Project Overview: Startup Enterprises

The Belize Enterprise Empowerment Project (BEEP) provides access to financial resources and business leadership skills to 95 MSMEs in Belize. For the Startup category, we focus on businesses operating for less than three (3) years.

Startup Sub-Objectives:

  • To assist 22 Startup MSMEs to develop into innovative and growing enterprises that can compete in domestic, regional, and international markets.
  • To support Startups facing economic challenges due to high inflation and global economic disruptions.
  • To support Startups within the blue, green, and orange economy.

Main Benefits

Free Training

Customized business training to develop business models, investment plans, and cash flow statements.

Personal Advising

BELTRAIDE will assign an advisor to shortlisted applicants to guide them through the process.

Startup Grant

A non-reimbursable $5,000 BZD grant for 22 selected Start-Up Businesses.

Apply Now

Eligibility Criteria

Target: Startup Enterprises

Operating for less than 3 years, in early stages of growth, with an innovative model and potential to scale.

Core Requirements

  • 100% Belizean Owned.
  • Applicant is 18 years or older.
  • Operating less than 3 years.
  • Potential to scale production and manage demand.
  • Innovation or usage of technology.
  • Environmental and social sustainability.
  • Financial need is a key consideration.

Eligible Sectors

  • Aquaculture / Agriculture / Agro-Processing
  • Tourism / Cultural & Heritage Tourism
  • Renewable Energy
  • BPOs / IT and Communication Services
  • Light Manufacturing
  • Creative Industry: Music, Arts, Crafts, Film, Design, Literature.

Ineligible Businesses

The following business types are not eligible for funding:

• Bakers / Fast Food • Nail Techs / Salons • Boutiques / Thrift Stores • Grocery / Retail Shops • Massage / Barber Shops • Courier / Taxi / Transport • Bars / Night Clubs • Real Estate / Construction • Casinos / Gaming • Amazon / Shein Resellers • Vehicle Dealers • Medical / Pharmacies • Pawn / Printing Shops • Gyms / Pet Grooming

Funding Usage

What CAN BE Funded

  • Working Capital: Raw materials, product expansion.
  • Assets: Machines, equipment, and IT tools.
  • Prototypes: Materials, market validation, MVPs.
  • Marketing: Branding, design, packaging, promotion.
  • Infrastructure: Development of business spaces.

What CANNOT Be Funded

  • Expenses incurred before approval.
  • Payment of debts and taxes.
  • Salaries for team members or staff.
  • Purchase of shares or financial investments.
  • Assets not directly related to the business.
  • Personal expenses.
Start Your Application Now

Application Deadline: April 5, 2026