Informational session will connect U.S. Virgin Islands farmers and fishers with financing guidance and application support
The Virgin Islands Agriculture Business Center (VIABC) at the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI), in partnership with the Research and Technology Park (RTPark) Community Impact Fund, will host a free webinar on May 6, 2026, at 6 p.m. to introduce the new Farmers & Fishers Program and help participants better understand available financing opportunities for agriculture and fisheries businesses across the territory.
The webinar is designed for farmers and fishers throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands who are interested in strengthening their operations, growing their businesses, and improving access to capital. Participants will receive an overview of program eligibility, the application process and required documentation, key benefits of the grant and loan offerings, and practical tips for preparing a competitive application.
During the session, Pat Morris, executive director of the Community Impact Fund, will share the vision behind the fund and its mission to create meaningful opportunities within the agriculture and fisheries sectors. Akem Durand, senior loan officer, will guide attendees through a streamlined application process designed to reduce common barriers and support the development of strong loan packages.
Whether participants are currently operating in agriculture or fisheries or are seeking to expand their ventures, the webinar will provide actionable guidance and direct access to valuable resources. A live question-and-answer session will follow the presentation, offering attendees an opportunity to receive real-time feedback and clarification.
A joint program by the RTPark Community Impact Fund and the Virgin Islands Agriculture Business Center at UVI, the Farmers & Fishers Program is designed to provide accessible loan capital to agricultural and fishing businesses across the territory.
“This partnership reflects our strong commitment to expanding access to financing opportunities while equipping farmers and fishers with the knowledge and resources they need to build resilient and sustainable businesses,” said Shay Roberts, director of the Virgin Islands Agriculture Business Center.
Those interested in attending are encouraged to register in advance. For more information, visit www.myviabc.org/webinars, email RebekahHughston@cifvi.org, or call (340) 249-0720.
Media Contact:
Tamika Thomas Williams
Director of Public Relations
University of the Virgin Islands
Email: pr@uvi.edu
Phone: (340) 693-1059
The University of the Virgin Islands is a public, historically Black, land-grant institution dedicated to student success, research, and community engagement in the U.S. Virgin Islands and beyond. With campuses on St. Thomas and St. Croix, UVI offers a range of academic programs while advancing innovation and solutions that address the needs of island and global communities.
