KINGSTON, Jamaica, Oct. 25, CMC – The Jamaican government is urging Justices of the Peace (JPs) to assist small business operators affected by Hurricane Melissa in accessing grants under a J$500-million (US$3.1 million) recovery programme.
Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Senator Aubyn Hill, said JPs would play a critical role in verifying the identities and business operations of informal entrepreneurs seeking financial assistance to rebuild their livelihoods.
He said eligible businesses must have employed no more than 20 people before the hurricane and recorded annual sales not exceeding J$75 million.
Successful applicants could receive grants of up to J$350,000, with additional assistance of up to J$100,000 available for replacing damaged tools, equipment and stock.
Hill, addressing a recent virtual session organised by the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, said the Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Restoration Grant Initiative comprises two components.
These are the FASST Biz Grant, which supports hurricane-damaged businesses, and the Tools of Trade Grant, targeting self-employed workers, including barbers, hairdressers, carpenters, masons, gardeners and market vendors.
Applicants seeking assistance under the Tools of Trade programme must obtain verification from two authorised persons confirming their identities and that their businesses were operating before the hurricane.
Apart from JPs, recognised verifiers include parliamentarians, approved industry association presidents and ministers of religion affiliated with recognised church organisations.
“Please show compassion and help those who turn to you for assistance,” Hill told the JPs.
Applications opened on October 6 and will close on November 16, with submissions being accepted online through government platforms, including payout.gov.jm.
Hill urged applicants to have their Taxpayer Registration Numbers (TRNs) and photographic evidence of hurricane damage available when applying.
He also warned against fraudulent schemes, stressing that registration and grant approvals are free of charge.
The minister acknowledged that the J$500-million allocation would not cover all losses suffered by businesses but said it would provide targeted relief to help affected operators resume economic activity.
He said the programme forms part of wider government recovery measures, including fee reductions and loan extensions through the Export-Import Bank of Jamaica.
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