Creative industries urged to apply to CDB fund

Creative industries across Barbados and the Caribbean region are being invited to apply to the Cultural and Creative Industries Innovative Fund (CIIF) being promoted by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

The Bank said that this is in order to gain more access to funding and develop their craft.

The funding, which is being offered under the “improving competitiveness of creative micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)” grant category of the CIIF, consists of two new grants offering up to US$50 000 (Bds$100 000) each in funding.

The CDB, in a recent release, said that it is now inviting grant proposals in this category and the projects should provide solutions or resources for a wide stakeholder base.

“The Fund is also inviting grant proposals for a digital platform to support the fashion, visual arts, and contemporary design and craft sectors in the region through e-commerce, access to resources and value chain integration,” the release stated.

The multi-donor fund, which was established in 2017, aims to provide support to the creative industries in the Caribbean. The funds are earmarked for innovative projects across the region, which support an enabling environment for the development of the creative industries and enhancing the technical capacity of creative entrepreneurs.

In promoting an extended deadline for February 28, the CDB is urging applicants to draft projects that demonstrate a significant measure of innovation, collaboration and sustainability.

Countries in the region have also taken steps to provide greater assistance to the sector.