TTAL Disburses Over $1.7M in TAUP and Phase 2 TARG Payments for Upgrades in the Local Tourist Accommodation Sector
Posted Nov 11, 2025
On the heels of a successful showcase at World Travel Market (WTM) London 2025 from November 4th – 6th, the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL) continued its mission of elevating Tobago’s tourism sector with the disbursement of $1,732,078.59 in financial reimbursements and grant payments to four (4) local tourist accommodation providers.
These payments were made under two key developmental initiatives administered by the Agency – the Tourism Accommodation Upgrade Project (TAUP) and Phase 2 of the Tourism Accommodation Relief Grant (Phase 2 TARG) programme. Both initiatives demonstrate TTAL’s steadfast commitment to supporting Tobago’s accommodation sector in achieving higher standards of quality, sustainability, and competitiveness.
The TAUP, a Cabinet-approved incentive, provides partial reimbursement grants to eligible accommodation providers for infrastructural improvements that enhance the overall visitor experience. In Tobago, TTAL’s administration of this programme has strengthened hospitality standards and supported the island’s transition towards a more resilient and sustainable tourism industry. Similarly, the Phase 2 TARG programme has delivered vital financial relief to Tobago’s accommodation sector, supporting operators in maintaining the standards of the destination.
The presentation, held on Tuesday, recognized the efforts of Crown Point Beach Hotel, Shepherd’s Inn Tobago, Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort, and Sparkle’s B Lovely Events and Accommodation – each demonstrating exceptional dedication to elevating their guest experiences through significant property enhancements.
Among the notable upgrades made possible through these initiatives were:
- Shepherd’s Inn Tobago: Installation of solar energy and waste management systems, reinforcing the property’s commitment to sustainability;
- Crown Point Beach Hotel: Refurbishment of tennis court facilities, roof infrastructure, and cabanas, enhancing both comfort and aesthetics;
- Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort and Sparkle’s B Lovely Events and Accommodation: Significant improvements to health and safety systems, further strengthening guest confidence and operational excellence.
At the presentation ceremony, Councillor Tashia Grace Burris, Secretary for Tourism, Culture, Antiquities and Transportation (DOTCAT), underscored the strategic importance of these investments in enhancing Tobago’s competitiveness:
"Essentially, what we want to be able to communicate to the rest of the region and to the rest of the world is that Tobago is ready to get into the game. In order for us to do this, we need to bring our rooms up to 4- and 5-star standards because that’s the minimum standard most travellers are expecting. We also have to look at our attractions, not just the ones that currently exist, but new attractions we can put in place."
Emphasizing the continued prioritization of these efforts in the coming year, Councillor Burris underscored that at the core of Tobago’s tourism advancement lies a collective responsibility between the public and private sectors to showcase the island’s one-of-a-kind offerings – from its vibrant culture and rich heritage to its authentic stories – where every stakeholder plays a vital role in advancing the destination. In a direct call to action, she said:
"You are responsible for being the champions of the destination. Not just the THA, not just the TTAL, but each and every one of you has to be the biggest brand ambassadors for the destination."
Through continued collaboration, TTAL remains committed to uplifting the island’s tourism infrastructure, supporting industry stakeholders, and ensuring that every visitor encounter reflects Tobago’s unspoilt charm and truly Beyond Ordinary experiences.
Photos from the presentation ceremony on Tuesday November 11, 2025, at the Scarborough Office of the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL):
