About Us

Caribbean Basin Development Bank (CBDB)

Our History

  • Founding Vision: The Caribbean Basin Development Bank (CBDB) was established with the vision of fostering sustainable economic growth and development within the Caribbean Basin. Recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities in the region, CBDB was created as a financial catalyst to drive change and progress.
  • Evolution and Milestones: Over the years, CBDB has evolved, marking significant milestones in its journey. From funding small-scale local projects to facilitating large-scale international investments, CBDB’s history is a testament to its adaptability and commitment to the region’s development.
A little African girl acting the role of a construction engineer and architect with a safety helmet on her head, a pen in her hand, and a smartphone in her hand on a construction site

Our Objectives

  • Economic Development and Stability: At the heart of CBDB’s mission is the promotion of economic development and stability in the Caribbean Basin. This includes supporting projects that enhance trade, infrastructure, and energy independence.
  • Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Aligning with global SDGs, CBDB focuses on projects that are environmentally sustainable, promote social equity, and foster economic inclusivity.
  • Innovation and Technology: Emphasizing the importance of innovation, CBDB encourages projects that leverage new technologies for sustainable development, particularly in the fields of renewable energy and digital infrastructure.

Our Approach

  • Collaborative Partnerships: CBDB believes in the power of partnerships. Collaborating with governments, private entities, and international organizations, CBDB works to pool resources, expertise, and efforts for greater impact.
  • Community-Centric Projects: Understanding the diverse needs of the Caribbean communities, CBDB ensures that its projects are community-centric, addressing local needs and harnessing local talents and resources.

Relationship with SourceEnergy Group

  • Strategic Partnership: SourceEnergy Group has been a key strategic partner for CBDB. Sharing a common vision for sustainable development, this partnership synergizes the financial capabilities of CBDB with the technical and innovative expertise of SourceEnergy Group.
  • Joint Initiatives: Together, CBDB and SourceEnergy Group have embarked on several initiatives, particularly in renewable energy and community development projects. These initiatives reflect a joint commitment to leveraging energy and technology for economic and social betterment.
  • Future Collaborations: Looking ahead, CBDB and SourceEnergy Group are committed to deepening this partnership, exploring new avenues for collaboration that align with the Wealth Ecology Model – integrating energy solutions, technology advancements, community development, and educational initiatives for a sustainable future.

Key Team Members

Dr. Oliver E. Jones, Chairman

  • Background: As the founder and visionary behind CBDB, Dr. Oliver E. Jones brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in sustainable development and finance. With an extensive academic and professional background, Dr. Jones has been instrumental in shaping the strategic direction of CBDB.
  • Role and Contribution: As Chairman, Dr. Jones oversees the bank’s governance and strategic planning. His leadership is characterized by a commitment to the Wealth Ecology Model, ensuring that all CBDB initiatives foster sustainable and equitable growth in the Caribbean Basin.

Mr. Esmond McLean, President

  • Background: Mr. McLean is a seasoned professional in international banking and finance. His expertise lies in developing financial strategies that drive growth and stability.
  • Role and Contribution: As President, Mr. McLean is responsible for the day-to-day operations of CBDB. He plays a critical role in executing the bank’s strategic plans and ensuring operational excellence.

Ramiro Riobo Guerrero, LATAM Operations

  • Background: Ramiro Riobó Guerrero is the Head of LATAM Operations at the Caribbean Basin Development Bank (CBDB), where he plays a pivotal role in driving economic development and stability in the Latin American and Caribbean regions. With a strong background in financial operations and strategic management, Ramiro is dedicated to spearheading initiatives that promote sustainable growth, renewable energy, and infrastructure development across the region.
  • Role and Contribution: As Head of LATAM Operation, Mr Guarrero plays a pivotal role in driving economic development and stability in the Latin American and Caribbean regions. With a strong background in financial operations and strategic management, Ramiro is dedicated to spearheading initiatives that promote sustainable growth, renewable energy, and infrastructure development across the region.
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Dr. Reginal Parker, Board Member

  • Background: Dr. Parker is an expert in renewable energy and sustainable technologies. His academic and professional journey has been focused on harnessing technology for environmental and social good.
  • Role and Contribution: On the board, Dr. Parker provides invaluable insight into renewable energy projects. His expertise guides the bank in making informed decisions about sustainable energy investments.

Mr. Clive Fagan, Board Member

  • Background: With a strong background in Caribbean economic development, Mr. Fagan brings a deep understanding of the region’s economic landscape and challenges.
  • Role and Contribution: As a Board Member, Mr. Fagan offers strategic advice on regional economic trends and development opportunities. His knowledge is key in aligning CBDB’s initiatives with the needs of the Caribbean Basin.

Dr. Amhad Glover, Board Member

  • Background: Mr. Glover is recognized for his expertise in community development and social entrepreneurship. His career has been dedicated to creating impactful community-centric projects.
  • Role and Contribution: On the board, Mr. Glover focuses on ensuring that CBDB’s projects are not only economically viable but also socially beneficial. His perspective is vital in driving community-focused initiatives.

Mr. Choon Wee Tan, Board Member

  • Background: Mr. Tan Manages the Investment Portfolio of Singapore based Advanced Capital Fund and Advises SourceEnergy Fund Portfolio. Mr. Tan has over 3 decades of Investment Experiences in Capital Markets and has held significant roles with major banks and stockbroking firms since 1991.
  • Role and Contribution: On the board, Mr. Tan focuses on ensuring that CBDB’s equity partnership are structurally sound. His perspective in capital management initiatives.

About Us: The Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) and Our Role

Tortola, British Virgin Islands BVI
Manchester, Jamaica
Santiago, Chile

Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI)

The Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) is a pivotal aspect of U.S. economic relations with the Caribbean region. Initiated in 1983 with the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA), the CBI aims to foster stable economies in the Caribbean Basin by offering beneficiary countries duty-free access to the U.S. market for most goods. This is the foundation and cornerstone of the CBDB.

Historical Context and Expansions

  • CBERA (1983): Implemented on January 1, 1984, CBERA marked the beginning of the CBI, with no set expiration date.
  • Expansion through CBTPA (2000): The U.S.-Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA) extended the initiative, currently scheduled to expire on September 30, 2030.
  • Further Expansion (2002): The Trade Act of 2002 continued the expansion of the CBI.

Beneficiary Countries

  • The CBERA includes 17 beneficiary countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, British Virgin Islands, Curacao, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago.
  • Eight of these, namely Barbados, Belize, Curacao, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago, are also beneficiaries under the CBTPA.
  • We built CBDB on the foundation of these agreements #Activation

Our Role in the Context of the CBI At the Caribbean Basin Development Bank, we recognize the importance of the CBI as a foundation for economic development and trade in the Caribbean Basin. Our initiatives and projects are designed to complement and build upon the framework established by the CBI. By aligning our efforts with the goals of the CBI, we aim to further enhance economic stability, growth, and diversification in the region.

Our work, grounded in the Wealth Ecology Model, focuses on integrating energy, technology, community, and education into every project. We strive to ensure that our endeavors not only align with the trade and economic goals of the CBI but also contribute to a sustainable and equitable development of the Caribbean Basin.