A new wave of entrepreneurial support is sweeping across the Caribbean as RevUP Caribbean Limited, in collaboration with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), launches the second phase of its flagship startup incubation programme — and this time, the ambitions are bolder, smarter, and laser-focused on economic transformation.
RevUP 2.0 is not a continuation — it’s a reinvention. With a two-year mandate, the programme sets out to elevate at least 60 early-stage ventures across the region through a potent mix of tactical business training, targeted mentorship, and improved access to regional and global funding pathways.
This phase comes with sharpened priorities: tech-enabled scaling, climate-conscious business models, and export-ready operational frameworks. But the heart of the initiative remains the same — equip Caribbean founders to build ventures that don’t just survive, but redefine what success looks like for MSMEs in emerging markets.
At the core of this new iteration is a strategic ecosystem:
- Regional Growth Enablers like the Caribbean Export Development Agency and the Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator are now embedded into the programme, ensuring participants benefit from export guidance and climate-forward best practices.
- Global Knowledge Exchanges via European incubator alliances deepen the playbook for Caribbean entrepreneurs, introducing frameworks that bridge the gap between local innovation and international scalability.
- Expanded Capital Access through angel investors, commercial banks, and VC firms — including FirstAngels Caribbean — adds critical financial muscle.
RevUP 2.0 also places intentional emphasis on building pipelines for high-potential segments: women-led businesses, green economy ventures, and founders working on digital-first solutions. This ensures the future Caribbean economy isn’t just growing — it’s inclusive, sustainable, and future-proof.
Start-ups accepted into the programme will gain structured support in four core areas:
- Strategic Mentorship from both regional leaders and international coaches
- Tailored Business Training focused on investment readiness and operational execution
- Smart Capital Access through curated pitch opportunities and funding introductions
- Networking & Exposure that plugs founders into growth corridors across LATAM, Europe, and North America
According to RevUP’s Chairman Harry “Tomi” Davies, this isn’t just about startups — it’s about shaping a generation of founders who will rewire Caribbean economies from the ground up. “This programme marks a strategic leap in how we build capacity in the region. We’re going beyond theory and into tactical execution — with support structures that are aligned with today’s realities.”
With execution at its core and partnerships spanning development banks, investor networks, and climate resilience agencies, RevUP 2.0 isn’t playing catch-up — it’s drawing a new playbook. For Caribbean entrepreneurs ready to scale with precision, this is the window — and the wind — they’ve been waiting for.
