Jamaica’s barbers, mechanics and cookshop operators who’ve spent the past year replacing tools and patching roofs out of their own pockets are finally getting some help. On October 6 in New Kingston, Industry Minister Senator Aubyn Hill launched a J$500 million Restoration Grant Programme for micro, small and medium-sized businesses still recovering from Hurricane Melissa, the Jamaica Information Service reported.
For a hairdresser whose dryers and chairs were ruined in the storm, that could mean up to J$100,000 to get back to work. That’s the ceiling on the Tools of Trade Grant, which covers self-employed people replacing tools, equipment or stock that was damaged or lost. Bigger operations can apply for the Fasst Biz Grant instead, worth up to J$350,000 for restoring premises, tools and equipment, with the exact amount set by the size and sector of the business.
The list of trades that qualify for Tools of Trade reads like a walk through any Jamaican town square: carpenters, masons, tailors, gardeners, barbers, beauty therapists and more. Fasst Biz is open to businesses with no more than 20 employees and annual turnover of up to J$75 million. The ministry isn’t picking favourites by industry either.
“We’re not focusing on any single sector,” said Dr. Cliff Riley, Director General of the Hazardous Substances Regulatory Authority, who walked through the programme at the launch.
Getting the money takes 2 rounds of checks. Every application is screened and validated automatically first, then inspected in person, so applicants should expect a visit before anything is approved. Approved grants are paid through WiPay rather than by cheque.
The grants won’t cover everything. Assessments carried out in late 2025 found that more than 99% of small businesses in the 7 worst-hit parishes suffered extensive damage, Riley said, with recovery costs ranging from J$500,000 to over J$10 million. With Fasst Biz topping out at J$350,000, many owners will be treating this as a start rather than a full rebuild.
Applications are open now online at payout.gov.jm, at any Rural Agricultural Development Authority office, at Jamaica Business Development Corporation regional offices in Manchester, Montego Bay and Savanna-la-Mar, or at an MIIC Application Drive. Business owners with questions can visit restoration.miic.gov.jm, email melissabizrelief@miic.gov.jm, or call 658-207-6791 or 658-207-1676.
— SS
Stephen Stanberry
