BIG IDEAS. BOLD IMPACT.

A $200K Impact challenge to launch bold, ocean-driven ideas that protect, uplift, and transform the Virgin Islands.

2025 Impact Challenge Winners!

Hubert Akeem Lennard - Block Works VI

Block Works VI is reviving concrete block and paver manufacturing in the Virgin Islands with an eco-friendly twist, utilising recycled glass sand in ASTM-standard mixes.  By producing high-quality materials locally, the company reduces import dependence and supports a circular economy that cuts waste and helps protect coastlines.  Founder Hubert Akeem Lennard is an eco-entrepreneur from Virgin Gorda with over 12 years of experience and the founder of Greencrete VI.  He is leading the effort to pair durability with measurable environmental impact.

Kendyl Berna and Chris Juredin -
Report the Reef

Report the Reef is a new digital platform designed to collect, verify, and visualise coral and marine ecosystem data across the Virgin Islands. By connecting divers, scientists, and conservation groups, the platform transforms real-time field data into stories and visual reports that inspire action and inform policy to protect ocean health. Building on years of work creating artificial reefs, tracking sharks and whales, and removing ghost gear, the team will document ocean change and community action to drive awareness, behaviour shift, and support for reef recovery. Berna is a marine conservationist and filmmaker; Juredin is a commercial diver and long-time BVI resident.     

What’s Your bold idea?

The Virgin Islands is more ocean than land, and our future depends on how we care for it.

In this powerful short video, our Impact Investors, Sir Richard Branson and Rick Kearney, share why they’ve joined forces with Unite BVI to launch the 2025 Impact Challenge. It’s a rallying cry for entrepreneurs, dreamers, and changemakers to bring forward regenerative, sustainable business ideas that protect our marine environment and help build a stronger local economy.

Whether it’s restoring coastlines, revolutionising fisheries, or transforming eco-waste, we believe the next big idea can come from right here in the BVI.

Watch the video and ask yourself - what’s your bold idea?

This is your invitation to reimagine what's possible for the Virgin Islands.

Dive into the 2025 Impact Challenge: a business innovation competition powered by the VI Purpose Fund to launch bold ideas that protect our ocean, build resilient communities, and scale the Blue Economy.

The Challenge

We’re looking for bold ideas that are measurable, achievable, and built to grow. A total of up to $200,000 in funding is available, which may be awarded to one standout venture or distributed across multiple winners. All selected ventures will also receive a full year of business incubation and acceleration support to help turn great ideas into lasting impact.

“A healthy ocean is our most important ally in the fight against the impacts of climate change.”

– Richard Branson

Why Now?

With over 90% of the Virgin Islands made up of ocean, climate change and marine degradation threaten our livelihoods. This is our moment to lead.

Eco-Tourism

Sustainable Fisheries

Eco-Waste Management

Coastal Resilience

TIMELINE HIGHLIGHTS

  • June 1

    Applications Open

  • Now August 1

    Deadline for Initial Assessments

    Phase I of Application: Initial Assessment & Shortlisting

  • August 1 - 30

    Semi-Finalists Advance

  • September 1

    Semi-Finalists Submit Business Plan, Financial Forecast & Impact Projection

    Phase II of Application: Full Application & Finalist Selection

  • October 10

    Finalists Announced

  • Early November

    LIVE Pitch Event on Necker Island – Awardees Announced!

    Phase III of Application: Pitch Event, Awards & Acceleration

a bold new wave of innovation shaping the future of our ocean and economy.