Belize Fund Awards Over BZ$643,000 to Strengthen Fisheries, Coastal Livelihoods and Blue Businesses
The Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future (Belize Fund) hosted its 4th Awards Ceremony today in Dangriga, announcing BZ$643,292.12 in new grant funding for four projects that will strengthen sustainable fisheries, support coastal livelihoods, and grow Belize’s blue economy.
The awards reflect the Belize Fund’s commitment to ensuring that long-term conservation financing delivers practical benefits for Belizean communities while helping to safeguard the country’s marine and coastal resources.
The newly approved projects are:
Barranco Botanics (BZ$43,296.92)
Expanding a coastal enterprise producing marine-based soaps using 100% Belizean ingredients, creating jobs and increasing demand for locally farmed seaweed.
Wabafu Fishermen Association (BZ$50,000.00)
Strengthening governance, financial management, and sustainable fishing practices to support stronger livelihoods for fishers.
Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association (BZ$500,000.00)
Advancing fisheries management through enforcement, education, and data-driven decision-making to promote sustainable resource use.
Yugadan Fisherfolks Association Limited (BZ$49,995.20)
Strengthening fisher livelihoods in Hopkins through skills training, organizational development, and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
“Sustainable financing is essential to ensuring Belize can continue protecting its globally significant marine ecosystems while supporting the people and communities who depend on them,” said Dr. Leandra Cho-Ricketts, Executive Director of the Belize Fund.
Since its establishment, the Belize Fund has continued to channel strategic financing into community organizations, fishers, and local enterprises projects that align with national conservation commitments and contribute to a resilient blue economy.