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How do I apply for a Visitor Experience Development Grant?
You can apply for a Visitor Experience Development Grant by going to the official VEDGP webpage
www.ourcayman.ky/VEDGPThe entire application process is online, and you will be required to complete an online application together with uploading other supporting documentation. You should use the guidance notes and supporting document templates available on the official webpage.
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What are the criteria required to qualify for a Visitor Experience Development Grant?
To qualify for a Visitor Experience Development Grant a business must meet the following criteria:
- Business must be 100% Caymanian-owned - all owners AND employees must be Caymanian as per the Immigration (Transition) Act (2022 Revision).
- Businesses must offer or introduce new experiences (products/services) to international visitors that are not currently available in the Cayman Islands
The full criteria for the Visitor Experience Development Grant are provided on the webpage.
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What is the deadline for the submission of application form?
The application periods for the programme occur twice annually, giving applicants two opportunities each year to submit their application.
For 2024, the application period is 2 September to 30 September. Applicants should submit their application no later than the 30 September deadline.
If you miss the first application period or prefer to apply in 2025, a second application period will be available from 1 February to 15 March 2025. Like the first period’s process, you will need to ensure that all your materials are ready and submitted no later than the 15 March deadline.
These defined application periods ensures that your application will receive the appropriate amount of time to be evaluated, following the application deadline.
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How much is the Visitor Experience Development Grant award?
An individual who is awarded a Visitor Experience Development Grant can receive a maximum of CI$50,000. The total approved budget for the VEDGP is CI$500,000.
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What types of initiatives can be funded through this Grant?
The Grant supports development of new tourism attractions or experiences proposed by emerging Caymanian entrepreneurs. The Grant cannot be used to expand or fund an existing business.
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What is the evaluation process?
Applications will be reviewed by distinct panels of experts who will evaluate the applications based on criteria such as:
- Innovation and uniqueness of the business concept.
- Potential impact on local tourism and the economy.
- Feasibility and viability of the business concept.
- Alignment with the Ministry of Tourism and Ports’ strategic direction.
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When would I know if I am approved for the Visitor Experience Development Grant?
Applicants will be informed of decisions within 30 days of the deadline date (in each application period).
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How are disbursements to be paid out to successful applicants?
Disbursements are to be paid out to successful applicants over three months and in at least two installments.
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Can I apply for more than one business concept?
No, applicants cannot submit multiple applications.
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Are there any agreements or reporting requirements if I receive the grant?
Yes, successful applicants will be required to submit regular invoices and expense reports in stages, as requested. These invoices and expense reports must detail how the funds were used and adhere to the approved expense categories and limits. Additionally, approved applicants must sign the established MOTP funding agreement(s).
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What happens if my application is unsuccessful?
If your application is unsuccessful, you may request in writing to receive feedback on your proposal to help improve it for future grant opportunities. You are encouraged to apply again in future application periods if your project remains eligible.
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Who can I contact for more information?
For specific questions, you can contact the Ministry of Tourism and Ports administration office via email
MOT-requests@gov.ky. The contact process and details are also available on the official VEDGP website.
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I am a Civil Servant; can I apply for the VEDGP?
Yes. Civil Servants who are not employed by the Ministry of Tourism and Ports, or its related entities can apply for the grant.
Family members of Civil Servants employed by the Ministry of Tourism and Ports, or its related entities can also apply, but as per the Anti-Corruption Act (2024 Revision) Section 19 (2) where a public officer has a member of their family or a direct associate or a personal interest in a decision that a Government entity, in this case the Ministry of Tourism and Ports, is going to take, that the public officer disclose in writing the nature of that personal interest and recuse themselves from any part in the proceedings or decision to award the grant.
Failure to disclose an interest in accordance with the Anti-Corruption Act and who votes or otherwise takes part in proceedings or decisions of the government entity relating to such interest commits an offence and is liable on conviction on indictment to imprisonment for a term of five years.
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I own an existing tourism business; can I apply for VEDGP?
No. The VEDGP is solely for Caymanians who do not already operate any established businesses.