A $10 Million Grant for Belize

Belize will receive a grant of US$5,194,000 to launch the eleventh cycle of the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF), a flagship regional initiative aimed at tackling poverty and improving living conditions for vulnerable communities.

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) approved the funding during its 310th Board of Directors meeting on June 9 and formally communicated its decision to the Government of Belize on July 9. The new phase will be implemented by the Belize Social Investment Fund (BSIF) with oversight from the Ministry of Economic Transformation.

The BNTF 11 Programme will target low-income and underserved communities across the country, prioritising sustainable upgrades to basic infrastructure and livelihood opportunities. Areas of focus include quality education and training, improved water and sanitation systems, better community access and drainage, livelihood enhancement, and human resource development services.

Implementation will be guided by strong safeguards for transparency, environmental protection, and social responsibility, along with robust monitoring and evaluation to ensure accountability. BSIF, as the executing agency, will work alongside other national partners to roll out the projects efficiently.

“This significant investment in our communities underscores the Government of Belize’s continued commitment to inclusive and sustainable development,” the Ministry said in its announcement. “With the support of the CDB, GOB is targeting those most in need to ensure equitable access to basic services and uplift the quality of life for all Belizeans.”