For many aspiring entrepreneurs and expats eager to start a business in Jamaica, the journey can feel overwhelming without a clear road map. From navigating legal requirements to identifying market opportunities, understanding the steps to start a business is essential. Experts from key government agencies outlined the essential steps to starting and scaling a business, with the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (Jampro) being highlighted as the first stop for those unsure of where to start. Jampro not only directs aspiring entrepreneurs to the right agencies but also helps them navigate the often daunting process of setting up a business.

“Many are deterred from starting a business because they feel they are getting the runaround,” said Conrad Robinson, regional manager of Jampro at a recent Throp X business conference. “We provide an opportunity as the agency to point you in the right direction.”

Jampro also plays a pivotal role in market research, helping entrepreneurs identify opportunities locally and within the diaspora.

“You can’t get rich by selling to three million Jamaicans, so you need to look at a larger market, and the larger market is where you are coming from,” Robinson advised.

He urged entrepreneurs to consider selling Jamaican products abroad but also highlighted potential business opportunities in areas like wellness tourism by creating retreats that showcase Jamaica’s serene and rejuvenating scenery. Agri-business, which involves developing value-added products beyond traditional farming, and creative industries, monetising Jamaica’s music, fashion, and sports tourism.

“Wherever there is a need, there is a solution, and that solution can be monetised,” Robinson said.

For expats, Jampro operates offices in London and New York, making it easier to seek guidance before relocating, they can also check their website. According to Robinson, Jampro’s role is to then point entrepreneurs to the next place they should go, and for those who need a business plan, the next place is the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC). Described as the agency that takes entrepreneurs “from concept to market,” the JBDC offers hands-on support in refining business ideas. From onboarding, the JBDC organises meetings and conducts assessments such as opportunity assessments for unregistered businesses and viability assessments for registered businesses. An action plan is also tailored, giving entrepreneurs a road map to meet key milestones and free capacity-building training programmes like the Fundamentals of Business Programme, which covers customer profiling, financial management, record-keeping, and more.

“There’s no registration fee for assessments, and you can’t afford to have a premium model and not tap into it,” said Charlienna Bailey-Carey of the JBDC.

Most importantly, she says entrepreneurs need to be prepared to handle the challenges that will come, and the agency provides training helping with developing an entrepreneurial mindset.

“Being solution-orientated and growth-focused is key because you will have challenges. What’s the workaround?” she asked rhetorically.

Once the foundation is laid, the icing on the cake is registering the business, which brings us to the Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ). It offers a streamlined process for registering either a business name or a limited liability company. For sole proprietors or partnerships, registering a business name is straightforward. You’ll need to complete a business registration form, which costs $2,500. Required documents include a valid ID, a taxpayer registration number (TRN), and proof of your residential address. However, registering a limited liability company involves more steps and a higher cost of $27,500. You’ll need the following forms: the Business Registration Form, Form 1A (Articles of Incorporation), and a Beneficial Owner Return Form, along with a valid ID for directors or business owners and attached schedules, which detail the company’s governance structure. To simplify the process, the COJ offers an online platform where applicants can check the availability of business names and submit their applications without visiting the office. It is advised to register your business in Jamaica as it provides legal recognition, access to government incentives, and credibility with customers and partners. With agencies like Jampro, JBDC, and COJ offering structured guidance, entrepreneurs have all the tools needed to succeed.

“Starting a business in Jamaica is about identifying opportunities, understanding the market, and being solution-driven,” said Robinson.

ROBINSON…wherever there is a need, there is a solution, and that solution can be monetised.

Moderator Amashika Lorne (left) with panellists (from second left) Kirk Harvey, Tax Administration of Jamaica, Toni-Ann Stewart Alexander, Companies Office of Jamaica; Conrad Robinson, regional manager, Jampro; and Charlienna Bailey-Carey, JBDC, discussing how to start and grow a business in Jamaica.