BIG IDEAS. BOLD IMPACT.
A $200K Impact challenge to launch bold, ocean-driven ideas that protect, uplift, and transform the Virgin Islands.
Phase II Underway August 1 - 30
•
Phase II Underway August 1 - 30 •
Thank you!
A big thank you to everyone who submitted an Initial Assessment Form for the 2025 Impact Challenge, powered by The VI Purpose Fund. The deadline to submit Phase 1 was August 1, 2025.
All eligible candidates will receive an invitation via email to move forward to Phase II of the application process no later than August 2, 2025. This invitation will include everything they need to complete the next step - including access to the full Phase II application and support resources.
Phase II applications will be reviewed by an independent Application Review and Selection Committee. From there, 6 to 10 Semi-Finalists will be selected to advance to the final stage of the challenge: The Pitch Event, happening on November 4th at Necker Island.
Stay tuned for exciting updates! Follow Unite BVI’s social channels and check back here on the website as we move forward in this inspiring journey!
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 1
Finalists Announced
-
![]()
Early November
LIVE Pitch Event on Necker Island – Awardees Announced!
Phase III of Application: Pitch Event, Awards & Acceleration
