Grassroots entrepreneurs are crediting the Social Development Commission’s (SDC) Local Economic Development Support Programme (LEDSP), as the driving force behind the success of their businesses. Owner and founder of Nikki’s Spices and more, Rosemarie Johnson and founder of Paradise Blends, Romeo Mitchell are among the nearly 400 grassroots businesses that are receiving vital support annually to grow, formalise and thrive...

The Jamaica Agribusiness Investment Forum (JAIF) 2025, slated for the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St. James, from September 17 to 19, is an opportunity for investors, entrepreneurs and policymakers to come together, collaborate, and “drive forward a shared mission of prosperity and resilience”. This was noted by Deputy Chairman of the Agro-Investment Corporation (AIC), Trisha Williams-Singh, at the recent...

When Nail Technician Charma-kay Barrett began doing nails from the living room of her home in Kingston, she had no idea that in less than seven years, the operation would grow into a viable, registered, tax-compliant business with plans for growth. Her thriving small business was fueled by a grant from the Social Development Commission (SDC), which plays a vital...

The Jamaica National Agency for Accreditation (JANAAC), now trading as JANAAC Global Accreditation, is steadily emerging as a vital engine of regional development, enabling public and private entities across the Caribbean to compete in a globalised economy. As the only internationally recognised accreditation body in the English-speaking Caribbean, JANAAC is leveraging international standards to unlock market access, build confidence in...

The Overseas Employment Programme continues to provide vital opportunities for Jamaicans globally, with 14,350 workers placed in jobs across Canada and the United States in 2024. One such individual is Nicola Herron, who was one of the four persons with disabilities chosen to go on the farmwork programme last year in Canada. A wife and mother of two, she was...

Expo Jamaica 2025 will feature exhibits by 10 information and communications technology (ICT) providers as organisers place greater focus on the technology services sector this year. These export-ready firms, which have benefited from support through the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) Export Max programme, will be connected with relevant international buyers as they seek out new markets. Export Max is designed...

Multifaceted entrepreneur, Sadra Madonna Lindsay, celebrated for her achievements as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Garden Gold Cosmetics and other ventures, is making waves with a ground-breaking new initiative. The gospel recording artiste and author has developed a biblically-guided planner and accompanying journal, designed to help individuals organise their lives with purpose and faith. These recent additions to her portfolio...

The Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority (JSEZA) is on a mission to bolster stakeholder relations and attract more investors islandwide. To this end, Senior Director of Business Partner and Support Services, Licia Grant, told JIS News that the Authority is set to establish an office in western Jamaica during fiscal year 2025/26. “What it means is that we will have...