Matching Grant Support

Financial Empowerment for Growth

Matching Grant Support under the TDRGP in The Gambia

The Matching Grant Support component of the Tourism Diversification and Resilience in The Gambia Project (TDRGP) is a strategic intervention designed to stimulate private sector growth, enhance competitiveness, and strengthen the resilience of tourism value chains. This initiative provides targeted financial assistance to tourism enterprises, community-based operators, and lead firms that demonstrate strong potential for innovation, sustainability, and job creation within The Gambia’s tourism ecosystem.

Objective

The primary objective of the Matching Grant Support is to catalyze private investment in the tourism sector by sharing financial risk between the project and eligible enterprises. Through co-financing arrangements, the support encourages firms to invest in projects that improve service quality, diversify tourism products, promote digital transformation, and ensure environmental sustainability.

Key Focus Areas

• Enhance product diversification, including eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and community-based tourism experiences.

• Support digitalization and innovation, such as adopting e-booking systems, digital marketing, and smart tourism technologies.

• Promote sustainability, with investments in green energy, waste management, and eco-friendly infrastructure.

• Strengthen supply chain linkages, connecting lead firms with MSMEs, local suppliers, and community-based enterprises.

• Build business resilience, through improved financial management, quality assurance, and service excellence.

How the Matching Grant Works

Under the scheme, eligible firms or associations submit proposals for funding. Approved applicants contribute a matching portion (e.g., 40–60%) of the total project cost, demonstrating ownership and commitment. The TDRGP provides the remaining percentage as a non-repayable grant, ensuring mutual investment in growth and sustainability.

Expected Impact

• Strengthen tourism value chains by enabling MSMEs to partner with lead firms.

• Encourage innovation and competitiveness within The Gambia’s tourism sector.

• Boost employment and income opportunities, particularly for women and youth.

• Promote inclusive and sustainable tourism development aligned with national economic diversification goals.