The Re-Align Business and Investment Conference, held at the AC Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica and hosted by Entrepreneurial Partner’s, brought together leading financial experts and entrepreneurs from Jamaica and the United States. The conference provided a platform for thought-provoking discussions on achieving economic growth while fostering social harmony in the region. With a focus on practical solutions, the event aimed to unlock Jamaica’s entrepreneurial potential, support small businesses, and address social challenges faced by marginalized communities.
Promoting Affordable Capitalization and Small Enterprises:
One of the key themes of the conference revolved around providing more affordable capitalization options to unleash Jamaica’s innate business talents and scale up existing small enterprises. Presenters emphasized the importance of ensuring access to capital for entrepreneurs, enabling them to grow their businesses and contribute to the country’s economic development. By offering practical strategies and insights, the conference aimed to empower small businesses and fuel economic growth from the grassroots level.
Addressing Social Challenges:
The Re-Align conference showcased social projects that have proven effective in reducing crime rates and providing hope to marginalized youth and communities in inner-city and rural areas. By highlighting these successful initiatives, the event sought to inspire further collaboration between businesses, government agencies, and community organizations. Discussions focused on investing in education, sports, mentoring, and exposure to Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage to create a sense of inclusion and opportunity for young individuals who have been historically marginalized.
Exploring Innovative Business Strategies:
The conference engaged participants in lively deliberations on a range of business topics. Attendees had the opportunity to explore innovative ways of forming and managing businesses while mitigating costs and raising equity. The role of reputable institutions such as the Jamaica Stock Exchange, the Junior Stock Exchange, and the Social Stock Exchange was also emphasized as avenues for raising affordable equity financing. By encouraging entrepreneurs to explore these platforms, the conference aimed to broaden access to capital and foster growth in the business sector.
Overcoming Challenges to Business Development:
The event did not shy away from addressing the challenges hindering business development in Jamaica. Participants delved into the trust deficit that often hampers the formation of partnerships on the island. By acknowledging these obstacles and seeking practical solutions, the conference aimed to create an environment conducive to collaboration and growth. Experts shared insights and strategies to build trust, foster relationships, and overcome barriers to business development.
Inspiring Success Stories:
The conference featured remarkable success stories that served as beacons of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Dr. Trisha Bailey, a Jamaican-born US billionaire and prominent figure in the pharmaceutical and medical equipment industry, shared her personal journey to success. Her story highlighted the importance of thrift, faith, and a relentless focus on building efficient business ventures. Dr. Bailey’s achievements, including being named a finalist for HME Woman of the Year in the USA and having a building named in her honor at the University of Connecticut, showcased the transformative power of determination and dedication.
Incisive and original presentations came from financier Keith Duncan, Group CEO, of Jamaica Money Market Brokers (JMMB) and a former President of the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ) who gave a blueprint of his Project Star Initiative to coordinate social programs to improve lives and create a greater sense of belonging among Jamaica’s marginalized; Jamaica Stock Exchange Managing Director, Dr. Marlene Street Forrest who spoke on the benefits of utilizing the stock market and getting listed on the exchange; while Gordon Swaby, founder of EduFocal Limited, a cutting edge educational and information technology company outlined his path which has led to expansion into the United States and Nigeria.
The Re-Align Business and Investment Conference served as a catalyst for change, offering tangible solutions to the elusive goal of achieving economic growth with social harmony in Jamaica. By providing a platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the conference empowered entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community leaders to make a positive impact. With a focus on affordable capitalization, social projects, and overcoming barriers to business development, the event laid the groundwork for a brighter future, where economic growth and social harmony can thrive hand in hand in Jamaica.
