Applications have opened for the Vilunveshi Grant, a financial assistance programme introduced to support food security and encourage environmentally sustainable innovations.
The grant is a financial assistance programme designed for individuals as well as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Under the programme, projects that benefit communities and are implemented in a sustainable manner are eligible for financial assistance of up to USD 6,485.
The programme has been established to support innovative ideas and digital solutions while creating opportunities to generate income through environmentally sustainable initiatives. It is being implemented jointly by SME Digital and the Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources.
The primary objective of the grant is to support efforts to strengthen food security in the Maldives and facilitate innovative solutions that help reduce environmental harm. The programme also reflects the Government's emphasis on promoting local food production and environmentally sustainable practices, particularly in a country with a fragile environment such as the Maldives.
Projects submitted under the grant must focus on environmental protection and deliver long-term benefits to communities. Interested applicants can submit proposals through the SME Portal in accordance with the programme guidelines.
The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy officially launched the Vilunveshi Grant Programme on 23 June this year.
The Government of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has been undertaking a range of initiatives to increase the participation of individuals and small businesses in the country's economic and social development. The Government describes the Vilunveshi Grant as an important step towards achieving that objective.