The payments of those grants, aimed at Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise businesses (MSMEs) and piloted by Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development, Hon Shereen D. Flax-Charles (AL), was launched this morning, September 14, 2020.

Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1), speaking at the launch ceremony, said COVID-19 has caused and continue to cause significant economic impacts on workers and on businesses, hence, Government’s move to make the funds available to businesses.

With payments set to be paid in batches due to the volume, the breakdown of funds are as follows, based on a percentage of losses in the businesses, the Premier said.

For security reasons, the businesses receiving grants will not be named; however, Director for Trade, Karia J. Christopher noted that businesses will be contacted to uplift their cheques.

District Grants approved

District 1: 68 Businesses - $399,219
District 2: 102 Business - $598, 140
District 3: 91 Businesses - $548,825
DIstrcit 4: 280 Businesses - $1,665,565
District 5: 68 Businesses - $404,063
District 6: 113 Businesses - $644,273
District 7: 59 Businesses - $354,748
District 8: 90 Businesses - $518,600
District 9: 169 Businesses - $1,005,384

For security reasons, the businesses receiving the grants will not be named, the Premier said.

Director of Trade Karia J. Christopher noted that businesses will be contacted to uplift their cheques. She also said persons with missing information, including bank details, are to submit those to the department urgently because cheques will not be given if banking details are not confirmed.

Premier Fahie further added, “I urge our businesses to ensure that these funds are used to create a lasting impact and lasting benefit on your operations,” noting that the idea is to get money flowing in the economy once more.

10 food operators receiving UNDP grants

Businesses benefiting from the grant include security services, taxi operators on Tortola and Virgin Gorda, boat operators and other small businesses such as hoteliers and those working to secure the borders.

Some 1,423 businesses applied for grants.

Meanwhile, 10 additional MSMEs classified as food operators will receive $4,000 each as part of a $40,000 grant given by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with Government.

Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) speaking at the launch ceremony said COVID-19 has caused and continue to cause significant economic impacts on workers and on businesses, hence, Government’s move to make the funds available to businesses.