the product and market impact delivered by the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator, with more than 20 case studies published on the accelerator’s website under the Success stories page.  

Partnerships can submit their application form in 10 minutes via the open call page, where they can also download the “Guidelines for Applicants,” which detail, in particular, eligibility requirements and evaluation criteria. 

We are pleased to inform you that, within the framework of the EU-LAC Social Accelerator Programme, financed by the European Union through the Global Gateway Investment Agenda, the Third-Party Financial Support Call for Proposals has been officially launched. This initiative aims to strengthen social innovation and support projects with a direct impact on reducing inequalities and fostering social cohesion across Latin America and the Caribbean. The call is open to non-profit organization corsortia/partnerships legally established in Latin America and the Caribbean or in European Union Member States.

Eligible applicants include civil society organizations, sectoral associations, cooperatives and social enterprises, innovation centers, local authorities, universities, and local public entities.

Each proposal must be submitted in partnership, promoting collaboration among organizations from different sectors and EU-LAC countries, and must include at least one entity established in Latin America or the Caribbean.

Proposals must be aligned with the EU-LAC Global Gateway Investment Agenda, from its social dimension, and contribute to a green, digital, fair, and inclusive transition. Priority will be given to initiatives with a demonstrative effect that are already in an acceleration or implementation phase and that provide evidence of impact in areas such as gender equality and youth empowerment, social innovation, and human rights within the private sector. Special consideration will be given to proposals that apply intersectional approaches and directly benefit women, youth, and vulnerable groups.

From a financial perspective, the call has a total budget of EUR 1.8 million, with grants per project ranging from EUR 100,000 to EUR 250,000, and an expected implementation period of 18 to 24 months.

The deadline for submission is 8 April 2026 at 16:00 (local time), as indicated in the official guidelines.

For more information and direct access to the application platform, please consult the following official links:

• Calls for Proposals: https://eulacsocialaccelerator.cainco.org.bo/publico/convocatorias
• Applicant Registration: https://eulacsocialaccelerator.cainco.org.bo/publico/registro_postulante

For assistance with the application platform or proposal submission process, please contact socialaccelerator@cainco.org.bo

Nos place informarles que, en el marco del programa EU-LAC Social Accelerator, financiado por la Unión Europea a través de la Agenda de Inversión Global Gateway, se ha lanzado formalmente la Convocatoria de Apoyo Financiero a Terceros (AFT). Esta iniciativa tiene como objetivo fortalecer la innovación social y apoyar proyectos con impacto directo en la reducción de desigualdades y el fortalecimiento de la cohesión social en América Latina y el Caribe. 

La convocatoria está dirigida a consorcios de organizaciones sin fines de lucro legalmente establecidas en países de América Latina y el Caribe o en Estados miembros de la Unión Europea. Podrán postular organizaciones de la sociedad civil, asociaciones sectoriales, cooperativas y empresas sociales, centros de innovación, autoridades locales, universidades y entidades públicas de alcance local. 
 

Cada propuesta deberá presentarse en alianza, promoviendo la colaboración entre actores de distintos sectores y países de la región EU-LAC, y deberá incluir al menos una entidad establecida en América Latina o el Caribe. 

Las propuestas elegibles deberán estar alineadas con la Agenda de Inversiones Global Gateway EU-LAC, desde su dimensión social, y contribuir a una transición verde, digital, justa e inclusiva. Se priorizarán iniciativas con efecto demostrativo, que se encuentren en fase de aceleración o implementación, y que cuenten con evidencias de impacto en áreas como la igualdad de género y el empoderamiento juvenil, la innovación social y los derechos humanos en el sector privado. Asimismo, se valorarán especialmente aquellas propuestas que integren enfoques interseccionales y que beneficien de manera directa a mujeres, jóvenes y grupos en situación de vulnerabilidad. 

En términos financieros, la convocatoria cuenta con un presupuesto total de EUR 1.8 millones, y contempla subvenciones por proyecto que oscilan entre EUR 100,000 y EUR 250,000, con una duración prevista de 18 a 24 meses. 

 
El plazo para la presentación de solicitudes vence el 8 de abril de 2026 a las 16:00 horas (hora local), conforme a lo establecido en la guía de la convocatoria. 

Para más información y acceso a la plataforma de postulación, pueden consultar los siguientes enlaces oficiales: 

• Convocatorias: https://eulacsocialaccelerator.cainco.org.bo/publico/convocatorias 
• Registro de postulantes: https://eulacsocialaccelerator.cainco.org.bo/publico/registro_postulante 

Para asistencia con la plataforma de solicitud o el proceso de presentación de propuestas, por favor contacte socialaccelerator@cainco.org.bo

Summary

The Communications Coordinator will support the Agency in developing, coordinating and implementing effective communication and visibility strategies that enhance its reputation, ensure consistent messaging, and increase awareness of its work among key stakeholders, donors, and the wider public. This role is essential to strengthening the Agency’s visibility in the delivery of its programmes and projects, in alignment with donor specific visibility requirements and the Agency’s communication strategy.

Scope of Services

The Coordinator will be responsible for executing multi-channel communication strategies; producing written, visual, and digital content; supporting media engagement; and ensuring that all communication and branding outputs align with organisational standards and partner/donor guidelines. The role requires strong writing skills, creative judgment, strategic thinking, and the ability to work across departments to ensure consistent and effective storytelling.

Knowledge and Experience

• Knowledge of CARIFORUM countries, regional integration processes, and private sector development.
• Demonstrated experience developing and implementing integrated communications and visibility strategies.
• Experience in project-based communications planning and execution.
• Proven ability to manage external creative resources (designers, videographers, photographers).
• Skilled in producing and editing simple multimedia content (graphics, photography, video).
• Familiarity with digital communications tools and platforms such as Canva, WordPress, Mailchimp, and other social media analytics.

