A groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs in the Caribbean was unveiled on November 6, 2025, in Dominica. The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export), in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada (GAC), introduced GRIT – Caribbean Women Entrepreneurs Generating Resilient and Inclusive Trade. The launch event took place at Barana Aute in the Kalinago Territory, marking a significant step toward reshaping the region’s economic landscape. GRIT focuses on supporting women-led businesses by addressing trade barriers, fostering green transition, promoting digital innovation, and expanding market access. The initiative aligns with broader goals of inclusive development and economic resilience. The event brought together key stakeholders, including government officials from Dominica and Canada, representatives from the Dominica Export Import Agency (DEXIA), and women entrepreneurs from across the island. Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, emphasized the transformative potential of GRIT, stating, ‘This initiative is not just about empowering women; it’s about shaping the future of Caribbean trade, where businesses, especially MSMEs, can thrive in global markets.’ High Commissioner Brenda Wills of Canada to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean reiterated Canada’s commitment to gender equality and inclusive growth, highlighting trade as a catalyst for equitable economic opportunities. Chief Anette Thomas Sanford of the Kalinago Territory underscored the importance of empowering indigenous and female entrepreneurs in driving local development. Paula Platsko, General Manager of DEXIA, emphasized the role of collaboration in enhancing trade prospects for women across the region. Funded with CAD $3.16 million from the Canadian government, GRIT is a four-year program designed to increase women’s participation in export markets, particularly to Canada, by providing resources, training, and business linkages in Dominica, Belize, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Hon. Cozier Frederick, Minister for Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment, delivered the keynote speech, celebrating the resilience and contributions of Kalinago women to Dominica’s development. The event also featured a Fireside Chat with Dominican entrepreneurs Lana Athanaze and Natasha Green, who shared insights into the challenges and triumphs of women in the creative sector. Caribbean Export highlighted GRIT as a pivotal step toward achieving inclusive and sustainable trade in the region.
Caribbean Export and Canada promote fair trade through GRIT initiative launch in Dominica
