Scotiabank is reporting the successful completion of its 2024 Scotiabank Vision Achiever (SVA) Programme, which provided support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Jamaica. This year, 25 entrepreneurs benefited from the programme, designed to transform and expand their businesses through comprehensive business education, mentorship, and practical activities. “Since its inception 13 years ago, the Scotiabank Vision Achiever Programme has invested nearly J$100 million in the development of Jamaica’s SME sector, supporting over 350 businesses.
Our commitment to SMEs is unwavering, and we are happy to see the positive impact this programme continues to have on the business community,” Kaysia Johnson Vaughan, director, SME Professional Partnerships, Caribbean North & Central, noted in a release from the company. The 2024 cohort, selected from an initial pool of 40 shortlisted businesses, engaged in a dynamic curriculum that included financial accounting, marketing, operational efficiency, leadership training, and more. This year’s participants represented a diverse range of industries, including Portland’s Finest Seafood Limited, Smart Haves Distributors Limited, Yardie Cosmetics, Premium Country Grown, Prestamo Limited, The Life Store Wellness Boutique, Quintessential Beauty Jamaica Limited, Di Naturals Bulk and Packaging Limited, and Kande’s Delights.
Midas Creative Agency Limited (T/A Digital Danes), The Law Office of Dianne Edwards, Real Answers Limited, Cradle of Life Limited, Paragon Renewable Energy Limited, DayeLight Publishers Limited, Return On Investment Consulting ROIC Limited, and PR Belle Media Limited were also among the participants. Companies including; L Jay Engineering and Business Enterprise Limited, PBAS Limited, The M-One Productions Company Limited, ECRS Consultants Limited, Leah’s Organics & More Company Limited, Dalrich Funeral Arrangements & Supplies and Stanley’s Deep Sea Fishing, round out the 2024 cohort. SPECIAL AWARDS The top three winners of the 2024 programme will be announced at the official closing ceremony on September 11.
These entrepreneurs will be recognised for their outstanding achievements and will share over J$3 million in cash and prizes. The winners will be selected based on their attendance, completion of modular assignments, and ‘real-life’ implementation of practical learnings during the course. The top three winners will each walk away with over J$1 million in prizes, which include a combination of cash awards, business development grants, and marketing support packages designed to further accelerate their business growth.
Additionally, special awards will be given for the Top Entrepreneurial Woman and the People’s Choice Award, further highlighting exceptional performance and community engagement, the release outlined. “Scotiabank is a strong supporter of small businesses, and through several channels and programmes like the Scotiabank Vision Achiever Programme, we aim to help business operators achieve sustainable growth,” said Perrin Gayle, Executive Vice President of Retail and Small Business Banking for Scotiabank. “Through the SVA programme, we continue to demonstrate our commitment to the empowerment of Jamaica’s small and medium-sized enterprises and by extension the overall economy.
” Scotiabank remains dedicated to providing technological solutions, financial advice, and partnerships that drive growth for SMEs. The bank continues to collaborate with key organisations such as the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA), JAMPRO, the PSOJ, the Development Bank of Jamaica, and the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce, among others, to support the ongoing development of the SME sector. “As the 2024 Scotiabank Vision Achiever Programme comes to a close, Scotiabank looks forward to continuing its mission of fostering entrepreneurship and helping Jamaican businesses thrive.
The official closing ceremony on September 11 will mark the culmination of another successful chapter in Scotiabank’s ongoing commitment to the growth and success of small businesses across the island,” the release noted..
