Our Work

At The Cherry Tree Trust, we believe that entrepreneurship is one of the most powerful tools for economic empowerment. Since 2011, we have been bridging the gap for small and micro-businesses in Barbados that lack access to traditional banking.

We provide low-interest, unsecured “character loans” to entrepreneurs who demonstrate promise, integrity, and grit, but who might not have formal collateral or financial history.

But we do not just hand over a cheque and wish them luck. Every approved applicant becomes a beneficiary, paired with an experienced mentor who walks with them on their journey of growth. Our holistic model combines capital, coaching, and community to help small business owners navigate challenges, sharpen their skills, and unlock sustainable success.

We are not just funding businesses, we are building futures.

“Every stat is a story of a real person who dared to dream, and found support when it mattered most.”
A line graph with a black background showing data trends, overlaid with a red plant-like illustration intertwined with the lines.

Impact Stats

Here is what progress looks like, in numbers:

  • 100+ loans disbursed to entrepreneurs across Barbados

  • $750,000+ BBD in direct economic injection to underserved communities

  • 22 active mentors, including experts in finance, law, tech, and marketing

  • 85% mentorship engagement rate over 18-month cycles

  • 0% collateral required, just character and commitment

  • 60%+ of beneficiaries report revenue growth within 12 months

  • 100% of loan recipients required to participate in business mentorship

Programmes

  • Our loan programme provides unsecured, low-interest character loans to small and micro-businesses with high potential. Applicants go through a vetting process focused on their character and commitment because we back people, not just spreadsheets.

  • A cornerstone of our model. Approved beneficiaries are matched with seasoned mentors from various professional backgrounds. For 18 months, these mentors provide guidance, accountability, and practical advice to help entrepreneurs thrive.

    • Minimum mentor participation: 2 years

    • Mentorship is mandatory for loan recipients

    • Evaluated via a custom scorecard system for performance tracking

  • Beyond funding, we empower entrepreneurs with access to business templates, workshops, peer learning, and one-on-one check-ins with our team and mentors.

Curious what your repayments might look like?

Our easy-to-use loan calculator helps you estimate your monthly repayments based on your approved loan amount and terms. It is designed to help you plan responsibly and understand your financial commitment upfront.

This tool is for illustrative purposes only. Final terms are shared during the loan agreement process.

Learn How to Apply

FAQs

  • Barbadian residents with a viable small or micro-business idea or an existing business in need of capital are welcome to apply. We especially support underserved entrepreneurs who may not qualify through traditional banks.

  • No. Our loans are unsecured. We assess applications based on business acumen, trustworthiness, and the potential for sustainable growth.

  • Yes. Participation in our mentorship programme is a mandatory condition of loan approval. Your mentor will support your journey and evaluate key development milestones.

  • Loan amounts vary depending on business needs, but typically range from $5,000 to $25,000 BBD. Each application is individually assessed.

  • Repayment period is typically up to 5 years with low interest rates. Your repayment schedule will be customized to your business capacity.

  • Absolutely. We are always looking for qualified professionals to support our beneficiaries. If you have experience in entrepreneurship, finance, law, marketing, or tech, get in touch, we would love to connect.

Contact us

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can not wait to hear from you!