GEMS Foundation Extends Application Period for the Phillip Nassief Entrepreneurship Challenge

The GEMS Foundation announces the extension of the application deadline for the 2025 Phillip Nassief Entrepreneurship Challenge to December 6, 2025, providing additional time for entrepreneurs across Dominica to finalize and submit their entries.

This decision was made to allow more entrepreneurs to benefit from this opportunity. Furthermore, in recognition of the busy Creole season, a vibrant period that engages many of the island’s small businesses, particularly those involved in food, hospitality, culture, tourism, and entertainment, the Foundation aims to ensure that these entrepreneurs have a fair and convenient opportunity to participate once the national festivities conclude.

The Phillip Nassief Entrepreneurship Challenge, supported by the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce (DAIC), continues to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation that defined the late Phillip Nassief’s legacy. The initiative seeks to empower and strengthen small businesses within Dominica’s hospitality and tourism value chain, including enterprises in food and beverage, agro-processing, wellness, technology, transportation, marketing, and other related sectors that add value to the local economy.

Following the extended submission period, the Judging Phase will conclude on January 28, 2026, after which seven (7) outstanding applicants will be shortlisted to participate in the final stage — the LIVE Ultimate Pitching Challenge on February 19, 2026. These finalists will benefit from a pitch preparation and mentoring session facilitated by experienced business and innovation professionals to help them refine their presentations and business models before the main event.

The top three winners of the Challenge will receive financial awards of EC$20,000 (1st Place), EC$15,000 (2nd Place), and EC$10,000 (3rd Place) to support their business growth, efficiency, and sustainability.

The GEMS Foundation encourages all applicants who have already started the process to review and complete their submissions, ensuring that all required documents are included by the new deadline. The extension provides an opportunity for entrepreneurs who may have missed the original cutoff to now apply and be part of this empowering journey.