Leading sustainable development through Citizenship by Investment
An article written by Marie-Therese Johnson is the head of Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment Unit (CBIU) for the IM Yearbook 2025.
Established in 1993, Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme has evolved into a vital funding source for projects that enhance social welfare, build resilient infrastructure, and support environmental sustainability.
Dominica’s CBI Programme channels funds directly into climate-adaptive infrastructure, reinforcing the island’s resilience against future disasters.
“The world cannot talk about resilience unless they talk about Dominica,” said Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit.
His administration has spearheaded numerous projects funded by CBI, from sustainable housing to renewable energy and transportation infrastructure. As Skerrit recently emphasised, “We’re not just building back; we’re building back better – creating a Dominica that is stronger, safer, and more prepared for future generations.”
Dominica’s CBI funds have transformed the island, benefiting various aspects of citizens’ lives. Thousands of Dominicans now live in climate-resilient homes designed to withstand hurricanes. Healthcare infrastructure has also improved, with CBI funding modern health centres and hospitals, ensuring high-quality healthcare access. Education initiatives funded through CBI have provided young Dominicans with state-of-the-art schools and training centres.
Among Dominica’s most ambitious CBI-funded initiatives is the construction of its first international airport, now underway.
Dominica is also setting new standards in renewable energy with a geothermal plant that harnesses natural heat to power the island and potentially its neighbours.
The CBI Programme has facilitated impressive eco-friendly resorts and residences, strategically developed to harmonise with the natural environment and boost the local economy.
One notable project is the Dominica Cable Car, set to be the world’s longest detachable system.
Dominica’s CBI Programme has supported local employment and skills development through initiatives like the National Employment Programme, which provides training for careers in ecotourism, renewable energy, and digital services. The Dominica Youth Business Trust fosters entrepreneurship by offering funding and mentorship to young Dominicans.
CBI funds have also played a crucial role in enhancing Dominica’s tourism sector. Investments in ecohotels, protected national parks, and marine reserves make Dominica a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. In 2024, Dominica’s CBI Programme further enhanced its process by introducing a dedicated due diligence unit under the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) to review applications and provide recommendations, ensuring only credible investors are accepted.
CBI funds contribute to Dominica’s ecotourism industry, national parks, and protected marine reserves, all part of the island’s green economy.
Investors in Dominica’s CBI Programme are not only securing a second citizenship but are contributing
to a nation dedicated to sustainability and community welfare.
For those seeking an investment that aligns with both financial goals and ethical commitments, Dominica’s CBI Programme presents a unique opportunity.
“The world cannot talk about resilience unless they talk about Dominica.”
