Dominica: The Government of Dominica launched a digital transformation project on Monday that focused on distributing EC$986,342 to 77 local entrepreneurs for digitalisation of the country.
Minister of Public Works, Public Services and Digital Economy, Fidel Gran addressed the gathering and emphasized his belief that the nation is facing a lack of services from digital skills. He further noted that the grant will help promote the digital growth of companies and help them to establish more widely.
“Digital innovation support aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises in the adaptation of digital technologies and business models.” He noted.
The grant was already launched in December 2023 and was financed by the World Bank. According to the information, 125 applications were received for the digitization grant in Dominica, of which only 77 applications were granted. The amounts requested increased to three million, but the evaluation committee of the grant thoroughly handled each application and ordered the applicants to allocate the funds.
Minister Fidel Grant then emphasized that the government expects the grant to be used for things like website development, application development, software purchase, digital marketing and equipment.
“The world is your oyster, go out and make money, promote your business, but also your country.” added the minister.
Acting Prime Minister Cassani Laville stated during the event that Dominica is already a leader in digitization and this move aims to give it a sharp turn. He then spoke of Dominica’s population as its most effective resource for economic growth, noting that investing in them will lead to Dominica’s higher position in the global market through digitization.
According to sources, the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP) was financed by the World Bank. The project aims to ensure the empowerment of every individual and business in Dominica by providing access to basic digitalisation needs, including broadband, digital financial services and skills. It is also said to advance the public sector, creating a digitized Dominica.