By Caribbean Export
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) and RevUP Caribbean Limited (RevUP) have formalised a strategic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), aimed at advancing entrepreneurship, innovation, and private sector development across the Caribbean.
The MOU was signed during the Caribbean Women Generating Resilient and Inclusive Trade (GRIT) Project activation week in Jamaica, marking a significant step towards strengthening support systems for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), particularly those led by women and youth.
Caribbean Export, the regional trade and investment promotion agency of CARIFORUM, and RevUP, a leading virtual business incubator, share a common vision of fostering a more resilient, competitive, and inclusive Caribbean private sector.
Through this partnership, both organisations will collaborate to expand access to finance, build entrepreneurial capacity, and strengthen market linkages for businesses across the region. Key areas of cooperation include startup support programmes, capacity building and technical assistance, investor engagement, innovation challenges, and export readiness initiatives.
“This partnership with RevUP Caribbean represents a strategic alignment of efforts to support the growth of innovation-driven enterprises in the region,” said Dr Damie Sinanan, executive director of Caribbean Export. “By combining our networks, expertise, and platforms, we can create stronger pathways for Caribbean entrepreneurs to access financing, scale their businesses, and compete globally.”
RevUP Caribbean, known for its immersive incubator programmes and focus on early-stage ventures, will work alongside Caribbean Export to identify and support high-potential startups, facilitate connections with investors, and deliver targeted training and mentorship opportunities.
“We are excited to partner with Caribbean Export to deepen our impact across the region,” said Sandra A. C. Glasgow, managing director of RevUP Caribbean. “This collaboration will help accelerate the growth of startups and MSMEs by connecting them to the resources, networks, and capital they need to thrive.”
The MOU also provides a framework for joint initiatives such as pitch competitions, accelerator programmes, investor forums, and cross-border partnerships, all aimed at catalysing sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to building a dynamic startup ecosystem in the Caribbean – one that empowers entrepreneurs, drives innovation, and unlocks new opportunities for regional and international market access.
The agreement will remain in effect for an initial period of two years, with opportunities for expansion through jointly developed programmes and initiatives.