The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB, the Bank), through its Cultural and Creative Industries Innovation Fund (CIIF), has announced a  grant opportunity valued at USD190,000 to support the hosting of regional events and conferences that advance the growth and competitiveness of the Caribbean’s Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs). Applications close on January 31, 2026.

This call seeks proposals for events and conferences scheduled between March 1, 2026 and February 28, 2027 that address key development priorities for CCIs. Eligible activities should focus on facilitating policy dialogue to strengthen the enabling environment for CCIs; building capacity for Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) to improve competitiveness; enhancing sector data and market intelligence; promoting marketplace and trade activities; or preserving cultural heritage. 

In announcing the initiative, Fund Coordinator Malene Joseph stated that “CDB, through this grant call, aims to support home-grown activities that help unlock pathways for our creative Caribbean talent and businesses to become even more empowered. Beyond facilitating necessary policy dialogue and building data-driven insights CIIF is further enabling creative MSMEs by offering financial support to these targeted events.”

Six grants will be awarded with a total grant allocation of USD190,000 across three streams. Two grants of USD25,000 will fund initiatives targeting improving the enabling environment for industries in culture. While two grants of USD20,000 will support data intelligence themed activities and the final two grants of USD50,000 will finance MSME market preparation and market access activities. Applicants must be formally registered entities, this includes Business Support Organisations (BSOs), Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), universities, Community-Based Organisations (CBOs), or government agencies serving the Creative Industries sector. Entities must have at least three years’ experience hosting industry events and provide co-financing of at least 10% of the total project budget. Interested entities can submit applications via https://cdb.submittable.com/submit. CIIF will also host a virtual consultation on January 14, 2026 to guide potential applicants.

Established in 2017, CIIF enables the region’s cultural and creative industries to become globally competitive by fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. The fund delivers technical and grant support to stakeholders across the Bank’s19 Borrowing Member Countries.