Kingstown St. Vincent -The Beryl Emergency Resilient Recovery (BERRY) Project has launched its second round of support for micro‑ and small‑business owners in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, offering hope to those still rebuilding after Hurricane Beryl.
Communications Specialist Ari Shaw explained that the initiative provides cash grants ranging from US $1,000 to $3,000, along with mandatory two‑day training sessions designed to strengthen business skills. The support is aimed at businesses earning less than $20,000 a year, employing no more than five people, and active between January and July 2024.
Application forms are available at the Financial Complex and the Central Planning Division’s Office, where a Project Officer is on hand daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to guide applicants. Shaw noted that while online forms are not yet available, the process is designed to be accessible, with staff ready to answer questions. Applications close on April 30th 2026 , though extensions may be considered.
Beyond grants, the BERRY Project is also investing in infrastructure, with plans to replace temporary Bailey bridges in Noel and Overland with permanent structures. These efforts reflect the project’s broader mission of building resilience and supporting communities affected by the hurricane.
The BERRY Project, funded by the World Bank through an International Development Association credit of US $63 million, became effective in November 2024 and was officially launched in July 2025. Its focus remains clear: helping Vincentians recover, rebuild, and strengthen their livelihoods in the wake of disaster.
Updated: This article was updated to correct the perception that the entire $63 million is available to small businesses.