The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) has officially commenced its Virtual E-Commerce Accelerator Programme (VEAP), with over 200 participants expected to take part in the initiative. VEAP is aimed at strengthening the e-commerce capabilities of Caribbean businesses and expanding their access to international markets.
The programme is designed to equip Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) across CARIFORUM with the practical knowledge, tools and support needed to establish and grow their online businesses, particularly through e-commerce platforms such as Shopify and eBay.
The launch follows a regional application campaign that attracted registrations from all 15 CARIFORUM Member States. Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica recorded the highest numbers of registered participants, followed by Grenada, Saint Lucia, Barbados and Belize, reflecting interest among Caribbean entrepreneurs in using digital platforms to expand their market reach.
Jonathan Seecharan, Innovation & Digital Business Officer with Caribbean Export, highlighted the importance of helping regional businesses translate e-commerce knowledge into practical results.
“For many Caribbean small businesses, the challenge is not simply understanding the potential of e-commerce but knowing how to put it into practice. Through VEAP, we want to give entrepreneurs the skills, tools and confidence to establish their online stores, reach new customers and explore opportunities beyond their domestic markets. Our focus is on helping businesses move from learning about e-commerce to actually doing business online”.
VEAP is part of the European Union-funded Regional Private Sector Development Programme III (RPSDP III) under the Global Gateway Programme currently being implemented by Caribbean Export. The programme aims to sustainably strengthen the competitiveness and resilience of the Caribbean private sector by addressing critical challenges and supporting growth in key areas, including digital transition.
The first virtual session, held on October 15, introduced participants to the programme and outlined what they can expect over the coming weeks.
The session was facilitated by Fabian Staechelin, International E-Commerce Expert with Nextrade Group, a US-based consultancy firm supporting the implementation of VEAP. It featured success stories from Caribbean businesses that had previously worked with the consultancy to establish online stores on Shopify and eBay, providing participants with practical examples of how e-commerce can support business growth.
The session also explored the types of businesses and products best suited to e-commerce, helping participants better understand the opportunities and considerations involved in selling through online platforms.
VEAP will be delivered in two stages, beginning with an eight-week foundational training programme. During this initial stage, participants will develop essential e-commerce knowledge and skills, including digital marketing, online sales, cross-border payments, logistics and other considerations involved in reaching customers beyond their domestic markets.
Beginning in January 2027, the programme will continue with a 16-week Online Store Launch Bootcamp, delivered in two cohorts. This stage will provide more intensive, practical support as participating businesses work towards launching and strengthening their online stores.
For Caribbean businesses operating in relatively small domestic markets, e-commerce offers an important pathway to reaching new customers, overcoming geographic barriers and participating more actively in regional and international trade.
Through VEAP, Caribbean Export continues its efforts to support the digital transformation of the region's private sector, helping MSMEs strengthen their competitiveness and take advantage of opportunities in the digital economy.