Every scholarship is a ripple of impact—a gesture that reaches far beyond the moment
Caribbean Tourism Organization Scholarship Foundation
Established by the Caribbean Tourism Organization in 1997 to further its commitment to building a globally competitive and sustainable tourism industry, the CTO Scholarship Foundation was formed and registered in New York as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Dedicated to supporting Caribbean nationals pursuing higher education in tourism-related fields, the Foundation has remained steadfast in its mission to invest in the region’s future.
As the Foundation approaches 30 years of supporting tourism through education, we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to impact students across the region and contribute to the heart of Caribbean tourism’s success.
Inspiring the Caribbean’s next generation of tourism leaders—one student at a time.
The Foundation invests in the development of future leaders for Caribbean Tourism.
137+
Scholarships
Countries Represented
25
Dr. Jean Holder, Inaugural Secretary General, Caribbean Tourism Organization, 1989 - 2004
Our Story
Grants
88+
For more than 30 years, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has led the region’s tourism development. Headquartered in Barbados, the CTO works across policy, research, education, and promotion—positioning the Caribbean not just as a destination, but as a vital economic and cultural force.
At the organization’s core was Dr. Jean Holder, the CTO’s first Secretary General and a true pioneer in regional tourism. He served from its founding in 1989 until 2004, laying the groundwork for much of the industry’s growth.
Among his most enduring legacies is the CTO Scholarship Foundation, which he helped establish to invest in Caribbean talent. Dr. Holder believed the future of tourism belonged to those who not only loved the region, but understood how to lead it.
In 1998, the Foundation awarded its first scholarships—sparking a legacy of opportunity. Since then, it has helped hundreds of Caribbean nationals pursue careers that strengthen the region’s tourism industry and global standing.
Today, under the leadership of Secretary General Dona Regis-Prosper, the CTO is entering a new chapter—one defined by sustainability, innovation, and workforce empowerment. With a future-focused lens, the organization continues to evolve to meet the needs of a dynamic, global tourism landscape.
The CTO Scholarship Foundation stands at the heart of that vision—empowering the next generation of Caribbean tourism leaders, one scholar at a time.
Dona Regis-Prosper
Secretary General & CEO
Caribbean Tourism Organization
On behalf of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), I extend our warmest and most sincere congratulations on the remarkable and enduring contributions of the CTO Scholarship Foundation to the future of Caribbean tourism.
For many years, the Foundation has played a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of leaders within our vital industry. By steadfastly supporting education and professional development in tourism and its related fields, you are creating truly meaningful opportunities for young people across our diverse region. These opportunities empower them to not only participate in but also to lead, innovate, and ultimately shape the sustainable growth of Caribbean tourism.
We are particularly encouraged by the recent addition of new scholarships strategically focused on critical areas such as communications, aviation, and tourism marketing. This forward-thinking approach reflects a deep and thoughtful understanding of the evolving landscape of our industry and the specific talent and expertise that will be essential for our continued success and advancement.
I would also like to take this opportunity to commend the dedicated board members and the generous supporters who consistently give so freely of their time, expertise and resources. Your unwavering commitment is the driving force behind the Foundation's impactful work.
Together, through your collective efforts, you are making a profound and lasting impact – not only on the lives and futures of our scholars and their families but also on the long-term prosperity and vibrancy of Caribbean tourism as a whole.
Thank you for your invaluable partnership and your unwavering dedication to the future of our region.
Major Foundation Sponsors
Since 1998 the CTO Scholarship Foundation has provided 88 major scholarships and 137 study grants to deserving Caribbean nationals, amounting to over US $1 million. Over the years, major Foundation sponsors have included American Express, American Airlines, Interval International, Royal Caribbean International, Travel Agent Magazine, LIAT, CTO Chapters worldwide and numerous allied members.
