VCCI rolls out recovery grants for earthquake-affected enterprises

October 9, 2025 10:16 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

The Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), in partnership with the New Zealand–funded Business Link Pacific (BLP) programme, has introduced a new grant initiative to support micro and small enterprises in Port Vila affected by the 2024 earthquake.

The initiative aims to assist with business recovery, rebuilding efforts, and long-term resilience within Vanuatu’s private sector. Through this programme, micro-sized businesses can apply for grants of up to NZD 3,000 (approximately VT215,760), while small-sized businesses are eligible for up to NZD 10,000 (approximately VT719,200).

Reflecting a strong commitment to inclusivity, the grant programme particularly encourages applications from women, youth, and underserved groups to ensure equitable access to recovery support.

Business Service Manager at VCCI, Katrina Sali, said the grant is designed for businesses that were operational before the 17 December 2024 earthquake and have since been affected.

“Businesses that have been operating for at least 12 months prior to the earthquake, hold both 2024 and 2025 business licences, and maintain an active business account are eligible for this grant,” she said.

“Small-sized enterprises are also required to be registered for VAT and VNPF during the 2024 and 2025 fiscal years to qualify.”

Ms Sali further explained that businesses can access the application form online through the BLP website and that funding will be allocated strictly to activities that directly support recovery and growth.

“Expenditures such as loan repayments or routine operational costs that are not part of an approved recovery plan will not be considered,” she said.