JBDC Embarking On Second Year Of Digital Transition Programme

The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) is set to embark on the second year of its transformative digital transition programme.

This undertaking is aimed at, among other things, assisting in propelling Jamaica into a fully digital economy.

JBDC Chief Executive Officer, Valerie Veira, made the announcement in her remarks delivered during the Digital Jamaica Summit and Showcase, held recently at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston.

Funded by the European Union, the €9.5-million initiative was officially launched in October 2023 to increase equitable access to information and communications technology (ICT) throughout Jamaica, thereby fostering the nation’s transition towards a digital society.

The programme, titled ‘Digital Jamaica’, focuses on two core goals – expanding broadband connectivity across the island and providing essential digital skills training to those in the education and business sectors.

“This marks an exciting new chapter. In year one, we focused on laying the groundwork… getting the tools and programmes right. Now, as we launch year two, we’re ready to roll out hands-on support to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) through workshops, sensitisation sessions and in-field assistance. We are excited to finally be in action,” Ms. Veira said.

Over the next two years, the JBDC, in collaboration with its parent ministry, the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, will drive the digital transformation of MSME service delivery islandwide.

The initiative will equip businesses with the necessary resources to digitise and streamline their operations, ensuring improved competitiveness and sustainable growth in a digital economy.

The goal of the programme is to facilitate the issuance of 2,700 certificates of completion to MSME participants over the 2024-2026 fiscal years.

It additionally aims to ensure that 500 beneficiaries digitally transform at least one internal business process by the end of fiscal year 2025/26.

The training exercise will follow a structured approach that supports digitisation, digitalisation and full digital transformation, based on the unique needs of each enterprise.

Resource materials, including tailored curricula and training manuals, will facilitate this journey, helping MSMEs build digital capabilities that foster job creation and national economic growth.

By bridging the digital divide, especially in rural areas, the Digital Jamaica programme will contribute to Jamaica’s broader national digital plan of paving the way for technological innovation and enhanced access to education.

The JBDC and its partners remain committed to providing Jamaica’s businesses with the tools they need to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.