2010-03-11

Jamaica’s Bold New Small Business to be Showcased

A programme to recognise and highlight recently established small businesses and provide them with necessary publicity and support to enhance their operations, was launched on March 2 at the Knutsford Court Hotel in New Kingston.

A partnership between the Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association (JMA) and Continental Baking Company Limited (National Baking), the initiative dubbed: ‘The Bold Ones: New Champions of Manufacturing’ will focus on new and successful businesses that have displayed excellence in their products, having met several criteria in the process.

These include, but are not limited to, being in business for less than seven years; employing five or more persons; is tax compliant; and uses indigenous resources in their production.   

The companies will be provided with the opportunity and assistance to enhance the visibility of their products through avenues such as the Expo Jamaica 2010 trade show, which will be held from June 17 to 20, 2010 at the National Arena in Kingston. A total of 18 companies have been shortlisted, with the final selections to be announced at the end of March.

Speaking at the launch, Minister of State for Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, lauded the effort, noting that it will add to the programmes already being undertaken by the Government to promote Jamaica’s economic development by strengthening the small business sector.

He said that the success of small businesses can help to inspire an entire generation of Jamaican entrepreneurs, who will be proud to have their products read: ‘Made in Jamaica!’

 “You are the bold ones! Through your innovation, enterprise and determination, you can help to turn around this important sector, which is the bedrock if we are going to move forward,” he stated.