Invest TCI Launches Fisheries Pilot to Strengthen the Local Fishing Industry

Invest Turks and Caicos has officially launched its Fisheries Pilot Programme, an initiative designed to transform local fishing from a subsistence activity into a sustainable, growth-oriented business sector.

The pilot supports 18 fisherfolk across the islands, providing each with funding of up to $50,000 to purchase vessels, engines, fishing gear, and other essential equipment. In addition to financial assistance, each participant receives business coaching and technical support to help them establish  recordkeeping systems and strengthen their financial management.

The programme, developed in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Environment, Fisheries, and Marine Affairs, was created in response to the increasing number of fishing-related applications under the MSME Programme. To address this surge and support the development of the sector, in FY 2024/2025 Cabinet approved $1 million in special funding dedicated specifically to commercial fishing activities.

The initiative officially kicked off in South Caicos on the 9th October 2025, where Invest TCI’s VP of SME Development, Alexa Cooper, and Business Advisor/Programme Manager, Lashena Simmons, joined by Director of Fisheries Mr. Ponteen and Dr. Alvarez, engaged participants in a roundtable discussion on progress, challenges, and next steps.

“This Fisheries Pilot is about helping our local fisherfolk move from survival to sustainability. Through our partnership with the Ministry, we are providing not only equipment and funding, but the business support needed to help them grow strong, viable enterprises. The island meetings ensure that participants remain supported and on track as the programme continues.” - Alexa Cooper, VP of SME Development, Invest Turks and Caicos. 

“I know firsthand how important this industry is to our future, not only environmentally, but in how it provides for local families and sustains entire communities. This Fisheries Pilot is about giving our fisherfolk the tools to operate more efficiently, earn more from their work, and build businesses that can last. Through this partnership with Invest Turks and Caicos, we are strengthening food security while ensuring the sector grows in a responsible and sustainable way.” - Hon. Zhavargo Jolly- Minister of Tourism, Environment, Fisheries and Marine Affairs.

Meetings will continue across the islands, with upcoming sessions planned for Grand Turk and Providenciales in February. Through this pilot, Invest TCI aims to build a model for future sectoral support, ensuring that local fisherfolk can operate more efficiently, profitably, and sustainably while contributing to national food security and economic resilience.