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WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS) completed its 26th Annual Invest SMART Conference this November 14th and 15th in Washington, D.C. This year, the conference focused on the vital theme of 'Enabling a Resilient Blue Green Economy'. The green economy is one that enhances human well-being while substantially reducing environmental risks. In a similar vein, the blue economy integrates the ocean and marine resources into this sustainable development framework.
This year’s conference brought together a diverse group of financial experts, government representatives, and key stakeholders to explore solutions to these challenges.
On Day One which was hosted in partnership with the Office of Senator Ben Cardin, Congressman Gregory Meeks and Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, Chair of the Congressional Caribbean Caucus, the focus was on 'Shaping Enabling Policy' in support revitalized and sustainable US Caribbean trade and development policy, in the 2025-2026 sitting of the US Congress.
During these strategic conversations, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, Co-Chair of the Congressional Caribbean Caucus, emphasized the interconnectedness of the Caribbean with the broader North American region. “What happens in the Caribbean affects all of North America,” stated Congresswoman Clarke during the meetings. She further highlighted the pressing need to address economic opportunities and long-term regional challenges by recognizing the Caribbean as an under-explored and undervalued partner.
Speaking from the perspective of indigenous banks in the Caribbean, Wendy Delmar, Executive Director of the Caribbean Association of Banks, addressed the challenges of doing business in the Caribbean by recognizing investors fears of losing money due to financial constants and factors related to climate change. Solutions include establishing safety nets, including disaster insurance and risk mitigation programs, to build investor confidence and regional stability.
The discussions also brought attention to the need to revitalize and strengthen the Congressional Caribbean Caucus. Such revitalization will ensure more coordinated and sustained attention on shared priorities, economic opportunities, and pressing challenges affecting Caribbean nations and their diaspora. The ICS remains committed to fostering these dialogues, strengthening regional partnerships, and advocating for policy solutions that empower the Caribbean through self-reliance.
On Day Two, the focus was 'Doing Business in the Caribbean' outlining the fact that many opportunities existed despite the challenges. Thomas Woodburn of the U.S. Trade and Development Agency pointed out structural inequities—such as outdated GDP-per-capita thresholds—must be reformed to ensure equitable access to vital climate financing. All the other panelists, who are the foremost experts in their fields, agreed. Mark Lambridges of the OAS and Wazim Mowla of the Atlantic Council agreed that there is asymmetry between countries which causes harmonization issues.
During another panel, Rashanda Johnson of the U.S International Development Finance Agency and LaTaunya Darden of the Minority and Women-owned Business Outreach Office of Small Business at the US Export-Import Bank explained several U.S. government programs that can benefit Caribbean nations.
A special feature of the conference, was the launch of LETZFARM, an AI- powered mobile application that empowers farmers to fight against climate change The proposed mobile application aims to provide marginal farmers globally with personalized recommendations and guidance by leveraging various data sources. It integrates real-time weather forecasts, location data, farm-specific details, and a knowledge base of expert advice on sustainable farming practices. By combining these elements, the app creates a comprehensive and tailored guidance system for each farmer, empowering them to make informed decisions, adapt to climate change, secure their livelihoods, and contribute to overall food security and environmental sustainability. and increase crop yields.
In closing, the Invest SMART Conference underscored the immense opportunity for the Caribbean to evolve into a global hub of innovation, collaboration, and sustainable economic development. The conversations and partnerships fostered over these two days set the stage for strategic action through technological innovation, sustainable finance, and global cooperation.While challenges remain, it became clear that with the right policies, investments, and partnerships, the Caribbean could secure a resilient and prosperous future. The Invest SMART Conference continues to play an essential role in bringing together thought leaders and innovators to build a sustainable future for the Caribbean and beyond.
FMI see: https://www.investcaribbean.us
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