Opportunities

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/

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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.

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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

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The Application Process

Interested firms must submit an online Expression of Interest form no later than 4:00 p.m. AST (DR time) on March 25^th, 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 March 31^st, 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.

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 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.

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:
  • Vitafoods Europe Application Form
• 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.

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

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

Why Seize This Opportunity?

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

How to Get Involved?

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

Elements of the Full Proposal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Objective: The consultancy aims to:

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

Requirements

This consultancy requires the following qualifications and experience:

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

Submission

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

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

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

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

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

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

Objective

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

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

Requirements

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

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

Submission

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

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

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

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

Background

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

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

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

Objective

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

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

Requirements

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

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

Submission

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

• Technical Proposal
• Financial Proposal
• Applicant Declaration Form

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

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

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

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

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