ScaleItUp: A Boost for Jamaica’s Climate Innovators
The Caribbean Climate Innovation Center (CCIC) is making waves with its final call for applications to the ScaleItUp Accelerator, an exciting eight-week program aimed at helping Jamaican entrepreneurs who are focused on climate solutions. If you’re a budding business owner ready to take your venture to the next level, mark your calendars—applications close on June 30, and the program kicks off in July!
A Launchpad for CleanTech Entrepreneurs
Since its inception in 2014, the CCIC has been a beacon for CleanTech innovation in Jamaica and across 15 CARICOM countries. This latest initiative, in collaboration with the Scientific Research Council (SRC) and supported by the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ), is designed specifically for entrepreneurs eager to grow their climate-smart businesses.
Carlinton Burrell, CEO of the CCIC, emphasizes the importance of this initiative: “At the CCIC, we are investing in entrepreneurs, and we are cultivating the future drivers of the Jamaican economy.” He believes that CleanTech is not just a trend but the engine of a new economy, especially as Jamaica faces the realities of climate change.
What’s in Store for Participants?
The ScaleItUp Accelerator is tailored for high-potential entrepreneurs ready to scale. Up to 18 participants will receive hands-on support, culminating in a Demo Day on September 19, where they’ll pitch their ideas to investors. One lucky entrepreneur will even get the chance to travel to a European innovation hub, opening doors to global connections.
The program includes six key modules, covering everything from business growth strategies to crafting the perfect pitch deck. Sessions will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., in a hybrid format to ensure accessibility for all Jamaican entrepreneurs.
A Community of Support
Participants will benefit from dedicated mentorship sessions, weekly pitch practice, and peer-to-peer support. This community-driven approach is crucial, especially in a landscape where many entrepreneurs face challenges like limited access to investment and insufficient exposure to climate innovation strategies.
Dr. Charah Watson, executive director of the SRC, shares her enthusiasm: “This initiative aligns seamlessly with our mandate to drive innovation and sustainable enterprise. We view this program as a bold step toward strengthening Jamaica’s innovation ecosystem.”
The Bigger Picture
Christopher Brown, program manager at DBJ, highlights the importance of creating an ecosystem where entrepreneurs can thrive. “Through BIGEE, the DBJ is committed to unlocking the ecosystems that allow entrepreneurs to thrive,” he says, emphasizing the role of incubators, accelerators, and funders in this journey.
As Jamaica navigates the complexities of climate change, the ScaleItUp Accelerator aims to empower entrepreneurs to build businesses that not only protect natural resources but also create meaningful jobs.
A Call to Action
Burrell encourages all aspiring entrepreneurs to seize this opportunity: “The ScaleItUp Accelerator is customized for you and packed with the tools, mentorship, and investor access you need to grow smarter and go further.”
So, if you’re ready to make a difference and scale your climate-focused business, don’t miss out on this chance. Could this be the breakthrough your venture has been waiting for?