Governor’s Office extends Future Fund application deadline

The Governor’s Office has extended the deadline for applications to the Future Fund until October 11.

Established by the UK government, the fund aims to promote youth empowerment and good governance, offering a total of $50,000 in grants.

The Future Fund includes two types of grants: one for youth empowerment and another for good governance. The youth empowerment grant programme is open to registered Virgin Islands non-profit organisations. These organisations or partnerships can apply for funding to help local youths develop new skills and create pathways to future employment. Projects should aim to provide positive experiences and skill development in sectors relevant to the BVI’s sustainable development, economic growth, and overall well-being, such as tourism, the environment, agriculture, and sports. The target age for these activities is 13 to 21 years old.

The good governance grant programme also invites applications from registered local non-profit organisations, schools, and community groups to promote political accountability and good governance.

These projects can receive funding of up to $10,000.

“Projects should help more local youths have positive experiences and develop new skills that encourage them to explore job opportunities in sectors relevant to the BVI’s sustainable development and economic growth,” the Governor’s Office stated.

Applications should be sent to [email protected].

In 2023, the grant was awarded to three recipients for a total of $30,000. This year’s notable increase of $20,000 indicates room for additional applicants.

The 2023 recipients included Mentoring Anointed Leaders Everywhere (MALE), which plans to conduct a series of intensive mental health workshops for young men. The Road Town Boys and Girls Brigade will use its funding to revitalise its programmes, while the third grant recipient, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC), will organise film development workshops.