3rd Annual Phillip Nassief Entrepreneurship Challenge

The GEMS Foundation today proudly launched the 3rd Annual Phillip Nassief Entrepreneurship Challenge, continuing its mission of empowering Dominica’s entrepreneurs to strengthen and grow their businesses within the hospitality and tourism supply chain.

In just two years, the Challenge has awarded EC $90,000 to six entrepreneurs, fueling growth that has translated into enhanced operations, increased revenues, and improved efficiency for winning businesses. The impact has gone even further as shortlisted applicants have also benefited from mentorship that have sharpened their business strategies and boosted their long-term sustainability.

This year, the Challenge once again invites applications from businesses within the hospitality and tourism supply chain including food and beverage, agro-processing, wellness, entertainment, transport, technology, safety, marketing, and energy efficiency services. Three winners will share EC $45,000 in grant awards:

• 1st Place – EC $20,000
• 2nd Place – EC $15,000
• 3rd Place – EC $10,000

Director of Entrepreneurship for the GEMS Foundation, Lizra Fabien shared “This initiative is not only about funding, but also about celebrating resilience, innovation, and determination among Dominican businesses. Their success stories are a testament to the Challenge’s role in building stronger enterprises that contribute to the country’s economy. We encourage all suitable businesses to apply to participate in this transformative experience.”

Applications open September 1, 2025 and close September 30, 2025. Seven finalists will be shortlisted for the Ultimate Pitching Event on November 26, 2025, where winners will be announced live.

The GEMS Foundation encourages all suitable and innovative Dominican businesses to apply and seize this chance to receive both financial support and valuable mentorship. Apply today at www.gems.dm/foundation or send applications to foundation@gems.dm.

To support the application of all interested entrepreneurs, an information session will be hosted on Monday, September 8 at 7:00 PM via Zoom. Follow @gemsfoundation on Facebook for details on this event and other updates.

This initiative is supported by the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce (DAIC), whose partnership strengthens the Foundation’s mission to empower local entrepreneurs and enhance Dominica’s business ecosystem.