MIIC Awards J$3 Million in Grants to MSMEs at Westmoreland Business Roadshow

Westmoreland, Jamaica – June 18, 2025: The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC), Jamaica’s Business Ministry, delivered the 8th staging of its flagship MSME Business Roadshow at The Manning’s School in Westmoreland on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. The initiative was delivered in strategic partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and supported by public and private sector sponsors. 

A total of J$3 million in grants was awarded through the Micro and Small Business Pitch Competitions, with five (5) Small Business winners receiving J$400,000 each and five (5) Micro Business winners receiving J$200,000 each. These awards were raised from previous smaller amounts and reflects the Government’s deliberate commitment to supporting business expansion, driving digital adoption, and accelerating Jamaica’s export capacity. The Roadshow attracted approximately 200 MSMEs, representing a wide cross-section of Jamaica’s productive sectors, including arts, manufacturing, craft, ICT services, entertainment, agriculture and agro-processing, professional and technical services, and wholesale and retail trade.  There were 40 separate exhibitors who showcased a wide range of products from fresh farm produce, jewelry, beauty products, agro-processed products and novel ICT services 

Delivering the keynote remark, Senator the Honourable Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, issued a bold call to Jamaican entrepreneurs and business owners: “Micro, small and medium-sized businesses, you are central to Jamaica’s economic future. I encourage every entrepreneur in Westmoreland and across Jamaica to increase your productivity. You must create high-quality goods and services for export, and build strong partnerships with local companies. I invite all to join in this noble national effort to cement our political independence with robust and sustained economic independence.” 

A main feature of the day was the MSME Expo Village, where in addition to the 40 MSMEs showcased their products and services to the public, the Tech Corner allowed 10 businesses to demonstrate digital tools and solutions designed to boost efficiency and competitiveness. Live demonstrations ranging from pottery and canvas painting to handbag crafting and jewelry making highlighted the creativity and economic potential of Westmoreland’s artisans and innovators. 

All 20 agencies and departments under the Ministry were on-site, providing hands-on access to Government services including financing, registration of companies, export readiness, digital support, and training opportunities such as those offered through Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) – one of the Ministry’s agencies – and funded by the EU’s Digital Jamaica Programme. The Roadshow also facilitated targeted B2B networking and engagement with private sector companies, including financial institutions actively seeking to support the MSME community. 

The Westmoreland leg of the Roadshow was delivered with key support from the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ), HEART/NSTA Trust, and the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN). 

The next stop on the MSME Business Roadshow is scheduled for Manchester in July. 

The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, through its 20 agencies and departments, is committed to empowering Jamaican entrepreneurs, driving innovation, and building a competitive economy that delivers lasting prosperity for all Jamaicans.

Source: MIIC