Education and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Digital Media, or related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in a similar role within a comparable organisation.
• Fluent in English.  Ability to communicate in French, Spanish or Dutch, highly desirable
• National of a CARIFORUM Member State.

Administration

If this opportunity excites you, send us your CV along with a motivation letter explaining why you’re the right fit to hr@carib-export.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Applications close at 11:59pm on Thursday 22, January 2025.

Download the full TOR below.

Summary of Consultancy Services Required

The Programme Coordinator – Administration will provide consultancy services to the Technical Programmes Unit across all its technical programmes. The role provides common project, administrative, and logistical assistance to ensure consistency, quality service delivery, and effective project implementation. This includes supporting planning activities, coordinating programme-related functions, and assisting with the organisation of events, workshops, and missions as appropriate.

Scope of Services

The Consultant will work closely with the Manager – Technical Programmes and the project leads to ensure the efficient coordination and administration of the Unit’s work programme.

Knowledge and Experience

• Basic knowledge of the economic and social development issues in the Caribbean region.
• Basic understanding of CARICOM/CARIFORUM and other relevant trading blocs.
• Basic knowledge of donor agencies that offer funding opportunities.
• Knowledge and practice of international and local business etiquette for government, business, and social interactions.
• Understanding of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services, including needs assessment, quality assurance, and satisfaction evaluation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, SharePoint) and project management tools such as MS Project.

Education and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Business or Office Administration, Project Management, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in general office administration, project coordination, or an accounting environment.
• At least two (2) years’ experience functioning at the regional or international level would be an asset.
• Fluent in spoken and written English; ability to communicate in Spanish, French, or Dutch would be an asset.
• Must be a national of a CARIFORUM Member State

Administration

If this opportunity excites you, send us your CV along with a motivation letter explaining why you’re the right fit to hr@carib-export.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Applications close on Sunday, December 14, 2025.

Caribbean Export Development Agency, as a regional partner of the EU-LAC Social Accelerator under the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy, is leading the development of national social innovation poles across Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and the Dominican Republic. As part of this effort—and in alignment with the Programme efforts—we are launching a comprehensive Social Innovation Ecosystem Mapping Survey to identify key actors, initiatives, and collaboration networks driving social impact in each country.

This mapping is a foundational step in strengthening national social innovation ecosystems. It will help identify existing and emerging social innovation poles, understand the relationships among stakeholders, and assess priority thematic areas, challenges, and opportunities for future action. The process follows a gender-transformative, intersectional, and human rights–based approach, consistent with the EU’s Gender Action Plan III (GAP III).

We invite public institutions, private sector organisations, academia, civil society organisations, social enterprises, hubs, accelerators, startups, investors, and community-based actors engaged in social innovation to participate in this important mapping exercise which will conclude November 19^th , 2025.  Your contribution is essential to ensure that the diagnostic accurately reflects the realities, strengths, and needs of the ecosystem.

Who Should Participate?

• Public sector agencies
• NGOs, CSOs, community organisations
• Universities, research centres, innovation labs
• Startups, SMEs, and impact-driven enterprises
• Hubs, accelerators, and business support organisations
• Foundations, cooperation agencies, and impact investors
• Organisations working with women, youth, and vulnerable groups

Why Your Input Matters

Your responses will:

• Contribute to a comprehensive mapping of social innovation actors and initiatives.
• Support the identification and characterisation of social innovation poles.
• Inform the national social innovation diagnostic and the future National Strategy and Roadmap for your country.
• Strengthen the baseline for monitoring and evaluating the programme’s impact.

Participate in the Survey

We kindly ask all ecosystem actors to complete the survey according to your Country or Impact or residence,  and share it with relevant organisations within your networks. The following survey links are provided for each country:

Barbados:

Barbados – Social Accelerator Survey

Dominican Republic:

Dominican Republic – Social Accelerator Survey

Trinidad and Tobago:

Trinidad and Tobago -Social Accelerator Survey

Jamaica:

Jamaica – Social Accelerator Survey

Your participation will play a key role in co-creating a stronger, more connected, and more inclusive social innovation ecosystem across the Caribbean.

For questions or additional information, please contact: maybar@carib-export.com

Overview

The Digital Transformation Grant funded by the European Union helps Caribbean MSMEs adopt digital technologies to increase competitiveness, efficiency, and market access.

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What We Fund

• E-commerce & digital marketing platforms
• Business process automation (CRM, ERP, POS, cloud accounting)
• Cybersecurity & data protection (tools, training, GDPR-compliance)
• Mobile apps & digital products (software, creative content, SaaS)
• Digital trade & supply chain integration (e-payments, logistics platforms)
• Staff digital skills training

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Who Can Apply

• Firms legally registered and operating in a CARIFORUM member state
• Minimum 2 years of operations, supported by financial statements for the last two years
• Must be exporting or demonstrate credible export potential
• Must have a company bank account
• Strong encouragement for women-led, youth-led, and rural-based MSMEs

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Funding Available

• Project size: EUR 80,000 – 100,000
• Grant funding: up to EUR 50,000 EU Financing (max. 60% of eligible costs)
• Beneficiary contribution: minimum 40%
• Duration: up to 12 months

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How to Apply

1. Download and complete the official Digital Transformation Application Form and Budget Template.
2. Submit all documents by email ONLY to grants@carib-export.com before 2nd December 2025, 4:30 PM AST*.
3. Email subject line: “Application – BRIDGE Digital Transformation Grant – [Name of Applicant]”.

*Kindly note the deadline has been extended from November 9, to December 2, 2025.

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Digital Check-Up Tool

Access the digital business assessment here: Digital Check-Up Tool