BELTRAIDE Partners with IICA to Foster Climate Resilience and Economic Sustainability in Belize

BELMOPAN, Belize, CMC—The Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) is involved in a project that aims to foster climate resilience and economic sustainability in communities across the country.

Partnership with the Cooperative Department and Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise (MAFSE)

As part of the Sustainable Livelihood Project, an initiative spearheaded by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), BELTRAIDE is collaborating with the Cooperative Department and MAFSE.

Funding and Support for Nature-Based Enterprises

As part of the second phase of the project, BELTRAIDE has been allocated BZD$744,500 (One Belize dollar = US$0.49 cent) to support the development of nature-based enterprises. This funding will equip five community groups with business development skills and technical assistance and expand market access for sustainable ventures.

Strengthening Climate Resilience and Sustainable Development

The initiative strengthens Belize’s national commitment to climate resilience and sustainable development, empowering communities that rely on natural resources for their livelihoods.

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Project Framework

BELTRAIDE’s executive director, Ishmael Quiroz, held talks with IICA’s Representative in Belize, Mauricio Guevara, focusing on finalizing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which will serve as the framework for BELTRAIDE’s contributions to the project.

Financing and Support from the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT)

This initiative receives financing from the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) through its Adaptation Fund Enhanced Direct Access funding window as part of the Building Community Resilience via Transformative Adaptation project, which supports initiatives to bolster Belize’s resilience against climate threats, such as droughts, water scarcity’s, floods, and wildfires.

Empowering Community Members and Strengthening Climate Resilience

BELTRAIDE will drive the development of five nature-based enterprises in key communities, ensuring local entrepreneurs are equipped with essential tools and knowledge to build resilient and profitable businesses while preserving Belize’s rich natural resources. Through targeted training and mentorship programs, BELTRAIDE will empower community members, including women and youth, enhancing their economic sustainability and strengthening their climate resilience.

Conclusion

This partnership with IICA, MAFSE, and the Cooperative Department is a significant step forward in promoting sustainable economic development in Belize. By supporting the development of climate-resilient businesses, we are not only enhancing the livelihoods of Belizeans but also contributing to the country’s long-term sustainability goals.

FAQs

* What is the purpose of the Sustainable Livelihood Project?
The project aims to foster climate resilience and economic sustainability in communities across Belize.
* Who is partnering on this project?
BELTRAIDE, the Cooperative Department, and MAFSE are partnering on this initiative.
* What is the funding allocated for nature-based enterprises?
BZD$744,500 (One Belize dollar = US$0.49 cent) has been allocated for the development of nature-based enterprises.
* What is the goal of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)?
The MOU will serve as the framework for BELTRAIDE’s contributions to the project.