Antigua and Barbuda groups can now apply for grants to fight plastic pollution. The programme supports community action across the Caribbean.

Meanwhile, organisers launched a new funding call under a regional initiative. It focuses on reducing plastic waste and building circular economy solutions.

The Sustainable Small Grants Programme leads this effort. It operates under the “Closing the Caribbean Plastic Tap” initiative. Therefore, it aims to cut plastic pollution at the source.

In addition, the programme covers five Eastern Caribbean countries. These include Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Saint Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Moreover, the initiative targets community organisations and small businesses. It also welcomes NGOs, cooperatives, associations, schools, and informal groups.

As a result, many local applicants can take part. Groups must show community involvement to qualify.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature runs the programme. Its regional office for Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean manages it.

In addition, Italian development agencies fund the initiative. These include the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation and the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Furthermore, the programme offers a total of 400,000 euros. Each country can receive up to 80,000 euros.

Meanwhile, grants range from 30,000 to 80,000 euros per project. Therefore, both small and larger projects can receive support.

The programme supports practical solutions. It focuses on waste reduction, reuse, and recycling. It also promotes sustainable materials.

In addition, it encourages projects that prevent plastic waste. Communities can also test new recycling methods.

Projects must show clear results. They must also align with global environmental goals.

For example, they should support the Sustainable Development Goals. They should also match the Global Biodiversity Framework.

Applications remain open now. Groups must submit proposals by May 31, 2026. The deadline falls at 11:59 PM AST.

Overall, the programme strengthens local environmental action. It also helps Caribbean communities tackle plastic pollution more effectively. More information can be found here: Sustainable Small Grants Programme – Closing the Caribbean Plastic Tap