Government launches new tourism grants

The Ministry of Tourism and Trade Development is once again giving out grants of up to CI$50,000 to help Caymanians who have tourism-related projects that they would like to get off the ground. The Visitor Experience Development Grant (VEDG) Programme will reopen on March 23rd, for the third time. Government said this grant programme continued its commitment to supporting Caymanian entrepreneurs and strengthened the country’s tourism offerings.

The VEDG Programme provides financial support of up to CI$50,000 to Caymanians seeking to develop new tourism-related products or services in the Cayman Islands. The initiative aims to encourage innovation within the tourism sector while helping local entrepreneurs turn their ideas into viable visitor experiences that enhance the Cayman Islands’ reputation as a world-class destination.

Hon Gary Rutty, Minister for Tourism and Trade Development, said the relaunch reflected government’s ongoing efforts to ensure that Caymanians played a central role in shaping the future of the tourism industry.

“The Visitor Experience Development Grant Programme is about empowering Caymanians to bring their ideas to life and actively participate in the growth of our tourism sector,” Mr Rutty said. “By supporting new and innovative tourism products and services, we are strengthening our industry while creating opportunities for Caymanians to build sustainable businesses.”

The programme is designed to support a wide range of tourism-related concepts, including but not limited to cultural experiences, eco-tourism ventures, culinary offerings, heritage-based attractions, and other unique visitor activities that showcase the Cayman Islands’ culture, environment and community.

Since its initial launch, the VEDG Programme has already supported 18 Caymanian entrepreneurs with developing and expanding their tourism offerings, contributing to the diversification of experiences available to visitors, while creating new economic opportunities locally.

Applicants must be Caymanian and present a viable and actionable concept that enhances the visitor experience and aligns with the Cayman Islands’ broader tourism development goals. Successful applicants may receive funding of up to CI$50,000 to support eligible start-up or development costs associated with their proposed tourism product or service.

Interested applicants are encouraged to review the programme guidelines and submit their applications before the deadline of 1 May. Further information about eligibility criteria, funding requirements and the application process can be found at:https://ourcayman.ky/en-us/business-in-tourism/how-to/visitor-experience-development grant-programme