JBDC Accelerates MSME Digital Transformation under EU-Funded Initiative

• The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) has ramped up efforts to drive the digital transformation of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). At least 500 businesses are set to digitise one internal process this year under the European Union (EU)-funded ‘Digital Jamaica’ Project.
• The three-year initiative, launched in 2023, is managed by the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce and aims to accelerate the adoption of digital solutions across the MSME sector. Targeted areas include e-payments, payroll, human resource systems, customer relationship management software, e-commerce, contracts, invoicing, and vendor management.
• JBDC Acting Chief Executive Officer, Harold Davis, underscored the programme’s role in equipping entrepreneurs with the requisite tools and competencies to navigate and succeed in an increasingly digital marketplace. Mr Davis noted that a survey at the start of the project revealed that only 32% of local MSMEs were comfortable using digital solutions, with the majority of engagement confined to social media platforms. “With the support of the EU, we embarked on the Digital Jamaica Project to move that needle, because it is essential if our MSMEs are to compete internationally and grow sustainably,” he added.
• Chantol Dormer, Manager for JBDC’s Project Management and Research Department, noted that while training remains central to the programme, the current phase is focused on helping MSMEs implement practical solutions to improve their operations.
• In its inaugural year (2024–2025), the Digital Jamaica Project surpassed expectations, training approximately 1,200 entrepreneurs islandwide, well above the initial target of 700. The broader objective is to equip 2,700 MSMEs with the tools and competencies for digitisation, digitalisation, and full digital transformation by 2026.

(Source: JIS)