Tech Beach Retreat (TBR), the premier technology and innovation platform founded in Jamaica, has cancelled its flagship event, originally scheduled for December 3–5. 

The decision follows the unprecedented devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, now recognised as the joint-strongest hurricane to make landfall in the Atlantic Basin.

The storm has resulted in catastrophic loss across Jamaica, with Prime Minister Andrew Holness reporting more than US$8.8 billion in infrastructure damage and the destruction of over 160,000 homes. For context, Jamaica’s GDP stands just above US$19 billion, underscoring the scale of the crisis and the long-term recovery ahead.

“Jamaica is enduring one of the most challenging moments in its history,” said Kirk-Anthony Hamilton, CEO and director of Tech Beach Retreat Inc. “The suffering, displacement, and loss experienced across the island have made it clear that our focus must shift entirely to supporting national recovery efforts. As difficult as this decision is, it is the right one for Jamaica.”

A platform rooted in Jamaica’s progress

Tech Beach Retreat was founded on the belief that the Caribbean deserves global platforms that elevate local talent, connect the region to global opportunities, and strengthen innovation ecosystems. The idea was first articulated by Hamilton in a 2014 Jamaica Gleaner article and later developed in partnership with the World Bank and key regional stakeholders in 2015. The inaugural TBR event launched in 2016 and has since grown into one of the Caribbean’s most influential convenings at the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and investment.

“The mission of TBR has always been to bring people, resources, and global networks together,” Hamilton said. “Those same ingredients are exactly what Jamaica needs now.”

Mobilising relief and recovery

In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, TBR’s Jamaica-based team and its advisors have shifted their efforts toward immediate relief and long-term rebuilding. Their work on the ground includes packing and distributing thousands of care packages across affected communities, coordinating the arrival and distribution of supplies from international partners, and contributing to early rebuilding efforts in areas hit hardest by the storm.

TBR is also advancing several technology-enabled recovery initiatives. In collaboration with HPS (Morocco), the organisation is deploying Starlink units and generators to restore connectivity and power in cut-off communities. Working alongside Mobeus and teams from Google, TBR is developing digital crisis-management and control-centre capabilities designed to strengthen Jamaica’s national coordination framework during the recovery period. In addition, the organisation is preparing two donated humanitarian cargo flights from Miami that will deliver essential supplies to communities in need.

“These partnerships reflect our commitment to supporting Jamaica through technology, innovation, and human-centred impact,” said Hamilton.

Support pathways open

Tech Beach Retreat is actively engaging global partners who wish to contribute to the recovery effort. The organisation is accepting contributions with no administrative fees, and tax-exempt donations can be made through American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) and Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), both registered 501(c)(3) entities.

Individuals or organisations interested in contributing can contact [email protected].

TBR has also begun issuing refunds for prepaid packages, with several participants opting to convert their packages into direct support for relief efforts. “We are deeply grateful to those who have chosen to stand with Jamaica during this time,” Hamilton noted.

Global partners rally in support

Hamilton expressed appreciation for team members from a number of global partners who have stepped forward in solidarity, including Google, HPS, Visa, Supreme Ventures, Jamaica Tourist Board, Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, Development Bank of Jamaica, Caribbean Development Bank, Unit Trust Corporation, Republic Bank, CAF, Phase 3, and the SANS Institute.

Looking ahead

“Jamaica is resilient — we bend, but we do not break,” Hamilton said. “Our country will recover, and our platform will continue to serve its purpose. Jamaica will return stronger, bolder, and more impactful than ever.”