J$500m Repair Grants Open for Storm-Hit Shops

• J$500 million programme supports storm recovery
• Damaged business premises qualify for repairs
• Carpenters and masons can replace tools
• Applications close on 16 November

KINGSTON, Jamaica, 7 October 2026. Jamaica has opened a J$500 million recovery programme for hurricane-damaged shops, small commercial premises and self-employed tradespeople. The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce says two grants will support repairs to eligible business premises and replacement of tools, equipment and stock lost during Hurricane Melissa.

Repair grants and trade tools

The FASST Biz Grant offers up to J$350,000 to qualifying micro and small businesses, depending on their sector and workforce. Businesses must have no more than 20 employees and annual turnover of up to J$75 million. A separate J$100,000 Tools of Trade Grant covers eligible self-employed workers, including carpenters, masons, mechanics and gardeners. Applicants cannot receive both grants.

The seven eligible parishes are St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, Hanover, St James, Trelawny, St Ann and Manchester. Businesses seeking support specifically to repair premises must be owner-occupiers. The grant is not a general residential repair programme, and people who rent commercial premises should check their eligibility carefully.

Conditions and deadline

The Ministry says the grants do not reimburse work completed before approval. Approved suppliers are paid on beneficiaries’ behalf rather than providing unrestricted cash. Applications require a taxpayer registration number and evidence of losses. Some small shops may qualify with a municipal trade licence, while self-employed tradespeople need an acceptable verification letter.

Applications opened on 6 October and close on 16 November 2026. Eligibility is checked before approval and funding is not guaranteed. The official Ministry business restoration portal provides the application route and detailed requirements. For property-based businesses, the distinction between repairing an owned shop and replacing equipment is particularly important.

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