The Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) is empowering local tech firms through its Export Max programme, with 14 companies receiving export-readiness support to enhance their global presence. These firms specialize in areas such as software development, e-commerce, and digital marketing. The initiative is part of JAMPRO’s broader strategy to establish Jamaica as a competitive hub for tech outsourcing and global service providers.
According to Sonja Linton, Vice President for Exports at JAMPRO, the inclusion of tech firms in the programme is a deliberate effort to help them access international markets. “The global digital services sector is growing, and we see the tremendous economic benefits this can have for Jamaica,” Ms. Linton explained. She noted that Jamaica is transitioning from business process outsourcing (BPO) to the knowledge process outsourcing (KPO) sector, capitalizing on the country’s potential in the tech industry.
The Export Max programme has onboarded a total of 57 companies under Cohort IV, with beneficiaries spanning various sectors including food and beverage, beauty and wellness, and creative industries. These companies will receive support in capacity development, export promotion, and mentorship over a two-year period.
JAMPRO plans to conduct a comprehensive workshop on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance operational efficiency for programme participants. “Technology is here to help persons, particularly entrepreneurs, become more efficient in their operations,” Ms. Linton emphasized.
Launched in 2011, Export Max aims to enhance the competitiveness of Jamaican micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and facilitate export growth. The programme provides interventions such as capacity-building, advocacy, and market penetration support to improve business performance and increase export sales. Cohort IV is being implemented in partnership with the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) and the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA).
Through this collaborative effort, JAMPRO is providing technical support, while JBDC is facilitating targeted capacity-building interventions. JMEA will pair participants with mentors from established entities across various industries, enabling them to benefit from shared services, knowledge, and connections to distributors in targeted markets.
