The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved a US$10 million line of credit to improve access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Trinidad and Tobago. The financing was endorsed during the Bank’s 313th Board meeting held in Barbados on March 26, 2026, and forms part of the Fourth Agricultural and Industrial Line of Credit extended to Development Finance Limited (DFL).
The package includes a US$10 million loan from CDB’s Ordinary Capital Resources along with a grant of US$126,000. The initiative is designed not only to ease financial constraints faced by SMEs but also to strengthen institutional capacity and support sustainable, inclusive economic growth in the country.
Under the programme, DFL will channel the funds to businesses operating in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and energy efficiency. By addressing long-standing financing gaps, the initiative is expected to enhance competitiveness, support business expansion, and generate employment opportunities.
In addition to financial support, the grant component will be used to strengthen DFL’s internal systems. This includes training in environmental and social management, as well as the development and implementation of a Gender Equality Policy and Action Plan. These measures aim to improve the institution’s ability to manage environmental and social risks while promoting gender-responsive lending practices.
CDB officials highlighted that the initiative aligns with the Bank’s long-term strategy to promote private sector development, climate resilience, and inclusive growth. The programme is also expected to provide targeted support to women-owned businesses and enterprises engaged in sustainable investments.
The approval comes at a time when Trinidad and Tobago is working to diversify its economy beyond the energy sector. With growing demand for financing in non-energy industries, the project is expected to play a catalytic role in strengthening the private sector and enhancing economic resilience.
Development Finance Limited, which has demonstrated strong financial performance and governance, will oversee project implementation, while CDB will provide monitoring and evaluation support. Through this intervention, the Bank continues its efforts to strengthen financial systems, support entrepreneurship, and improve livelihoods across the Caribbean region.
