DIGITAL INNOVATION
CLUSTER CHALLENGE
A Call for Proposals to strengthen digital services and boost economic development in Belize.
SUBMIT YOUR PROPOSALOur Vision & Context
Driving Digital Adoption
The Government of Belize, through the IDB-funded program, aims to incentivize Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to adopt modern digital tools.
The Digital Gap
Innovation with digital technologies is limited in Belize. Only 10% of firms use digital payment methods compared to the regional average of 28%. We need transformation.
Strengthening DSPs
This challenge focuses on supporting Digital Services Providers (DSPs) through collaborative capacity building to better serve MSMEs.
The Power of Clustering
A Digital Innovation Cluster is a group of interconnected Digital Service Providers (DSPs) and supporting organizations operating near each other that collaborate and compete to expand current markets.
Why Cluster?
- • Access new markets and attract new clients.
- • Share costs and achieve business development/branding collectively.
- • Foster collaborative R&D to drive long-term innovation.
- • Strengthen government support and workforce development.
The Critical Skills Gap
Consultations with Belizean DSPs identified specific, high-priority areas for capacity building. Proposals must address these needs to build a strong human capital foundation.
Technical Skills
Software Development (Python, Java), Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing (AWS, Azure), CRM.
Data & Machine Learning
Data Analytics (SQL, Visualization Tools), Machine Learning (ML), and specific accreditations.
Marketing & Soft Skills
Google Analytics/Facebook Ads, Critical Thinking, Project Management, Client Service, and Collaboration.
Funding & Contribution
BZ$100,000
MAXIMUM GRANT FUNDING
Non-reimbursable technical assistance.
80%
MAXIMUM PROJECT COVERAGE
Grant will cover up to 80% of total project budget.
20%
MINIMUM COUNTERPART CONTRIBUTION
Can be financial (cash) or in-kind (staff time, office space).
Note: Funds are not directly transferred. Technical assistance will be procured on behalf of the cluster by the Central Executing Unit in collaboration with BELTRAIDE.
Eligibility Requirements
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Cluster Size: Minimum of three entities in the cluster.
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Core Members: A minimum of two (2) Belizean-based and registered Digital Service Providers (DSPs) must be beneficiaries.
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Lead Entity: Must be a formally registered, Belizean-based DSP and must provide proof of legal incorporation.
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Collaboration: Highly encouraged to include non-DSP Belizean entities (academia, NGOs, BSOs, government agencies).
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be reviewed competitively by an independent Investment Panel based on the following weighted criteria:
Project Feasibility
~40%Clarity of identified skills gaps, relevance to MSME digital service provision, resource capacity to sustain changes, and commitment from private firms.
Innovative
~20%The extent to which the project provides innovative solutions to the skills gap, including considerations for gender, diversity, climate change, and sustainable development.
Impact
~20%The likelihood of measurable results, such as increased cluster profitability, employment generation, new markets, and effective delivery of services for MSMEs.
Sustainability
~20%The likelihood of the project’s results being sustained after BELTRAIDE support ends. Strong collaboration with academic/industry associations is favorable.
Key Dates & Schedule
May 20th, 2024
Challenge Launch
May 27th, 2024
Webinar for Q&A
June 10-14th, 2024
Technical Assistance to Develop Proposals
July 12th, 2024 (Midnight, Belize time)
PROPOSAL DEADLINE
August 5th, 2024
Target Announcement Date
Note: Dates are approximate and subject to revision.
Ineligible Activities & Disclaimers
BELTRAIDE does not provide grant funding for projects or companies involved in the production, trade, or use of products, substances or activities set forth in the list below. Submission of such content will lead to disqualification.
- • Weapons and ammunition.
- • Tobacco or Gambling/casinos.
- • Radioactive materials or un-caked asbestos fibers.
- • Pharmaceuticals, pesticides, or herbicides subject to international ban/phase-out.
- • Breach of fundamental principles of workers and rights at work (ILO).
- • Activities illegal according to the laws of Belize or international conventions.
Ready to Innovate?
Access the application form and submit your proposal to help build Belize's digital future.
DIGITAL INNOVATION CLUSTER CHALLENGE APPLICATION FORMFor more information, contact the Projects Department: