The Caribbean Export Development Agency has officially joined the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) as an International Network Partner, marking a significant step in deepening commercial and innovation links between the Caribbean and Europe. The partnership opens new avenues for businesses on both sides to access partnerships, market intelligence and investment opportunities.
The milestone was formalised during the Enterprise Europe Network Annual Conference 2025, held from 26–28 November in Aalborg, Denmark. Caribbean Export used the forum to engage with EEN partners and global stakeholders, laying the groundwork for collaborations designed to deliver tangible outcomes for Caribbean and European enterprises.
The Enterprise Europe Network is recognised as the world’s largest support network for small and medium-sized enterprises with international ambitions. It connects companies to expert business support organisations that help firms innovate, scale and expand into new markets.
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Strengthening the Caribbean–Europe business bridge
As the regional trade and investment promotion agency for the 15 CARIFORUM member states, Caribbean Export’s participation in the EEN is aimed at enhancing support for Caribbean SMEs and startups seeking to enter or expand in European markets. At the same time, it provides European firms with a more structured and reliable pathway into the Caribbean.
European companies will gain access to vetted Caribbean partners, suppliers and investment opportunities, particularly in high-growth sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable tourism, agribusiness and the digital economy. Through tailored partner searches, sector insights and facilitated business-to-business engagements, the partnership is expected to reduce risk and accelerate the development of long-term commercial relationships.
Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, who attended the conference alongside Wayne Elliott, Manager of Technical Programmes, said the focus is on turning engagement into impact.
“This partnership brings Caribbean firms closer to European buyers, investors and innovation partners. Through the Enterprise Europe Network, we can fast-track business matchmaking, strengthen export readiness and unlock collaborations that help Caribbean companies compete globally,” Sinanan said.
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What EEN membership delivers for Caribbean businesses
By joining the Enterprise Europe Network, Caribbean Export gains access to a comprehensive platform that supports firms throughout their internationalisation journey. For Caribbean companies, this means improved access to:
- Business matchmaking and partner searches linking firms with European buyers, distributors and technology partners
- Market intelligence and advisory services to navigate EU regulations, standards and market entry requirements
- Practical support to leverage the EU–CARIFORUM Economic Partnership Agreement through stronger export strategies
- Guidance on innovation, sustainability and digitalisation to boost competitiveness
- Investment promotion channels that position the Caribbean as an attractive destination for European capital
Delivering services across the region
Caribbean Export will roll out EEN services using a hub-and-spoke model, coordinating regionally while working with national business support organisations, chambers of commerce and sector partners to reach firms across all CARIFORUM states.
The Agency will assist Caribbean businesses in developing partnership profiles for EEN platforms and will collaborate on trade missions, sector events and B2B engagements aligned with regional priorities such as agri-food, renewable energy and digital transformation. On the European side, Caribbean Export will work closely with EEN partners to share market intelligence and support companies looking to establish or expand operations in the Caribbean.
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Driving growth, resilience and global integration
As SMEs face rising costs, evolving regulations and rapid technological change, stronger international linkages are becoming critical. Caribbean Export’s integration into the Enterprise Europe Network is expected to boost exports, attract quality investment and foster innovation partnerships that support sustainable growth.
Beyond trade and investment, the collaboration aims to strengthen SME resilience—particularly for women- and youth-led businesses and firms in smaller territories—while offering European partners opportunities to diversify sourcing and engage with dynamic emerging markets.
At its core, the partnership seeks to embed Caribbean enterprises more firmly into global value chains, supporting job creation, skills development and a more resilient and sustainable regional economy.
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