Up to $250,000 in catalytic funding and one year of incubation support are now available for Virgin Islands entrepreneurs developing innovative businesses and solutions focused on protecting and regenerating ocean health while strengthening the local economy.
The announcement was made on June 9, 2026, by VI Fund Manager Lauren Keil during an interview on Morning Facts Live with host Cindy Rosan.
The increased funding allocation reflects growing confidence in locally driven enterprises that tackle environmental challenges while creating sustainable economic opportunities throughout the Territory.
“The response so far has been encouraging, but we know there are many more entrepreneurs across the Virgin Islands working on ideas and businesses that align perfectly with this opportunity,” said Lauren Keil, Programme Manager for the VI Purpose Fund. “If you are developing solutions related to sargassum management, sustainable fisheries, aquaponics, waste reduction, plastic alternatives, or ocean restoration, now is the time to apply.”
Entrepreneurs across the Virgin Islands are being reminded that the application deadline is tomorrow, June 10, 2026, and are encouraged to seize the opportunity before submissions close.
The 2026 Impact Challenge is specifically designed for ventures that have advanced beyond the concept stage and are already demonstrating early traction, measurable impact, and commercial viability.
Priority areas for funding include:
- Sargassum-to-value and waste-to-resource solutions
- Sustainable fisheries and regenerative aquaculture
- Aquaponics and ocean-linked food sovereignty
- Plastic alternatives, recycling, reuse, and circular economy models
- Coastal and marine restoration initiatives
- Local manufacturing solutions that reduce import dependence and carbon emissions
In addition to funding, selected participants will receive one year of incubation and acceleration support aimed at helping entrepreneurs transform promising ideas into scalable businesses with long-term environmental and economic impact.
Applicants must be 18 years or older to apply. Non-profit organisations operating under a social enterprise model are also eligible for consideration.
Applications can be submitted online by visiting: www.vipurposefund.org