There has never been a better time to invest in St Kitts and Nevis. Here’s why

The stunning islands of St Kitts & Nevis have always been dedicated to safeguarding its residents’ future, with a variety of funds available for businesses and communities. Now, the government is aiming to entice foreign investors with new rules and guidelines for the country’s popular Citizenship by Investment programme. After the Hurricane Relief Fund initiative ended at the end of March 2018, the government launched the , aiming to invest in sustainable living on the islands.

The scheme will benefit all citizens and residents, as well as tourists, in areas that include healthcare, education, tourism, and even alternative energy. Those who invest through the Sustainable Growth Fund automatically qualify for a St Kitts and Nevis citizenship and passport, allowing them to enjoy better perks than ever before.

The Sustainable Growth Fund is focused on green initiatives

With a stronger focus on sustainability than ever before, going green is at the forefront of many campaigns around the world. Following on from President Trump’s decision to exit the Paris climate agreement, more cities, states, and companies have taken their own steps to minimise greenhouse gas emissions. The St Kitts & Nevis government is one of them.

The Caribbean twin-island country historically relied on fossil fuels for energy, but it has since turned to green energy in order to preserve its natural beauty while minimising its carbon footprint. Wind and solar farms currently supply energy around Nevis Island, as well as the St. Christopher Air, Sea and Ports Authority, and the country is looking into harnessing geothermal energy, similar to neighbouring Dominica’s efforts.  

With more funding through the Sustainable Growth Fund, St Kitts & Nevis will be able to invest even more in renewable energy sources, minimising the country’s impact on global warming. Being at the forefront of green energy in the region can also encourage other countries and islands in the Caribbean to follow suit, minimising the carbon footprint of the entire region, and offering entrepreneurs the chance to invest in a world-leading green energy region.

These investments benefit the St Kitts & Nevis community

As the green energy industry rises in St Kitts & Nevis, so does the opportunity to create more jobs. For example, having more solar panels or wind turbines around the island will require people to know how to install and maintain them. These roles require specific skill sets, which means education will be improved in turn. Investments will also go towards funding school construction, as well as other education related initiatives including equipment, bursaries and grants. All of this will encourage children and young adults to stay in school, providing a richer economy and community.

The government is also dedicated to helping small and medium businesses thrive in St Kitts & Nevis, with tax benefits, loans, and technical assistance available to entrepreneurs. Currently, the government offers the successful Fresh Start Programme, which helps fund the growth of start-ups, as well as small and medium businesses.

In 2017, the Prime Minister announced that over 500 businesses benefited from the programme, with over $33 million being dispersed amongst the companies. More investments into the local community and governments will offer more opportunities for these businesses to see success. Allowing businesses to grow within the country gives entrepreneurs the chance to create more jobs for the community, further enhancing and enriching the economy.

The St Kitts & Nevis tourism industry will flourish

Along with adopting more green living around the country, St Kitts & Nevis can also profit from the sustainable tourism industry. St Kitts & Nevis is already working towards promoting this even further, and in September 2017 it hosted the Climate Smart Sustainable Tourism Forum. By ensuring that the natural landscapes are safeguarded from pollution, St Kitts & Nevis can attract more tourists looking for a luxury, pristine getaway to the stunning Caribbean islands.

Tourists and locals alike will be able to take in the breath-taking views on the St Kitts Scenic Railway, while catching glimpses of the historic landmarks the country has to offer, such as the Brimstone Hill Fortress and the National Park. With the picturesque views of the lush Central Forest Reserve National Park, visitors will be able to enjoy the view of hundreds of plants and can even peek at the vervet monkeys that call the island home. Thrill seekers have the option of taking on one of the five ziplines across the islands, which are up to 1,000 feet long, as part of the Sky Safari Tour, while those who are simply looking to unwind can enjoy the white, sandy beaches.

With the host of benefits that come with investing in St Kitts & Nevis, now is the time to take advantage of the limited opportunities to invest in this gorgeous Caribbean islands.