Kingston, Jamaica, December 31, 2025
The Development Bank of Jamaica has launched the $10 billion M5 Business Recovery Programme to support businesses impacted by Hurricane Melissa. This initiative provides financial assistance ranging from $20 million to $50 million for eligible enterprises in agriculture, manufacturing, distribution, and tourism. The programme is structured in three phases to address various recovery needs, ensuring immediate relief and long-term support for affected businesses.
Kingston, Jamaica – DBJ Launches $10 Billion M5 Business Recovery Programme
Kingston, Jamaica – The Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) has initiated the M5 Business Recovery Programme, a $10 billion initiative aimed at supporting businesses affected by Hurricane Melissa. The programme offers financial assistance ranging from $20 million to $50 million to eligible enterprises in agriculture, manufacturing, distribution, and tourism sectors.
Programme Details
The M5 Business Recovery Programme is structured into three phases:
- Refinance Window: Provides relief to businesses with existing credit facilities, offering terms adjustments to ease financial burdens.
- Reboot Window: Addresses short-term needs such as inventory replacement and minor infrastructure repairs to restore operations to pre-storm levels.
- Rebuild Window: Supports businesses that have been significantly disrupted, facilitating comprehensive rebuilding efforts.
To expedite recovery, the DBJ has already released $1 billion to approved financial institutions (AFIs) and microfinance institutions (MFIs), enabling them to begin disbursing funds to qualifying businesses immediately. The programme is designed to be rolled out in phases over the next three years, with a total commitment of $10 billion.
Financial Support and Eligibility
Financial products under the programme are tailored to meet both immediate and long-term needs of businesses. Partner institutions are offering loans at an interest rate of 8%, with micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) potentially qualifying for collateral support of up to 80%. The DBJ is collaborating with various stakeholders, including banks, microfinance institutions, and business associations, to ensure effective implementation and reach of the programme.
Background Context
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which caused significant disruptions across multiple sectors, the DBJ recognized the urgent need for a structured recovery plan. The M5 Business Recovery Programme was developed through consultations with the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development, business groups, sector associations, and government partners. This collaborative approach aims to provide comprehensive support to businesses striving to rebuild and enhance their resilience against future challenges.
Key Features of the M5 Business Recovery Programme
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Financial Assistance | Loans ranging from $20 million to $50 million for eligible businesses in agriculture, manufacturing, distribution, and tourism sectors. |
| Programme Phases | Three phases: Refinance Window, Reboot Window, and Rebuild Window, each targeting specific recovery needs. |
| Interest Rate | Loans offered at an interest rate of 8% through partner institutions. |
| Collateral Support | MSMEs may qualify for collateral support of up to 80% to facilitate loan access. |
| Immediate Funding | $1 billion already released to approved financial institutions and microfinance institutions to commence disbursement. |
| Programme Duration | Structured to be rolled out in phases over the next three years, with a total commitment of $10 billion. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the M5 Business Recovery Programme?
The M5 Business Recovery Programme is a $10 billion initiative launched by the Development Bank of Jamaica to support businesses affected by Hurricane Melissa. It offers financial assistance ranging from $20 million to $50 million to eligible enterprises in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, distribution, and tourism.
How is the programme structured?
The programme is divided into three phases: Refinance Window, Reboot Window, and Rebuild Window, each designed to address different levels of business disruption and recovery needs.
What financial support is available?
Partner institutions are offering loans at an interest rate of 8%, with MSMEs potentially qualifying for collateral support of up to 80%. The DBJ has already released $1 billion to approved financial institutions and microfinance institutions to begin disbursing funds immediately.
Who is eligible for assistance?
Businesses in agriculture, manufacturing, distribution, and tourism sectors that have been affected by Hurricane Melissa and meet the criteria set by the DBJ and its partner institutions are eligible to apply for assistance under the programme.
How can businesses apply for the programme?
Interested businesses should contact approved financial institutions and microfinance institutions participating in the programme to inquire about application procedures and eligibility requirements.
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