Access Financial Services Limited (AFS), one of Jamaica’s leading microfinance institutions, officially launched its 25th anniversary celebrations with a thanksgiving service at the Mandeville New Testament Church of God on Sunday, September 7. 

The event marked the start of a month-long series of activities under the theme, ‘Celebrating 25 Years of Pioneering Growth in the Microfinance Sector’. The microlender’s 25th anniversary celebrations include a series of key activities reflecting a stated commitment to both business growth and community impact. 

Since its launch in May, the Access Hope community initiative has invested $6.25 million in 25 community projects, including schools, community centres, and business development. Also, the company has launched the AFS Marcus James Scholarship for Entrepreneurship, a $750,000 annual award, to support students pursuing a business or entrepreneurship degree. 

Promotion and gala awards

As it looks to the next 25 years, AFS continues to position itself as a catalyst for economic empowerment and social transformation across Jamaica. For its customers, AFS has been running a promotion aimed at interest relief. 

Under the Lucky Loans Promotion, a total of 300 customers will receive a 25% discount on their loan interest or pay absolutely no interest if they are selected as grand prize winners. The anniversary celebrations will culminate with a gala and awards ceremony on September 20, honouring employees, pioneering customers, and women business owners who have made significant contributions to their communities.

Since AFS was established in 2000, it has transformed the financial landscape for underserved Jamaicans, providing same-day-approved personal and business loans to individuals and small businesses that traditional banks often overlook. Today, the company operates 17 branches nationwide, employs nearly 200 staff, and manages $8.11 billion in assets. 

Reflecting on the milestone, Chief Executive Officer, Hugh Campbell, commented, “For 25 years, Access Financial Services has empowered Jamaicans to grow their businesses, achieve personal goals, and strengthen communities. This anniversary is not just about celebrating our success; it’s about celebrating the thousands of customers whose dreams we have helped to make possible. When communities thrive, Jamaica thrives, and we are so proud to have been part of the development of this country for a quarter of a century.”

AFS has received high praise from customers and partners, including Jamaica Business Development Corporation Acting Chief Executive Officer, Harold Davis, who applauded the entity’s consistent demonstration of support for the small business sector, saying, “I offer my heartfelt congratulations to the Access Team on this milestone. Twenty-five years of consistent impact in business is no easy feat, and what they have been able to do for MSMEs in this country is commendable.”