Belize City, Belize: March 4, 2025 – The Development Finance Corporation (DFC) and the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) announce the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on March 4, 2025, aimed at enhancing access to financial solutions that support the growth, competitiveness, and sustainability of Belize’s tourism sector.
The MOU establishes a strategic partnership between the DFC and BTB to develop and implement tailored financial instruments that will enable tourism businesses to expand, modernize, and adopt sustainable practices. The collaboration is a crucial step toward ensuring that Belize remains a premier destination in the global tourism industry while fostering inclusive economic opportunities for local businesses and communities.
A Collaborative Effort for Industry Growth
Through this partnership, DFC will provide specialized financial products, including loans for hotel and tourism infrastructure development, sustainability initiatives, and working capital support for tourism operators. The agreement also includes financing options for transportation sector upgrades, climate resilience projects, and business development loans to improve marketing and competitiveness.
“The tourism industry is a vital pillar of Belize’s economy, and this MOU demonstrates our commitment to providing the financial tools necessary for resilience and continued success,” stated Henry N. Anderson, Chief Executive Officer, DFC. “Through this partnership, we are creating innovative financial solutions that support local businesses, encourage investment, and enhance the overall visitor experience in Belize.”
BTB, as the governing body of Belize’s tourism industry, will play a key role in facilitating industry-specific financial solutions, advocating for tourism businesses, and promoting awareness of financing opportunities. BTB will also collaborate with DFC in capacity-building initiatives, ensuring that tourism operators have access to financial literacy training and support in navigating loan application processes.
“This partnership is a game-changer for Belize’s tourism industry,” stated Evan Tillett, Director of Tourism, BTB. “By working with DFC, we are ensuring that our tourism stakeholders have access to financial support that aligns with the industry’s needs and national economic goals. This initiative will empower businesses to enhance their services, adopt sustainable practices, and contribute to the long-term development of Belize’s tourism sector.”
Driving Sustainable Tourism and Investment
The MOU underscores a shared commitment to sustainability, with financial solutions designed to promote eco-friendly infrastructure, energy-efficient upgrades, and climate resilience. The agreement is set for a five-year period, with provisions for renewal and continuous collaboration to adapt to the evolving needs of the tourism industry.
For more information on the financial solutions available through this partnership, tourism operators and stakeholders are encouraged to contact Mr. R.Lee Vicente, Marketing & Communications Manager, DFC at rlee.vicente@dfcbelize.org or Ms. Simone Bell, Investment and Innovation Specialist, BTB at simone.bell@belizetourismboard.org.
