Sustainable tourism entrepreneurs receive $1.177 Million grant funding

By William Ysaguirre (Freelance Writer)

BELIZE CITY, Thurs. June 25, 2026
The first cohort of 39 tourism entrepreneurs, who are participating in the Sustainable and Inclusive Belize (SAIB) program, collectively received $1,177,138.00 in funding to drive sustainable innovation across Belize’s tourism sector at an awards ceremony hosted by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Youth, Sports and Diaspora Relations at the Best Western Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City on Thursday afternoon, June 25.
The 39 awardees of this first cohort received up to BZD $30,000 per business, as they have completed an ongoing, multi-phase program. A second call for applications is also coming soon, as additional cohorts will follow the SAIB program which will offer a total of 150 grants over the next 2 years. Other participants currently in the program’s pipeline continue to receive technical assistance, and grant disbursements continue, ensuring that more Belizean tourism medium, small and micro enterprises (MSMEs) may access this vital support.
The first 39 awardees are a diverse cross section of the tourism sector and communities, as 13 of the enterprises are led by women, and 4 are headed by indigenous persons. The program is having a nationwide impact, as they hail from all 6 districts: 2 from Corozal, 3 from Orange Walk, 11 from Belize District, 6 from Cayo, 10 from Stann Creek, and 7 from Toledo.
The program is designed to empower Belizean MSMEs. The grants go to fund projects such as solar-powered infrastructure, sustainable water management, and enhancing culinary experience of traditional dishes which highlight local ingredients. As final contracts are signed, the awardees are already receiving support; 3 have already received their first disbursement to start their project.
The SAIB team has begun visiting the projects in situ for the entrepreneurs to answer environmental and social questionnaires, to ensure that all projects align with the program’s sustainability goals. “This program is about more than just funding; it’s about building a sustainable and inclusive future for Belizean tourism,” BTB director Evan Tillett said.
Chief executive officer Nicole Usher of the Ministry of Tourism also attended the awards along with a representative of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), a key partner with SAIB. Project coordinator Denmar Villar of the SAIB Tourism component delivered the closing remarks.