Ministry Relaunches Visitor Experience Development Grant Programme

Applications for the Ministry of Tourism and Trade Development's Visitor Experience Development Grant (VEDG) Programme will reopen on March 23rd, for its third iteration, continuing the Government's commitment to supporting Caymanian entrepreneurs and strengthening 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.

Minister for Tourism and Trade Development, the Hon. Gary Rutty, said the relaunch reflects Government's ongoing efforts to ensure that Caymanians play 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. 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 startup 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

The Ministry encourages Caymanians with innovative ideas that can enhance the destination's tourism offerings to take advantage of this opportunity and apply before the deadline.