RTPark Community Impact Fund receives $3.6 million grant to launch VI Leap Fund

Government House said on August 4, 2025, that the RTPark Community Impact Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, received a $3.6 million grant to strengthen its infrastructure and launch the VI Leap Fund.

The administration said the fund was intended to expand access to capital for small businesses, entrepreneurs and underserved communities in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and to support development of a certified Community Development Financial Institution.

According to the announcement, the UVI Research and Technology Park established the RTPark Community Impact Fund in 2021 as an independent nonprofit because CDFIs cannot be managed by a government agency. Since 2022, the nonprofit has managed the VI Catalyst Revolving Loan Fund, a $5 million initiative created by Act 8464, the statement said.

Government House said the VI Leap Fund was expected to begin in the fall of 2025. The program was described as rolling out in phases that include a loan program, development services such as technical assistance and financial literacy, and community partnerships.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/governor-bryan-announces-3-6m-grant-to-launch-vi-leap-fund-and-expand-access-to-capital-in-the-usvi/