Sowing Empowerment through Entrepreneurial Development (SEED)
Social Intervention & EntrepreneurshipA flagship social intervention initiative by the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services, providing micro-grant funding and specialized skills training to help eligible citizens achieve financial self-sufficiency and build sustainable micro-enterprises.
Programme Objectives
The SEED Programme is structured to empower vulnerable individuals through capacity-building and enterprise creation:
- Facilitate the entry of poor and vulnerable citizens into the competitive micro-business environment.
- Provide targeted assistance to existing clients of the MSDFS to foster independence and resilience.
- Increase public awareness and practical training in micro-entrepreneurship.
- Contribute actively to sustainable poverty eradication across Trinidad and Tobago.
- Deliver practical skills training to enhance candidates' potential for employment or self-employment.
Available Grant Assistance
The programme provides financial support through two primary grant categories:
Micro Business Grant
Up to $15,000.00
Provides essential equipment, machinery, and physical goods required to start or expand a micro-enterprise.
Skills Training Grant
Up to $7,500.00
Facilitates targeted vocational and technical skills training at recognized institutions. Disbursements are made directly to the training provider.
Eligibility Criteria
- Citizens and permanent residents of Trinidad and Tobago.
- Persons 18 years of age or older.
- Financial eligibility criteria – Application of a Standard Means Test.
Documents Required
- Valid National Identification Card
- Birth Certificate
- Proof of Address (Recent Utility Bill)
- Proof of Income for all household members (Job Letter, Payslip, Bank Statement, NIS Letter, etc.)
- Two (2) Letters of Recommendation
- Business Plan (Standard template provided upon application)
- Business Registration
- Training Certificates (if applicable)
- Official Supplier Quotations for requested items