The Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI) was founded in 1998 and in 2006 we developed the Little Cayman Research Centre (LCRC). Our aim was to provide oceanographic facilities that support key research into coral reef stress and to conduct research at a remote site, largely unaffected by local human and development impacts. Little Cayman, the home of LCRC, harbours some of the most biologically diverse reef systems on earth. The island therefore affords rich opportunities for research to address global issues such as climate change, marine protection, fisheries management and coral reef stress. The Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI) is guided by its mission to conduct and facilitate research, education, outreach and conservation programmes that will sustain marine diversity for future generations. From its inception, CCMI has proven to be a valuable asset in the effort to understand the changing coral reef and tropical marine environments. CCMI programmes provide a solid foundation in education and awareness for students and researchers both in the Caribbean and around the world.