The Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) says 90 new applicants have been awarded grants under the Jamaica Screen Development Initiative (JSDI), amounting to over J$668 million.

With the Bob Marley production rebate that was approved last year, JAMPRO explained that 91 applicants have now been approved under the programme. These projects now move into the contracting phase, marking a significant step in implementing this landmark billion-dollar government initiative to develop Jamaica’s screen-based industries. 

Snapshot of JSDI impact

• 406 applications were received across all categories and genres for loans and grants. 
• 269 applications were evaluated for eligibility, focusing on non-repayable grants to address the sector’s current needs. Loan financing remains a priority with a more sustainable mechanism under review. 
• 90 new applicants have been notified of awards and asked to submit documentation to move forward with contracting. 
• All unsuccessful applicants have been officially notified and will be invited to participate in tailored capacity-building opportunities to support future submissions. 

Minister of Industry and Investment Aubyn Hill stated, “This achievement demonstrates the Government’s commitment to structured investment in Jamaica’s creative talent.  These awardees can now move into production, advancing our strategy to grow the screen-based sector and position Jamaica as a global destination for film and creative industries.”   

Almost 80 per cent of the 90 new awardees have submitted the required documentation, with JAMPRO actively following up with the remaining applicants. During the next phase, draft contracts will be shared, project milestones validated, and contracts signed based on budget availability. With this round of applicants in contract, the full amount under the billion-dollar fund will be allocated with disbursements to start in the coming months.   

JAMPRO president Shullette Cox emphasised, “We are pleased to reach this significant milestone, allowing us to contract and disburse the first round of funding under the billion dollars announced for this industry and we are looking forward to ensuring that the final productions are seen on screens across the globe”.   

What’s next: JSDI training approach

Recognising the value of continuous development for all applicants, both successful and unsuccessful, JAMPRO will roll out targeted training to strengthen the ecosystem of screen-based industries.   

“This phased approach to skills development of our stakeholders underscores our commitment to ensuring that no talent is left behind, and that Jamaica’s screen industries have what they need to succeed globally. Implementing the JSDI has taught us valuable lessons, especially about making the process less onerous, and we are working to improve and add value to industry stakeholders”, shared Jackie Jackson, Film Commissioner.  

As part of this effort, JAMPRO will host a comprehensive debrief and sensitisation workshop with all applicants. Training will then be undertaken, first with those who did not pass the validation or evaluation stages, to build capacity in areas highlighted by assessors, including workshops in key areas such as budgeting, scheduling, and financing. 

Further training will be done with all funding recipients, offering technical masterclasses in development, production, and post-completion skills to ensure that the use of funds awarded is optimised.